It probably comes to your mind the proud Scottish highlander in a kilt, but did you know he is wearing a specific type of kilt jacket designed with a particular occasion and fashion style in mind?
Choosing the right kilt jacket to look your best can make all the difference when dressing for formal Highland functions, weddings, or even casually showing off modern kilt jackets.
In this guide, we will help you navigate the different types of kilt jackets so that you may efficiently choose one that suits your needs and character best.
What Makes the Kilt Jacket Important?
The kilt, in and of itself, packs a punch; however, when it is complemented with the appropriate kilt suit jacket, it completes the narrative of heritage, honour, and sophistication.
Just like suits have blazers or tuxedos, kilts have their jacket options. A day kilt jacket, or more formally, a doublet, the kilt jacket sets the tone for the entire Highland ensemble.
A Quick Guide to Different Kilt Jacket Types
Below is a helpful comparison of the most common kilt jacket styles. Each is designed with unique details for various occasions, from rustic gatherings to black-tie events.
🔽 Types of Kilt Jackets: Table Overview
| Jacket Style | Occasion | Highlights |
| Prince Charlie Jacket | Formal (Evening/Wedding) | Tailcoat cut, shiny buttons, worn with a vest |
| Argyll Jacket | Semi-formal | Pocket flaps, cuffs, and open collar friendly |
| Braemar Jacket | Casual/Semi-formal | Simplified Argyll, shorter cut |
| Montrose Doublet | Formal/Traditional | Military-style, lace jabot |
| Kenmore Jacket | Formal but plain | No lapels, clean front |
| Sheriffmuir Doublet | Royal/Heritage | Velvet details, worn with a cravat |
| Tweed Day Jacket | Daytime/Casual | Rustic, tweed fabric |
| Inverness Cape | Outdoors/Parades | Worn over other jackets, a flowing cape |
| Regulation Doublet | Evening/Formal | Belted, sharp shoulders |
| Craigmillar Jacket | Modern Occasions | Blend of tradition and modern suit look |
Types of Kilt Jackets
(For Illustrative Purposes Only)
This is the most well-known kilt suit jacket worn during black-tie functions and weddings. Cut in the shape of a tuxedo, it has shiny buttons and a short cut. This jacket is worn with a three-button waistcoat and bow tie, thus forming part of the evening dress ensemble.
Best For: Weddings, graduations, balls
A true classic. Argyll is the most versatile jacket for Highland wear, it works well for day and evening activities. It has pocket flaps, gauntlet cuffs, and looks good with a necktie or even open collared shirts.
Best For: Semi-formal events
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Braemar Jacket
This is a more recent update to the Argyll, but it is a little toned down. The cuffs are also toned down, making it more appropriate for casual wear.
Best For: Daytime events, casual weddings
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Montrose Doublet
This one is royal and military in appearance because of the high collar and double-breasted front. Worn with a lace jabot instead of a tie, it is formal and traditional.
Most Suitable For: Stately affairs, royal events
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Kenmore Jacket
This jacket has a clean-cut, simple frontal portion that lacks lapels. Kenmore is worn fastened with a belt and waistcoat. Less elaborate than Prince Charlie, but still has formal aspects.
Best For: Heritage events, gatherings celebrating Scottish culture.
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Sheriffmuir Doublet
This is one of the oldest styles of jackets, featuring velvet cuffs and collar. The high neck vest along with the cravat completes the look in a very noble way.
Best For: Formal, historic-themed events
Perfect for wear during outdoor events or for daytime occasions, especially when its chilly outdoors. They come in varying shades of earthy tones and are a perfect match for tartan kilts.
Best For: Highland games, countryside events
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Regulation Doublet
Traditional and very formal, similar to the Montrose but often worn with a waistcoat and belt. Features military button placement and sharp shoulders.
Best For: Gala dinners, evening wear
FAQs – All You Need to Understand Regarding Kilt Jackets
Q1: May I pair a regular suit jacket with a kilt?
Not advisable. Suit jackets are longer and do not work with the kilt’s high waist. Kilt jackets such as Argyll or Prince Charlie are designed to aid the distinctive shape and height of a kilt.
Q2: What is the distinction between a Prince Charlie and an Argyll jacket?
The Prince Charlie is strictly for formal evening wear and is paired with a waistcoat and bow tie. The Argyll jacket is much more flexible and can be used for day or evening functions with a tie or worn open collar style.
Q3: Which jacket is more appropriate for informal gatherings?
For relaxed or daytime functions, a Tweed Day Jacket or Braemar Jacket is preferable. These are less formal, but still Scottish and fashionable.
Q4: Are there contemporary designs for kilt jackets?
Indeed. Designs such as Craigmillar Jacket or a less sophisticated Braemar maintain their Highland touch while providing a neat, modern style.
Q5: Do all kilt jackets include waistcoats?
Not necessarily. Ski jackets such as Prince Charlie or Montrose are usually referred to as with waists, whereas Argyll and Tweed jackets do not include waistcoats, depending on the event and taste.
Final Thoughts
From ceilidhs to weddings, sporting the appropriate kilt jacket is certainly essential. There is a style for everyone, from the laidback feel of a tweed day jacket to the royal charm of the bonnie prince charlie jacket.
Style it the way you prefer; incorporate your tastes. Just don’t forget to wear your jacket with pride.