Wearing traditional attire is a proud moment for all, but choosing the authentic one is a bit difficult. The same is true for Prince Charlie jackets. Many online and traditional outfitters sell these jackets today, but deciding between online and in-person shopping is the concern for many. This blog post is meant to help you make a wise decision. But before finding out the convenient way, let us discuss what makes a Prince Charlie jacket authentic.
What Makes a Prince Charlie Jacket Authentic?
A Prince Charlie jacket is a formal, short, black wool jacket in Highland dress. Scots traditionally wear it at formal and evening events. It is barathea wool-made clothing that features satin lapels, braided epaulets with ornate buttons, and a unique cut. This cut finishes above the waist to show the full length of the kilt and sporran.
Other kilt accessories to pair with this jacket are a matching waistcoat, bow tie, and ghillie brogues. Waistcoats are also very important and cannot be overlooked. Thus, to ensure the authenticity of this apparel, make sure it is made with premium-quality fabrics, and the other accessories should complement it.
How to Buy an Authentic Prince Charlie Jacket
The advancement that our planet witnesses today has made things much easier. Now people don’t visit markets to buy their essentials, but they buy them online, sitting on their couch. On the other hand, traditional businesses are still running.
Which approach should you adopt to buy your next Prince Charlie Jacket? Let us find a solution by overviewing the pros and cons of buying from traditional outfitters and online purchasing.
Buying from Traditional Outfitters
The Pros:
- When you visit a physical store to buy an authentic jacket, you can try it, and it is the most positive aspect.
- In-store experience of buying cultural items helps you make a true mindful decision.
- A team of experts is always there to assist you in choosing the perfect item from multiple perspectives, such as sizing, color selection, and the design.
The Cons:
- Online stores usually do not have much variety to choose from, especially when you are away from Scotland.
- Buying kilt jackets from a store may cost you more bucks, as it includes labor costs and other expenses of the store.
- You can check the design of kilts but limited availability of sizes may be problematic.
Buying Online: The Modern Way
Today, you can buy an authentic Prince Charlie jacket without visiting the market in person. You should thank technology and online stores such as UtilityKilt UK, which pioneered in adopting this innovation. Explore the advantages and disadvantages of buying jackets online.
Advantages of Buying Jackets Online
- While buying a jacket online, you are free to purchase it from any country. You have access to global brands.
- You don’t have to visit the market physically; that saves your time, and you can spend this time on important tasks.
- Online sellers of kilts and jackets often provide customization services. If available sizes do not meet requirements, you can ask the team to modify jackets accordingly.
- Good online brands do not limit their stock to jackets only, but they also provide matching accessories made with premium material.
- Some people may be afraid of scams, but reviews from different people are social proof for the satisfaction of authenticity.
Disadvantages of Buying Jackets Online
- Every brand has its own sizing charts, which can be a confusing factor.
- The quality of different brands may differ from each other. So, it is wise to confirm the weight of the fabric first.
- If you have ordered a jacket online, you may have to wait for a few days to get it.
- In case you get faulty apparel, getting it fixed or changing the jacket can be a lengthy process as well.
What to Look for When Buying Online
Buying a Prince Charlie jacket is not challenging, but a bit of carelessness can cost you in the form of time and money. So, it is essential to note a few things prior to ordering it.
Product photos from multiple angles: Kilt sellers attach the photos of jackets. See all photos from different angles carefully.
Verified customer feedback: Check for authentic feedback from customers in the form of reviews. Similarly, you can approach individuals who already have experience with the same store.
Custom sizing options or alteration support: Make sure whether the store provides customization services or not, as you may have different sizing requirements.
Return policy and delivery timelines: The chances of getting a damaged product remain higher while buying an online jacket. So, knowing the return and exchange policies before ordering a jacket is crucial.
Price Comparison: Online vs. Traditional Outfitters
Traditional outfitters often charge higher prices due to overhead costs like rent, staff, and inventory. On the other hand, online retailers offer more competitive pricing by cutting out these expenses. Furthermore, online stores frequently run promotions and offer discounts on particular occasions. However, keep the shipping costs and potential return fees in front when buying kilt jackets online to get a true price comparison between the two options.
How Utility Kilt UK Bridge the Gap Combining Tradition and Online Convenience
The above discussion favors online buying as more convenient. All brands are not trustworthy, so you should be conscious while choosing a brand. Save your time and visit Utility Kilt UK as we are the most reliable store for buying kilt jackets online. Some of our unique selling points that keep our customers coming back to us are given below.
- Traditional Scottish jackets that we offer are available at very economical price tags.
- UtilityKilt UK has a vast array of kilt jackets that are 100% customized.
- We deliver what we commit to and show in images.
- If the product is faulty at our side, we offer hassle-free return and exchange policies.
- Our shipping partners are trackable, ensuring the safe delivery of your jackets.
- The customer care service of our store remains active 24/7 to guide you.
FAQs About Choosing Authentic Jackets
Can I wear a Prince Charlie jacket casually?
No, Prince Charlie jackets suit formal settings such as weddings, Highland games, and black-tie events only.
How does a Prince Charlie jacket differ from an Argyll jacket?
A Prince Charlie jacket is a short piece of clothing that is a formal evening jacket. It often features shiny buttons and is highly suitable for black-tie events and weddings. On the other hand, an Argyll jacket is a versatile, classic jacket that has pocket flaps and gauntlet cuffs. Being versatile makes them suitable for a broader range of formal, semi-formal, and even casual daytime occasions.
Can women wear Prince Charlie jackets as part of modern Highland wear?
Prince Charlie jackets are primarily associated with men, but they are popular with women as well. Therefore, their use is less frequent in ladies.
Do Prince Charlie jackets come with matching waistcoats or vests?
Absolutely, Prince Charlie jackets have matching waistcoats. Utility Kilt UK offers these vests individually as well.
Is it allowed to wear a belt with Prince Charlie jackets?
No, belts are usually not paired with the Prince Charlie jackets. The waistcoat covers the belt, making it unnecessary. Likewise, the traditional designs of the buckle and dress sporran also clash with each other.
