The Anatomy of a Prince Charlie Jacket: Explore Every Detail

The Prince Charlie jacket is the most popular option to pair with kilts among all Scottish jackets. This distinctively styled jacket is different from others, and in this article, we are going to deconstruct it entirely. Here, we will discuss the anatomy of Prince Charlie jackets and what customizations you can make for a more sophisticated look.

What are Prince Charlie Jackets

The Prince Charlie jacket is a formal Scottish garment traditionally worn with a kilt. The suitable occasions to dress it up are weddings, dances, and other special occasions where dress code matters. It features a highly visible, elegant cut that provides the wearer with a refined appearance.

Moreover, a jacket makes an excellent combination with a waistcoat and bow tie. Its style blends tradition with sophistication, allowing the wearer to appear timeless while still looking naturally well-dressed. If we talk about its colors, it usually has two tones as primary: black and navy blue.

If you need any of these colors, Irish Kilt Shop, proudly offers both colors in the form of a Black Bonnie Prince Charlie Kilt Jacket and a Navy Blue Prince Charlie Kilt Jacket.

Anatomy of Prince Charlie Jackets

Regarding the parts of Prince Charlie jackets, it has several parts just like other apparel. However, its unique structure and traditional style involve a different design, making it special clothing for ceremonial settings.

The Front

The front of the Prince Charlie jacket is what exposes how it looks. Its front is stylish and not closable, which means it does not have opening or closing buttons. Instead, it is paired with a matching vest that has buttons to close. Moreover, you get 3 studs on both sides of the front for sophisticated aesthetics.

Lapels

Another prominent part on its front is a pair of lapels. They exist on the collars of jackets facing each other. Their construction usually involves contrasting materials such as satin or sometimes tartan. It adds an elegance to the overall look of your jacket.

Sleeves

The next part of the formal Scottish jacket is its sleeves. They are often adorned with three non-functional buttons, making them look more attractive. The length of the arms is standard for the average jacket and cuts to the wrist. You should wear it in a way that the cuffs of your shirt are visible.

Epaulettes

You must have noted shoulder straps on various jackets. A Prince Charlie jacket also has these straps known as epaulettes. They also have no function like buttons on arms; in fact, they are decorative ornaments, usually attached with a single button. They aim to enhance the overall looks and offer a stylish appearance to the Prince Charlie Kilt Outfits.

Back Design

When it comes to the back design of these jackets, they have short tails fabricated with 8 silver- or nickel-themed buttons. These buttons are arranged in two rows of 4 items each. Remember, the design of the buttons is the same as that used on other parts such as sleeves, the front, and the vest.

Waistcoat/Vest

The last part of a Prince Charlie jacket is its matching vest, or waistcoat. A popular vest, the “Navy Blue Prince Charlie Vest,” is made with the same fabric as that of the jacket and has the same color as well. It is fabricated with 3 silver buttons on the front and also has two pockets to keep essentials within range. In fact, the jacket itself has two internal pockets.

Customization & Variations

Many people ask whether they can customize their Prince Charlie jackets or not. Remember, the primary design of jackets remains the same as that of traditional tartan kilts. In fact, customizations or variations are possible in their ornaments. We have mentioned some tips below to modify your jacket.

Colors: The variation in its color is the basic thing. They generally do not have many colors, so you can choose from black, midnight navy blue, and bottle green shades.

Materials: Modifications in the fabric used to make jackets are possible. Barathea wool is the primary fabric, while some people blend velvet accents with it to get something new.

Lapels: Without a doubt, lapels play a role in shaping your jacket. So, you can opt for various clothing from tartan and velvet to satin-trimmed options.

Piping Options: Those seeking customized jackets with new ideas can add piping. Other than being decorative embellishment, piping complements the seams of the jacket and make it more charismatic.

Matching vs Contrasting Waistcoats: Many people are seen wearing contrasting waistcoats. This approach offers a creative look. However, make sure that both colors complement the patterns of your kilt.

When to Wear a Prince Charlie Jacket

Many people consider a Prince Charlie and an Argyll Jacket to be similar things and consider them suitable for both formal and semi-formal events. Therefore, Charlie jackets are valid for the events only where dress code matters. Here are a few events to wear them to.