sassy27

I will be attending the Military Tattoo next month and I'm just a little unsure of that the proper attire is. I also have tickets to attend a drink in the Castle Officers' Mess. It says that gentlemen must wear a jack and tie in the Officer's Mess. To me this means I should be dressed up, not formal but dressed up. I know how the weather can be in Scotland as this will be my 3rd trip there so I'm trying to cut down on the amount of clothes to pack. We also will be touring the Orkney Islands during this time.

I am a casual dresser and normally wouldn't bring a dress unless it's necessary so any suggestions would be helpful.

janisj

You need warm at the Tattoo (and possibly waterproof since umbrellas aren't allowed during the Tattoo). The officers Mess means you'll need nice slacks or a warm skirt plus a warm cardi or blazer-type jacket.

If it was me (I have attended a semi dressy event along w/ the Tattoo but it was years ago) - I'd wear dark wool blend slacks, a turtlenecked top or warm blouse, a blazer and some sort of attractive scarf (all of which you can 'dress down'/layer during other parts of your trip) and carry a waterproof windbreaker/poncho to throw on if needed during the Tattoo. Don't bother w/ heels - unless you were taking some anyway. Any non-athletic-shoe-type flats will do.

sassy27

Thanks janisj. This is exacty the advice I'm looking for. I knew about the waterproof jacket and no umbrellas but didn't know it would be that cold. I have visited at the end of June before and when it rained I could see my breath so I should have known. My main concern was shoes because heels do not keep my feet warm. I also am cold blooded probably one of the reasons why my family left Scotland all those years ago.