Ghillie and Flannel
This photo is a perfect illustration of the power of flannel trousers.
See how pleasing the contrast between the soft finish of the flannel and the hard finish of the shoe is?
I have to admit that I’m also drawn to the audacity of the ghillies. Ghillies are a traditional Scottish shoe – the distinguishing feature is the unusual lacing system. True traditional ghillies, which are worn for Scottish dancing, don’t have tongues. This shoes off the hose, but like brogueing, its roots are practical – the lack of tongue left an easy egress for bogwater. They’re also tied around the shin, so the knot doesn’t get muddy.
The tongue-less style are really only practical to wear with other elements of traditional Scottish dress, but this toned-down version looks beautiful, doesn’t it?