Red Sea Rig

[Jakarta]

Heading to a Burns night supper in a couple of weeks, at a nice five star hotel here in Jakarta.
Being ex-Navy I'm fully aware of what Red Sea Rig should be, we used to wear it every Saturday night when at sea and for sundowners on the bridge roof.
However, google is throwing up some surprises.

My opinion is the following, Black dress shoes, black trousers (no turn-ups) short sleeve white shirt, open collar and a cummerbund.

My Google Fu agrees in some instances, but also suggests that it is basically a black tie rig without the jacket. so long sleeve and a bow tie with a cummerbund.
I messaged the Chieftan of the local society and he stated that a few turn up in full black tie rig, others in a more relaxed arrangement.
I'd prefer to get it right and not have to explain to a whole raft of people that I am wearing the correct Naval version of Red Sea Rig, particularly as the dress code was established by Naval Officers many moons ago.
I would also guess that a number of the local Scots will be in Kilts and Prince Charlie jackets.
I'm not keen on wearing a full dinner jacket, but I also believe that long sleeves with bow tie and cummerbund looks a bit stupid.

What's the general consensus of the suited and booted PH team?

[anonymous-user]

Are there photos from previous events you could check out?

Presumably it's some kind of expat St.Andrews society or similar drinking club for British blokes abroad?

[Phud]

Red sea rig was informal evening wear, you had mess undress or mess dress for formal evenings.

You are correct, polished black shoes, black working trousers, short sleeved shirt, two front pockets and rank boards, ship/squadron cummerbund.

Never wear the war shirt until mess rugby started

[98elise]

Phud said:

Red sea rig was informal evening wear, you had mess undress or mess dress for formal evenings.

You are correct, polished black shoes, black working trousers, short sleeved shirt, two front pockets and rank boards, ship/squadron cummerbund.

Agreed (Ex RN also)

[ClaphamGT3]

My understanding is that you're correct.

[gregs656]

98elise said:

Agreed (Ex RN also)

Yep.

Sounds like it's a bit of a free for all though and anyone who isn't sure errs on the side of formal.

[sidekickdmr]

I was expecting this to be about an oil rig in the red sea!


That would have got some funny looks at the party

[ecsrobin]

sidekickdmr said:

I was expecting this to be about an oil rig in the red sea!


That would have got some funny looks at the party

Same here

Imagine rocking up to the party like this:

[Jakarta]

I think gregs656 has got it just right, those that don't know go over the top with formal wear.
I'll wear what I know to be Naval Red Sea rig, without the epaulettes though. Might look a bit daft with military rank showing.