Navy Ball

[statesman]

Abotts. Worth the $.

I third. I bought mine for the previously mentioned HS-6 Dinning In. The other Mid on cruse bought a set from the Nex (Flying Cross). I could definitely notice a difference in quality.

Similarly, I just received my SDBs from Abotts. LEAPS AND BOUNDS above the ones issued through NROTC and well exceeds the Brooks Brothers Jacket several OCs here have. I have yet to compare it side by side with the USNA SDBs my buddy has, but from what I remember the Abotts is of higher quality. Definately worth the coin in my opinion. I wont buy a dress uniform (or AWGs) from any other source.

 

[zab1001]

We go through this every year. Abbott's chokers are great. Their SDBs are okay, but try the "Flying Cross" stuff at the Exchange as well (Even tailored, Abbott's were too boxy for me).

 

[C420sailor]

It all really depends on how you're built, in my opinion. Some people can just look great in an off the shelf choker jacket. I have to take everything I get to the tailor because I have a big chest and a little chick waist. Sucks.

The velcro collar does blow though. Takes about 5 minutes just to get it to match up right.

 

[HAL Pilot]

The average aviator will wear these uniforms so few times that I don't see it being worth the extra money.

Different story if you have a job at an embassy job, as a congressional liaison, as a flag aide, etc.

 

[TheBubba]

I have yet to have any issues with the velcro collar. All of my uniforms are off the shelf NEX bought items... save what I was issued at The Bote Skool.

As far as mess dress goes, I can count the number of times outside USNA that I have worn it... 3... on one hand. One Navy Ball, One Prowler Ball and some banquet I went to shortly after commissioning. Chokers about the same. Day after graduation for 2 weddings, my wedding and that's about it.

I'd say don't waste the money on mess dress until you get your lobotomy.

 

[zab1001]

1. Abbotts has a package that has an option for mess dress or a bridge coat...get mess dress. My folks bought me the package as a graduation present, I opted for the bridge coat. I've worn it once. I've worn my self-purchased mess dress plenty.
2. The velcro collar just looks bad. As someone who owns both, the NEX collars bends and crumples, the Abbotts collar stands up straight and is cut far more precisely for your neck. Trust me.

 

[TheBubba]

My NEX made velcro collar looks good. But that's because I actually stand infront of a mirror anf do it. Takes me two ro three tries, but it loos good. That and the metal buckle collars dig into my throat. I can't get the neck big enough without getting a jacket that's way too big.

 

[statesman]

My NEX made velcro collar looks good. But that's because I actually stand infront of a mirror anf do it. Takes me two ro three tries, but it loos good. That and the metal buckle collars dig into my throat. I can't get the neck big enough without getting a jacket that's way too big.

Nice thing about Abotts chokers is the flap that sits between your neck and the buckle. That being said, it takes me about 12 tries to get the clasp closed. I feel like a 15 year old trying to deal with a bra for the first time. It's quite ridiculous.

 

[picklesuit]

Nice thing about Abotts chokers is the flap that sits between your neck and the buckle. That being said, it takes me about 12 tries to get the clasp closed. I feel like a 15 year old trying to deal with a bra for the first time. It's quite ridiculous.

You got to take off a bra at 15?! Damn, I had to wait until my senior year of high school...I guess that explains why I am in P-3's