Sashes

The method of wearing sashes or light scarves had customary significance even two centuries ago, and although the wearing of sashes in any particular manner is of no legal significance whatsoever nowadays, ladies may feel more comfortable knowing that tradition is being observed!

All the following suggestions are based on a study of old portraits, prints and traditional practice and were approved by the then Lord Lyon King of Arms. The terms and criteria used are rather quaint and reflect a lifestyle that has all but disappeared even from the Scottish social scene.

Left ~ Clanswoman
The sash is worn over the right shoulder across the breast and is
secured by a pin or small brooch on the shoulder.

Right ~ Chieftainess

The wife of a clan chief or the wife of a Colonel of a Scottish Regiment would wear a slightly wider sash over the left shoulder and secured with a brooch on the left shoulder.

Left ~ Ladies married out of their clan but who wish to use their original clan tartan
This sash is usually longer than the Style 1. version and is worn over the right shoulder secured with a pin and fastened with a large bow on the left hip.

Right. Often worn by Scottish country dancers or where the lady wishes to keep the front of her dress clear of the sash - as when wearing the ribbons or decorations of any chivalric order. This style is very similar to a man's belted plaid and is really a small arisaid. It's buttoned on at the back of the waist or held by a small belt and is secured at the right shoulder by a pin or small brooch so that the ends fall backwards from the right shoulder and swings at the back of the right arm.