How to Wear a Tartan Sash, A Quick and Smart Guide
A tartan sash is a traditional Scottish accessory that adds a touch of elegance and heritage to your outfit. Often worn during formal occasions like weddings, Highland games, or special celebrations, the tartan sash is a symbol of pride in Scottish culture. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wear a tartan sash and style it with confidence.
1. Choose the Right Tartan
Before wearing a tartan sash, you need to select the right tartan pattern. Tartan is often linked to family clans, regions, or specific events, so choose one that reflects your heritage or the event you’re attending.
- Clan Tartan: If you’re wearing the sash for a formal or family event, it’s common to choose your family’s clan tartan.
- Event-Specific Tartan: For weddings or special occasions, you might opt for a tartan that matches the color scheme of the event.
At Kiltist, you’ll find a wide variety of tartan sashes to choose from, ensuring you can find the perfect pattern for any occasion.
2. Prepare the Sash
Tartan sashes are usually made from wool or a wool-blend fabric. They are rectangular pieces of cloth, typically around 4-6 inches wide and 70-80 inches long. Make sure the sash is properly ironed to remove any wrinkles before wearing.
3. Positioning the Sash
The way you wear your tartan sash depends on whether you’re wearing it as part of a full Highland dress or just as a decorative accessory. The general approach is as follows:
For Women (Traditional Wear)
- Over the Left Shoulder: The sash is typically worn over the left shoulder, draping diagonally across the chest.
- Secure with a Pin: Use a decorative brooch or pin to secure the sash at the left shoulder. This helps keep the sash in place and adds a beautiful, traditional touch. The sash should fall gracefully down the front of your body.
- Length of the Sash: The sash should ideally end just below your hip or thigh, depending on how long you want it to hang. If it’s too long, you can tuck the excess under the sash to create a neater look.
For Men (Formal Occasion or with Kilt)
- Over the Right Shoulder: Men typically wear a tartan sash over the right shoulder, with the cloth draped across the chest and fastened at the right shoulder.
- Pin It in Place: Just like women, men should secure the sash using a pin or brooch at the shoulder.
- Neat and Stylish: Make sure the sash falls neatly across the body, with the ends of the cloth hanging down in a symmetrical manner.
4. Pairing the Sash with the Outfit
A tartan sash is a statement piece, so it’s important to wear it with the right attire. Here are some tips on pairing it:
- For Women: A tartan sash can be worn with a traditional Highland dress or a kilted skirt for a formal look. You can also wear it with a blouse or a simple dress, adding the sash for a Scottish touch.
- For Men: If you’re wearing a kilt, a tartan sash can complement the look. It can be worn with a kilt jacket or waistcoat for a formal appearance, especially at weddings or ceilidhs.
You can find beautiful tartan sashes and scarves at Kiltist to complete your ensemble.
5. Adjusting the Fit
Once the sash is pinned in place, adjust the cloth so that it sits comfortably on your shoulder without being too tight or too loose. The sash should feel secure but not constricting. Ensure the cloth drapes smoothly across your chest and back for the best appearance.
6. Adding Finishing Touches
To complete your look, consider the following accessories:
- Brooch or Pin: A traditional Scottish brooch or pin can be used to secure the sash. This is an essential accessory to keep the sash in place while adding a decorative element.
- Shoes: When wearing a kilt or formal dress, choose footwear that complements the tartan style. Ghillie brogues are a traditional choice, adding authenticity to your look.
- Other Accessories: You can add additional Scottish accessories, like a sporran or a kilt belt, to complete your ensemble.
Conclusion
Wearing a tartan sash adds a unique and elegant touch to your outfit, whether you’re attending a wedding, festival, or formal event. By following the proper steps—selecting the right tartan, positioning the sash correctly, and pairing it with appropriate attire—you can confidently wear this traditional Scottish accessory with style. Whether draped over the left or right shoulder, the tartan sash is a versatile and meaningful garment that brings a sense of heritage to any occasion.
For a great selection of tartan sashes, brooches, pins, and shoes, be sure to check out the full range of accessories available at Kiltist.
