Incorporating a tartan sash in your ladies’ highland dress outfit is a great way to show off your Scottish clan heritage and leaves you looking your best for that special event. The sash is a versatile product and there are multiple different ways to wear it. If you are interested in how to style your sash traditionally or looking for inspiration for a more contemporary look, we have created this guide of some of the different ways you can wear your sash to fit your style.

When did the Sash Originate

The origins of the sash remain unclear, but it is believed to have derived from the tradition of women wearing an arisaid – a popular item of regional dress in the 18th century for women in the Scottish Highlands. This garment was made from two lengths of tartan fabric, wrapped around the waist and draped over the shoulders, to provide comfort and warmth. The cloth could then be fastened together at the front with a pin or brooch.

What is a Sash

A sash is a lightweight scarf, usually longer than a regular scarf which is draped around the torso. Sashes are typically made in the tartan of the wearer’s family clan and can be secured with a pin or brooch. They are considered a decorative feature to enhance your evening look and is often worn with traditional Scottish dress at a Ceilidh, Burns Supper or other formal event. It is also a great way for brides and the wedding party to add some tartan into their formalwear.

Traditionally, sashes are made from wool, although today can be produced in many different fabrics. At Lochcarron of Scotland, we make our Tartan Sash and Mini Rosette Sash in our 100% pure new wool Light Weight Reiver Tartan Fabric. Our sashes are made-to-order, available in over 500 authentic Scottish tartans, all woven at our mill in the Scottish Borders. Although, if you would like a more personalised touch for your sash, you can create your own exclusive tartan through our Tartan Design Service.

How to Style your Sash

The traditional way to wear your sash is to the wrap the material around your left hip and draw up into a cross on the right shoulder, fastening with a pin or brooch.

If keeping with tradition is important, it should be noted that wearing a sash draped over the left shoulder instead of the right is only worn by the wife of the clan chief. However, sources differ in the correct way to wear your sash and today this rule is just for guidance. In the present day there is more flexibility in what size of sash you wear and how you decide to style it is a matter of personal preference, this often the side that allows the dominant hand to move more freely.

Another option for your sash is to wear it draped over the right shoulder crossing at the hip on the left side of the body, pinning together with a brooch. This style was thought to be how women would wear their sash if they were married but not wearing their husband’s clan tartan.

 

Alternatively, you can tie your sash in knot at the hip if this is your preferred look.

 

For a more contemporary feel, why not create the look of an Obi - a sash or belt worn in Japan to secure a kimono. Start by wrapping your sash around your waist two or three times, depending on the length of your material, and tie a knot at your hip on the side of your preference.

The Mini Rosette

There are many kinds of sashes available other than a regular sash. If you prefer a smaller sash another popular choice is the Mini Rosette Sash. This sash is secured on the upper chest and worn over the top right shoulder, allowing the material to drape down the back.

The Mini Rosette leaves much of the front of the dress free of the sash and is easier for moving around in, particularly when dancing. This type of sash has grown in popularity for less formal occasions but what sash you decide to wear is your choice.

Accessorise your Sash with a Brooch or Pin

Brooches add an additional layer of Scottish pride and come in multiple different sizes and styles. Explore our range of brooches and add the finishing touch to your highland wear outfit. We offer traditional Celtic Knot brooches as well as more contemporary styles, all made in polished pewter.

Part of our selection of brooches | Celtic Knot Brooch (left) | Stag Brooch (centre) | Thistle Brooch (right)

We hope our guide gave you some ideas of how to style your tartan sash and encouraged you to decide to include a sash part of your evening attire. Explore what we have to offer here at Lochcarron and add a hint of Scottishness to your look with a sash, elevating your outfit at every formal occasion for years to come.