The History, Styling & Making of Tartan Plaid Hair Bows | Cute Scottish Accessory DIYs

The History and Tradition Behind Tartan Hair Bows

Tartan patterns, with their distinctive criss-crossed lines and colorful plaid designs, have a long history in Celtic culture. Known as "tartan" in Scotland and some parts of England, these traditional weave patterns can be traced back to the early 16th century in the Scottish Highlands.

Originally, Scottish clans used specific tartan patterns and colors to represent their family affiliation. These patterns were woven into kilts and other garments as a way to distinguish the wearer's clan origins and loyalties when traveling or fighting battles.

Tartan Designs Become Fashionable

Over time, tartan patterns evolved from being purely a Scottish clan emblem to becoming popular throughout Great Britain as a fashionable textile design. The motifs exploded in popularity in the Victorian era thanks to Queen Victoria's well-publicized affection for Scottish culture.

By the mid 19th century, tartan patterns were being incorporated into all types of clothing and accessories as tartan mania swept through the British upper and middle classes. Women in particular were big fans of tartan capes, shawls, ribbons, and dressing gowns as these loud plaids made a bold fashion statement.

Tartan Crosses the Pond to America

It didn't take long for the tartan trend to catch on in America either. By the early 20th century, tartan motifs had made their way into the American fashion lexicon through the sportswear and preppy style movements. Plaid designs became synonymous with classic Americana looks, from college pennants to school uniforms.

The 1960s and 1970s witnessed a major revival in tartan apparel and accessories, thanks to iconic style icons like Audrey Hepburn and the British mod culture that was sweeping America. Checks and tartan plaids graced all the major fashion runways as popular patterns for dresses, coats, pants, and hair accessories.

Tartan Hair Bows as a Cute Accessory

It's no surprise then that tartan motifs have been widely embraced in hair bow styles and designs. A tartan plaid bow makes a playful accent piece to decorate a half-updo or ponytail while also giving a nod to Celtic heritage.

Ways to Style Tartan Hair Bows

Here are some of the most popular ways that tartan hair bows are being worn today:

• As a ponytail bow - The classic pony holder paired with a coordinated tartan bow is a simple go-to look that's sweet yet sophisticated.
• In half-up styles - Position a small or large tartan bow where the half-updo is gathered to add some unexpected Scottish flair.
• On braids - Decorating a fishtail, lace braid, or waterfall braid with a tartan bow adds youthful appeal.
• With flower crowns - Blend soft femininity with a bold plaid by accenting a floral crown with tartan bow.
• On headbands - Adorn wide fabric headbands and thin metallic bands with a tartan bow attachment for a cute style.
• As barrettes - Mini bow barrettes can be clipped in the hair anywhere you want a charming touch of colorful plaid.

Where to Buy Tartan Hair Bows

Both handmade sellers on Etsy and mass retailers like Urban Outfitters offer a wide range of high quality tartan hair bow choices including:

• Leather and faux leather bows
• Ribbon bows in satin, grosgrain, organza, etc.
• Patterned bows with additional prints layered onto the tartan
• Tartan bows made from actual vintage kilts for authentic Scottish flair

Hair bow sizes can range from demure 2-inch mini bows to jumbo 10-inch bows that make a real style statement. Prices are generally quite affordable, with most tartan bows ranging from $5 to $25 based on materials used and bow size.

How to Make Your Own DIY Tartan Hair Bows

Looking for a handmade hair accessory that celebrates your family's Scottish or Celtic roots? Crafting bespoke tartan bows is simple with some ribbon or fabric, a glue gun, and a few hair clips.

Select a Tartan Plaid Print

Authentic Scottish tartans use very specific thread counts and color patterns to create clan-associated plaids. While you can certainly use traditional tartan fabrics found online, any checkered or plaid fabric will work beautifully to make bows.

Consider large buffalo plaid flannels to make a grunge style statement orclassic red and navy checks for a vintage vibe. Have fun with the bow colors and patterns to showcase your personal style.

Cut The Fabric

Cut ribbon lengths of 18 to 20 inches to have enough to create full, voluminous bows. For a fabric like flannel, cut rectangular strips that are 3 inches wide by 18-20 inches long. This will yield bows that are about 2.5 to 3 inches in width.

Gather the Bow Shape

Fold the strip in half widthwise, aligning the ends carefully so you have even lengths. Use a bit of glue or fabric seam binding to secure the fold and create your bow center. Then gather and pinch the loose ends to form two loops, gluing in place. Fluff and shape bow as desired.

Attach Clips or Bands

Glue small alligator clips to the back loops to easily clip the bows into hair. Or use ribbons to tie on mini bows. For ponytail bows, hot glue fabric hair ties onto the back instead.

Get creative mixing wide and slim plaids, leather and fabrics, big and small bows. Show off your Celtic roots or just have some styling fun with customized tartan hair bows!

FAQs

What's the difference between tartan, plaid, and check patterns?

While often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between these terms. "Tartan" specifically refers to the Scottish clan patterns, while "plaid" is the fabric woven in tartan designs. "Check" also describes the criss-crossed pattern but isn't associated with Scottish history.

What's the best fabric to make DIY tartan bows?

Lightweight fabrics like ribbon, satin, and organza work well. Medium weight cottons can also be used. Avoid heavy fabrics since bow loops will be too stiff. Flannel buffalo check is a top choice for the grunge look.

How do I attach a tartan bow to a ponytail?

Cut a length of fabric hair tie, fold in half, and glue onto the back of the bow using hot glue. You can also sew ties on. Use fabric glue to attach alligator clips to the back instead to clip bows into hair.

Where can I buy authentic Scottish tartan fabric?

Many online retailers offer traditional clan tartan prints by the yard. Popular shops include Scotland Shop, Tartan Central, and Scotweb. There are also some sellers on Etsy who specialize in Scottish tartans.