Tippet

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Meriwether Lewis wearing a tippet presented to him by Sacagawea's brother, Cameahwait.
Meriwether Lewis wearing a tippet presented to him by Sacagawea's brother, Cameahwait.

A Tippet is a stole or scarf-like narrow piece of clothing, worn around the arms and above the elbow. They evolved in the fourteenth century from long sleeves and typically had one end hanging down to the knees. Nowadays, a tippet is often any scarf-like wrap, usually made of fur.

Anglican priest wearing a black tippet.
Anglican priest wearing a black tippet.

A ceremonial scarf worn by Anglican ministers is also sometimes called a tippet. The tippet is worn with choir dress and hangs straight down at the front. Ordained clergy wear a black tippet, while licensed readers wear a blue one. It is normally simply referred to as a preaching scarf, black scarf, or blue scarf. The tippet is different from the stole, which although often worn like a scarf is a liturgical vestment.

The black preaching scarf (rarely blue, grey or green) is also worn by some Scottish Presbyterian ministers and other non-conformist clergy.

[edit] Other meanings

  • Tippet may also refer to the lightest end section of leader to which a fishing fly is tied.
  • It may also refer to a bird's or other animal's ruff (colorful feathers or neck hair).