It is believed that Border dancers disguise dates back to the time of "Tied workers" (the house is tied to the job) when during slack times money could be made at fairs dancing and playing music. The workers would be evicted if caught by the squire therefore they used materials close to hand - rags and coal dust to disguise themselves. We however -just like making an exhibition of ourselves!

So we wear Red and Yellow to signify fire and explosions.......

Our Rag Jackets are Red and Yellow with another "fire" colour added...

We wear  black face paint and sometimes a mask or other colours.....

to individualise ourselves......

We wear decorated black Top hats - these are stylised by the wearer - eat yer heart out Trinny and Suzannah!

An finally to finish our ensemble bell pads are worn on the legs with more tatters.