Sash

Sashes were an invariable part of male and female folk costumes and a prominent feature in the wedding ceremony. They were plaited, knitted or woven from linen and silk threads in many parts of Russia. Sashes were popularly believed to protect the wearer from evil spirits. The diamond-shaped motifs of the ornamental designs were enlivened with geometric human figures and pictures of horses and deer. Tassels set off the bright red and multi-coloured patterns.