Stole vs. Tippet — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on March 27, 2024
A stole is a long, often ceremonial scarf worn over the shoulders, while a tippet is a narrow piece of cloth or fur worn around the neck.
Difference Between Stole and Tippet
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A stole, in its most common form, is a long, draped piece of cloth that may be worn over the shoulders or around the neck for warmth, fashion, or ceremonial reasons. It is often associated with formal or religious attire. A tippet, on the other hand, is a narrow piece of fabric or fur, sometimes part of a coat or cloak, worn around the neck for warmth or as an accessory. While stoles are typically wider and can be used as a symbol of status or office, especially in religious contexts, tippets are more for practical use or as a fashion statement.
The origin of the stole can be traced back to ancient times, where it was used in various cultures as a garment of importance or as part of religious ceremonies. The tippet's origins are more medieval, often associated with ecclesiastical or academic attire. Whereas the stole has a broad and versatile history, symbolizing authority or sanctity in many cases, the tippet was originally a functional item, evolved into a fashionable accessory over time.
In terms of material, stoles can be made from a variety of fabrics, from luxurious silks and satins for formal occasions to simple cotton or wool for everyday wear. Tippets, traditionally made from fur or wool for insulation, have also seen a modern reinterpretation in fashion, utilizing a range of materials from synthetic furs to lightweight decorative fabrics.
The usage context of these garments also differs. Stoles are often seen in weddings, graduations, and religious settings, serving as symbols of respect, achievement, or office. Tippets, conversely, are more commonly worn in colder weather for warmth or as an elegant accessory to an outfit, without the specific symbolic meanings attached to stoles.
The design and appearance of stoles and tippets can vary widely. Stoles may be plain or adorned with symbols, insignias, or decorative patterns, reflecting their ceremonial use or the wearer's status. Tippets tend to be simpler in design, focusing on texture and warmth rather than symbolic detail, although fashion versions can also feature elaborate decorations.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A long scarf worn over the shoulders, often for ceremonial purposes
A narrow scarf or piece of fur worn around the neck for warmth or as an accessory
Origin
Ancient, with cultural and religious significance
Medieval, originally functional and ecclesiastical
Material
Varied, including silk, satin, cotton, and wool
Traditionally fur or wool, now also in synthetic and decorative fabrics
Usage Context
Ceremonial, religious, formal events
Practical for warmth, fashionable as an accessory
Design
Can be ornate with symbols or simple
Typically simpler, focusing on texture; modern versions can be decorative
Compare with Definitions
Stole
A garment of distinction in various cultures and professions.
The judge’s stole indicated his position within the court.
Tippet
A narrow piece of cloth or fur worn around the neck for warmth.
She added a fur tippet to her coat for extra warmth in winter.
Stole
In fashion, a long scarf or shawl worn for elegance or warmth.
She wrapped a silk stole around her shoulders at the evening gala.
Tippet
A part of medieval clerical attire, now a fashion accessory.
The historical reenactor wore a woolen tippet as part of his costume.
Stole
A formal or ceremonial scarf worn over the shoulders.
The graduate donned a stole embroidered with the university crest.
Tippet
A garment evolved from practical use to fashion item.
Fashionistas have embraced the tippet as a vintage-inspired accessory.
Stole
A wide band of fabric, signifying authority or achievement.
The choir members wore blue stoles for the concert.
Tippet
An accessory used for insulation or decorative purposes.
Her velvet tippet was both warm and stylish.
Stole
A long piece of cloth worn around the shoulders, often for ceremonial purposes.
The priest wore a purple stole during the Lenten season.
Tippet
Traditionally fur, now often made with various materials.
The faux fur tippet was a cruelty-free fashion statement.
Stole
A woman's long scarf or shawl, especially of fur or similar material, worn loosely over the shoulders.
Tippet
A tippet is a scarf-like narrow piece of clothing, worn over the shoulders. It may also be likened to a stole in the secular rather than ecclesiastic sense of this word.
Stole
(Ecclesiastical) A long scarf, usually of embroidered silk or linen, worn over the left shoulder by deacons and over both shoulders by priests and bishops while officiating.
Tippet
A covering for the shoulders, as of fur, with long ends that hang in front.
Stole
An ornamental garment worn over both shoulders and tapering to a point in front and in back, worn especially by members of church choirs or as a part of academic dress.
Tippet
A long stole worn by members of the Anglican clergy.
Stole
A long scarf of cloth or fur worn about the shoulders.
Tippet
A long hanging part, as of a sleeve, hood, or cape.
Stole
A long robe or outer garment worn by matrons in ancient Rome.
Tippet
The thinnest end of a tapered fly-fishing leader.
Stole
Past tense of steal.
Tippet
A shoulder covering, typically the fur of a fox, with long ends that dangle in front.
Stole
Past participle of steal
Tippet
A stole worn by Anglican ministers or other clergymen.
Stole
A garment consisting of a decorated band worn on the back of the neck, each end hanging over the chest, worn in ecclesiastical settings or sometimes as a part of graduation dress.
Tippet
(historical) A piece of mail armor protecting the shoulders and neck; a camail.
Stole
A scarf-like garment, often made of fur.
Tippet
A length of twisted hair or gut in a fishing line.
Stole
(botany) A stolon.
Tippet
A handful of straw bound together at one end, used for thatching.
Stole
A stolon.
Tippet
(fishing) In fly fishing, the part of the leader that attaches to the fly.
Stole
A long, loose garment reaching to the feet.
But when mild morn, in saffron stole,First issues from her eastern goal.
Tippet
A bird's ruffle.
Stole
A narrow band of silk or stuff, sometimes enriched with embroidery and jewels, worn on the left shoulder of deacons, and across both shoulders of bishops and priests, pendent on each side nearly to the ground. At Mass, it is worn crossed on the breast by priests. It is used in various sacred functions.
Tippet
One of the patagia, or pieces at the side of the pronotum of a moth.
Stole
A wide scarf worn about their shoulders by women
Tippet
A cape, or scarflike garment for covering the neck, or the neck and shoulders, - usually made of fur, cloth, or other warm material.
Tippet
A length of twisted hair or gut in a fish line.
Tippet
A handful of straw bound together at one end, and used for thatching.
Tippet
A woman's fur shoulder cape with hanging ends; often consisting of the whole fur of a fox or marten
Common Curiosities
Can tippets be made of materials other than fur?
Yes, modern tippets can be made from a variety of materials, including synthetic furs, wool, and decorative fabrics.
Do stoles have symbolic meanings?
Yes, stoles can symbolize status, authority, or achievement, particularly in religious and academic contexts.
Are tippets still used for warmth?
Yes, tippets are used for warmth but have also become fashionable accessories.
How do the designs of stoles and tippets differ?
Stoles may feature symbols or patterns and be wider, while tippets are narrower, focusing on texture and warmth, with simpler designs.
What occasions are stoles typically worn for?
Stoles are worn for formal events, religious ceremonies, and as symbols of achievement or office.
How do fashion trends influence the design of tippets?
Fashion trends have transformed tippets from purely practical garments to stylish accessories, influencing their materials and design.
Are there specific colors associated with stoles in certain contexts?
Yes, in religious and academic contexts, specific colors of stoles can signify different roles, achievements, or seasons.
Have stoles or tippets been featured in historical attire?
Both garments have historical roots, with stoles appearing in ancient cultures and tippets in medieval Europe.
How have stoles evolved over time?
Stoles have evolved from being strictly ceremonial to also being fashionable accessories in various materials.
What historical significance does the tippet hold?
The tippet has medieval origins, initially serving a functional role in ecclesiastical and academic attire before becoming a fashion item.
Can men wear stoles or tippets?
Yes, both garments can be worn by men, depending on the context and design.
Is there a difference in the length between stoles and tippets?
Typically, stoles are longer, draping over the shoulders, whereas tippets are shorter, worn around the neck.
How do individuals choose between wearing a stole or a tippet?
The choice depends on the occasion, desired warmth, symbolic meaning, and personal style preference.
Can a stole be part of a uniform?
Yes, in many religious and academic settings, stoles are part of the official uniform or regalia.
What maintenance does a fur tippet require?
Fur tippets require special care, including proper storage and occasional professional cleaning to maintain their condition.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
