Sash brooches?

[Highwayman]

When presenting a Masonic award in various communities, I've taken to wearing a tartan sash over a black suit. More low-key than a kilt, but nice for pictures afterwards when everyone is in their various blazers and medals. However, the night of my first event wearing the sash I quickly realized my genius and frugal idea of just snapping it shut with a safety pin was not feasible. I luckily had a lapel pin hanging around in my car, which made due keeping things in-place for the next month or so of presentations. Now that I've hung up the sash for the year with award season over, something more substantial would be ideal. I'm aware of the endless options for sash brooches, as well as those designed for fly plaids which could also be used. Frankly the endless choices just overwhelmed me. To clarify, I'm an active Scottish Rite Mason who's deep in the organization. The sash is the American Heritage tartan since these events are always patriotic in nature. My 'clan' is my step-family's, Farquharson. I could just pick a random fifteen dollar brooch and be done with it, but this could be an opportunity to learn more about Scottish decorations, find something with personal meaning, or dig into how other groups have done it.

[Sir Didymous]

Disclaimer: I am speaking as neither a Mason nor one who is full of knowledge on how steps work with regards to clan affiliation.

With that in mind, it's my humble opinion that your options are truly open. You could go with your known connection through your step family. But, then again, one can find Masonic brooches nearly anywhere. I personally use an Anglo-Saxon round cross brooch for my fly plaids, and am making a brooch out of a brass gear for wear with steampunk costume. Obviously, neither of those hold a special connection to me other than my liking them. Also, if you belong to any other groups or clubs, you could consider incorporating that.

For example, I received an Anne of Brittany (patron of the arts and chivalry) medal from the Chivalry for Children program for work with my reenactment group that uses history as a means to promote chivalric ideals. It also includes a mentoring program. Well, I have been known to use it for a plaid brooch next to the lesser insignia of the group to which I belong. (Only during our annual ball. That's too much bling for any other time.)

If, however, you are looking for a minimalist approach, you could use a simple penannular brooch. That's how my wife fastens hers. With your choice of tartan, a simple silver or brass brooch in that style would look quite nice.