Gorgets
Our gorget collection preserves one of the most distinctive and historic elements of British military ceremonial tradition. These unique items of insignia—descended from medieval neck armour—now serve as the exclusive mark of staff officer appointments, creating immediate visual distinction during formal occasions.
The gorget's evolution from protective armour to ceremonial symbol represents military traditions adapting through centuries while maintaining historical connections. Today's carefully crafted ceremonial versions in gilt or silver finish with distinctive scarlet backing maintain this lineage, identifying senior officers serving in specific staff appointments across different levels of command.
Our collection addresses varying ceremonial requirements through different designs appropriate for specific dress regulations. The distinctive full-sized gorgets for No1 and No3 dress create maximum visual impact during the most formal occasions, while the more discreet clip versions for shirt order provide appropriate identification during less formal staff duties. The variations for different rank levels—with general officer versions featuring more elaborate decoration than those for brigadiers and colonels—maintain the hierarchical distinction essential to military tradition.
For cadet organisations, these distinctive items hold special significance for senior adult volunteer officers in staff appointments at regional and national levels. The proper wearing of appropriate gorgets communicates their specific command responsibilities while maintaining the ceremonial traditions that connect today's cadet forces with centuries of military heritage.
Since 1949, Cadet Kit Shop has provided authentic military-specification ceremonial items that allow senior cadet officers to properly represent their appointments with historical accuracy. These distinctive gorgets maintain important traditions while providing appropriate recognition for those serving in staff positions within the cadet community.
