When, where, and why the blanket is worn, carry nuances that elude most people who aren’t familiar with the Lesotho region. 

For example, a new bride would wear a blanket wrapped around her hips so that she would “stay warm”, as warmth typically is associated with fertilization.

The symbolism associated with the blanket is far-reaching and encompasses different practices. Here are some more examples of how the Basotho blanket is used as more than just a blanket:

1.  At a baby's birth, the child is wrapped in a special blanket, the same blanket is later used by the mother to carry her child.
2.  As a sign of respect, a woman would cover her shoulders with a blanket, especially in the presence of her father-in-law or on public occasions such as funerals and church gatherings. 
3.  As a gesture of union, typically how a Westerner would present an engagement ring to his bride to be, a husband would present his bride with a Basotho wedding blanket. 
4. Gifting your bride: The blanket may also form part of “bohali”, the gifts given to the bride's parents as part of the agreement or union of marriage between families. 
5. Right of passage: When a boy goes through puberty he will wear a special blanket as proof that he has reached manhood in the Basotho culture. 
6. Coronations: Other memorable events are also marked by a blanket, such as during the prestigious coronation of a king, or induction of a chief, but equally as majestic and rich in meaning is the simple gesture of gifting a person with a blanket when about to venture on a long journey.  
7. Death: Even in death, it is customary to wrap the deceased in a blanket as a gesture of warmth. 

Some tips if you plan to wear your Basotho Blanket:

• An adult male would wear the darker side outwards, and a female the lighter

• Blankets are worn with their stripes always in a vertical position, symbolizing growth and prosperity 

• The blanket should be folded at the top, and adjusted to the right size 

• The Basotho blanket is worn in all circumstances and the most humble surroundings, as well as in the most important places. The Basotho feel that “appearing in a blanket adds gravity, elegance and a certain symbolism to the event”. It is considered formal wear. 

• When manual labor is performed, the blanket is either discarded or doubled up and hung over one shoulder by men, so as not to soil the blanket. Men also fasten the blanket on the right shoulder, leaving the right arm free for movement or action.

Below is the traditional way that Basotho people have worn their blankets for over 140 years