The azure "European sash" emblazoned with the 12 stars of the EU flag, which have an official heraldic description as "a circle of 12 golden mullets" was agreed by the parliament's bureau three years ago following a clamour for more pomp and ceremony from MEPs.
"Please note that the design of the sash was made in agreement with the Protocol Service of the EP. In this regard, this is considered to be the official EP sash," said the email, obtained by The Telegraph.
MEPs pride themselves on not simply representing their nations or peoples but instead being the representatives of an overriding European interest, as it is defined by the EU treaty.
When the new parliament was convened in Strasbourg last week, it was opened with a military ceremony conducted by the Franco-German Eurocorps battle group raising the European flag accompanied by Ode To Joy, the EU's official anthem.
MEPs are better known for their gravy train pay and perks rather than the flummery of royal courts or traditional parliaments such as the Palace of Westminster but that might be changing.
"Why shouldn't our MEPs dress up too? This is the world's first transnational parliament and it is special," said an official.