Home » The History of Sequins

The History of Sequins

The origins of the word sequin technically means ‘coin’ or ‘the mint’. We scoured the web to trace back the evolution of fashion’s shiniest embellishment.

Scroll through to see what we found!

EARLY BEGINNINGS

The history of using coins to decorate garments has long been linked to wealth; in the 13th century they were often sewn onto garments as a precautionary measure to keep them close to the body. By the 17th century, however, this tradition had taken on a purely decorative function with coins replaced by metallic discs known as ‘spangles’. Since then, the sequin has manifested itself in a number of different ways.

THE 19TH CENTURY

Over time, the word ‘spangle’ was replaced with ‘sequin’ in popular usage, which is believed to have begun in the 19th century.

In 1922, King Tutankhamun’s tomb was found and unveiled robes embellished with circular discs, which, although tarnished, still retained their intended metallic surface. These relics proved the Egyptians had used an early form of the sequin. The sensation caused by the tomb’s discovery sent the world’s media into a spin. Egyptian apparel appeared everywhere, from interior design, film to fashion. Sequins made a major comeback as a result – as evidenced by this sparkling Coco Chanel gown, worn by actress Alden Gay and captured by Edward Steichen.

1970’s

An article about disco was published in Rolling Stone magazine in 1973, and thus disco was born. Sequins, and it’s metallic surface became a motif for disco goers.

Today sequins are typically worn around the holidays and New Years Eve. But, nothing as prevalent as they were in King Tut’s days.

More Fashion Fabula

How to Style Your Body Type

We all are beautifully unique. However, believing and embracing it is an entirely different story. Unfortunately, women often seem to spend a generous amount of

6 Houseplants for a Healthier Home

There’s nothing like a well-curated display of indoor plants! It’s impressive on two levels–the artistic and the practical. It takes some skill to maintain plants,

Tips for Visiting National Parks

There are so many breathtaking landscapes and endless activities in our U.S. national parks. From whitewater rafting through the Grand Canyon to exploring the elegant

The History of Wedding Dresses

Shopping for that perfect wedding dress often takes months of searching, budgeting, and fittings. The tradition of brides wearing white has never symbolized virginity or

SXSW: Style Guide

South by Southwest is officially kicking off this week, and if you’re headed to Austin this week, you have one supreme goal: to have as

What to Wear to a BBQ

With Memorial Day right around the corner, barbecue season is here. Officially! While great fun, BBQs can be tricky to style for. They are a

The History Behind PF Flyers

From their classic canvas look, to their elusive background, PF Flyers are American history and culture compressed into one shoe. We dug deep into their

Topshop + Adidas

From left to right: Topshop Check Topper, Topshop V-Neck Tee, Topshop Moto Ankle Skinny Jeans, Adidas ‘Stan Smith Sneakers

Best Street Fashion: Oakland

Just a hop over the bay from San Francisco sits Oakland, a multi-cultural hotspot for fashion firsts and trendsetters, specifically the area around Lake Merritt.

Home Decor: Neutrals With An Edge

There are plenty of practical reasons to decorate with neutral colors. The shades we think of as neutral – whites, beiges, tans – don’t clash

Weekend Closet: Military Madness!

Free People – Distressed cotton backpack with rugged leather detailing and adjustable canvas straps. Santa Cruz Backpack, $125 Nordstrom – A metallic panel and barely

Behind the Brand: Oliver Peoples

In this day and age, when all major fashion brands feel like they have to get into every possible accessory sector, it’s highly refreshing to

Burgundy for Fall

Clockwise from left to right: Open Shawl Collar Jacket, Felt Floppy Hat, Pencil Skirt, V-Neck Tee