Sequin – A Tiny Detail with a Rich History
The word “sequin” originates from the Italian zecchino, a small gold coin minted in the 13th century. From the very beginning, sequins have been synonymous with wealth and prestige. Archaeological discoveries reveal that even King Tutankhamun’s garments were adorned with gold discs resembling sequins. However, sequins reached the peak of their popularity in the 1920s. Though they were stunningly beautiful, they were also incredibly heavy and uncomfortable to wear.
For a time, designers experimented with producing sequins from… gelatin. While this made dresses much lighter than their earlier counterparts, the sequins would quickly dissolve under heat and moisture. This led to the search for alternative materials, such as film reels, polyester foil, and acetate, until finally, vinyl plastic became the standard. Today, sequins continue to be made from this material.
How Are Sequins Used Today?
Once exclusive to royal courts and grand stages, sequins have now made their way into everyday fashion. No longer reserved for evening gowns and stage costumes, they now embellish a variety of wardrobe pieces, from shoes and scarves to hats and handbags. In today’s fashion, anything goes—even for casual wear.
Without a doubt, sequins are a must-have in this season’s party wardrobe. With the right accessories and a well-chosen outfit silhouette, sequins can serve as either the centerpiece or a subtle decorative element in any look. Whether it’s a dazzling New Year’s Eve dress, an elegant blazer for Christmas Eve, or statement pants for a carnival party, sequins fit every occasion. A sequined vest? Absolutely! A sequined top? Definitely! When it comes to this fabric, the only limit is the designer’s imagination.
Our Top Sequin Styling Ideas
At our wholesale store, we offer a variety of sequins to inspire your next fashion project. Here are some standout ways to incorporate sequins into your designs:
- The Sequined Dress, e.g., Mermaid Style
A fitted, mermaid-style dress beautifully accentuates feminine curves, adds a statuesque elegance, and creates a slimming effect. Additionally, sequin dresses never look the same twice—the shimmering fabric catches the light, reacts to every movement, and adds a glamorous touch to any occasion. You can go for a full-sequin gown with a dramatic floral accent or combine luxurious velvet with sequin embellishments for a timeless and elegant finish. - A Sequined Top Paired with an Elegant Suit
A sequin camisole or corset can be a bold statement piece that adds an edgy, modern twist to even the most classic ensemble. By experimenting with accessories, fabric textures, and color contrasts, you can create a truly unforgettable outfit. - The Sequined Jumpsuit
A true game-changer when it comes to party looks! Opt for a bold color like fuchsia to stand out as the queen of the dance floor, or go for deep black to channel timeless elegance. Just remember to keep jewelry minimal—when it comes to sparkle, balance is key.
These are just a few of the endless possibilities that this season’s must-have sequins offer. At COSMO, you’ll find a wide range of sequin colours and fabrics to help you create stunning collections for special occasions. Add a touch of sparkle to your designs and let every woman feel truly exceptional in them.