When we think of glitz, glamour, and modern fashion, one thing always comes to mind: sequin. These beautiful embellishments can take a simple outfit to the next stratosphere, transforming you into the belle of the ball (or party).
Some people dismiss them as tacky, but when they’re styled well, sequins look great on anyone. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away at a club or you want a refined but fun evening gown, sequins are the answer to your fashion prayers!
But what are these tiny shimmering discs? Where did they come from, and why are they still such a huge fashion must-have? Stay with us, hun, and we’ll answer all your sparkle and shine-related questions, plus give you all the pointers you need on how to really rock sequins this year.
Sequin isn’t a type of fabric. It’s an embellishment, typically shiny and stitched flat onto the fabric of a garment. These individual discs are made of plastic or metal that reflect light. They’re usually cut into a rounded shape, but they can come in other shapes too, like squares or rectangles. Most garments need a large amount of sequins to create that full shimmering effect, but designers use them sparingly to create intricate patterns, too.
Sometimes, you might hear people talk about “sequin fabric,” which just shows how recognizable these lightweight embellishments have become in the fashion industry. But that’s not quite accurate – sequins are produced as individual discs with a handy punching machine, then sewn together to create one dazzling design.
Sequins aren’t just a partylicious modern invention; they have a very long and interesting history. The word “sequin” actually derives from the Arabic word “sikka”, which means “coin”. It has evolved through various languages, including French and Venetian, before taking on its English form: “sequin.” This is what we now use to describe our fabulous party gear.
Sequins are believed to have originated in Ancient Egypt and modern-day Pakistan, where they symbolized wealth and a high social status. Some people may have also used them to ward off evil spirits. Yep – there’s true magic in style! For centuries afterward, sequins evolved as a statement fashion decoration to be rocked across the centuries.
They appeared in theatrical costumes and elaborate gowns during the Renaissance period. People were eager to experiment, so many designers began to create more creative patterns with sequins. As society industrialized, it was easier to mass-produce these glam-tastic small metal discs, and sequins began to elevate to high fashion.
During the Victorian period, you’d most likely see sequins on evening gowns, particularly those made of satin. They favored classical designs, but used the sequins to make the dresses heavier and more textured. Translation? The Victorians knew how to look bomb. Their usage was relatively similar during the Edwardian period, when anyone could glam it up like a queen.
The Egyptian origin of sequins was reintroduced to society during the Roaring Twenties, when Tutankhamun’s tomb was opened in Egypt. His clothing was adorned with little gold discs, and the discovery triggered the “Egyptomania” craze, with sparkling flapper dresses and sequinned accessories. Just imagine those parties!
In the modern world of big fashion designers and glittering red carpet gowns, it’s impossible not to know what sequins are. Despite their long history as a symbol of wealth and status, sequins are now a versatile decoration that anybody can wear. Interested? Then keep reading to find out exactly how you can slay in sequins!
We get it; sequins can be intimidating, especially with all that crazy history. However, once you understand how to wear them, they become the perfect addition to any outfit, casual or glamorous.
Cocktail dresses are the perfect place to start for beginners because sequins look SO natural on them. These sequins may be stitched flat or hung more loosely to reflect the light better, but they’re almost always one color and uniformly added. And if you’re a girlie who loves variety? You’re in luck! There’s a lot of choice with cocktail dresses, too, with looks to suit any taste.
It’s relatively easy to choose a sequin dress. Decide how casual or refined you would like to look (are you looking for the perfect party dress or a stand-out birthday dress to steal the spotlight?). Then pick a sequin pattern and a design shape that fits your body best.
Many people adorn their cocktail attire with jewelry and other little embellishments, but this is a matter of preference. A cocktail dress code isn't overly formal, and it’ll still make you the star of the show.
Sequins might seem like a bold choice on a first date, but take it from us: there’s nothing like a first impression! Think of them as decorations to make your outfit really pop, and before you know it, you’ll have them eating out of the palm of your hand.
Even after the first date is ancient history, sequin fabrics are still a hot material to wear on romantic occasions. Any sequined date night dress is bound to captivate the room, creating a sexy silhouette that highlights the wearer’s best features and draws attention wherever they go.
Looking for recommendations? Check out our Center of Attention Silver Sequin Dress or our Bianca Black Sequin Backless Dress for all eyes on you.
Want the key to successfully pulling off sequins? Pair items together to create a finished look that slays. Consider each item as part of a whole. This will ensure all the elements work together without becoming too overwhelming.
For example, there are times when a disco-inspired sequinned two-piece is the absolutely perfect choice. But if you’re after a more balanced look, it would be best to pair a sequin top with jeans, or a sequin dress with plain shoes. This means you’re not adding too many sequins to the outfit.
Sometimes, sequins may even look best on accessories, so a sequin clutch bag is a must in any closet. Sequins can also be used to create texture when paired with other materials, such as denim or silk, or to blend textures, such as with tulle, velvet, or lace. Whatever the vibe is, sequins should always complement the rest of the outfit.
You can wear sequins casually, but they really come into their own during celebrations. From wild parties to refined formal events, there’s one thing that will never let you down: sequin dresses. They’re THE item that every woman should have in her closet.
A sequined party dress is so fun and dynamic. Here, sequins make an impact twice; first by adding some glitter and texture to the outfit, then by reflecting more light to really draw the eye. There’s something playful about how they look, giving each party dress its own unique energy.
Back in the 1970s disco era, sequins were a hot material for clubwear and other glitzy going-out garments. Party dresses are a great call-back to that period because they allow you to fully express yourself and embrace the party vibe.
Though they look amazing under heavy disco lights, sequins can also look classy and beautiful on evening gowns. After all, people used to wear sequins to display wealth, and you don’t need to spend thousands anymore to achieve a very similar fancy look.
Everyone’s wearing chiffon and silk gowns. But sequins are an interesting alternative that won’t overwhelm you like you might imagine. Sequin fabric can actually be very subtle, yet still bring that same dazzling look to the outfit. High-end, designer sequin gowns are also akin to old Hollywood glamour, when fashion was opulent and excessive.
Sequins are also a great choice when it comes to special occasions. They’re great holiday dresses for events like New Year’s Eve, when you want to party all night and ring in the new year in style. Silver and gold are popular sequin colors for any New Years dress, but the beauty is that any color will do!
Special occasions also rarely have set dress codes, so you can dress up or down as much as you’d like. Even a sequin t-shirt with a skirt or jeans will inject some sparkle without seeming over the top, but a matching sequin set also wouldn’t seem out of place. As long as the sequins don’t look garish, they will slay at any celebration.
Anybody can rock sequins; you just need the confidence to choose them! The glittery look of lightweight sequins naturally draws attention to your shape, so it’s good to know how to dress your figure up. This involves understanding garments more than sequins, though those embellishments can also affect how an item looks.
To emphasize your waist, choose a fitted dress (or one with a cinched waist), or a flowing skirt. For wider hips and busts, A-line or V-neck dresses help to draw attention to all the right areas. Height also plays a role. Taller women rock longer skirts well because they don’t overwhelm their figures.
As for the sequins, choose a color that complements your skin tone and fits the vibe of the event.
The best thing about sequins is that they suit any occasion and any type of outfit. The history of sequin is so varied, and modern fashion should continue to embrace that. But if you’re still not sure how best to build an outfit with sequins, follow our final tips below:
Absolutely not! Though sequins are a prominent feature in clothes, they’re also used in a variety of accessories, including shoes, handbags, and jewelry. Those with more theatrical taste will have seen them on stage costumes, too, and even in certain bold makeup looks.
Hun, the beauty of sequins is how versatile they are. Though they dazzle on any special occasion, they can also make a more subtle impact on daytime outfits. For instance, a sequin hem looks amazing on denim jeans, and sequins also give basic tees a pop of color.
Sequin fabric should always be handled delicately, so keep it away from the washing machine! It’s best to hand-wash sequined clothing, then fold or hang them inside out to prevent any snagging on knits or other materials. And always keep them away from high heat!
Unfortunately, sequin isn’t typically a sustainable material, but that does seem set to change. Some fashion designers are beginning to use biodegradable sequins, and this trend is ready to really take off as the industry becomes more eco-friendly.
Sequin is a gorgeous embellishment that every woman should own. They look good on every body type, can complement every skin tone, and fit every occasion. You can look as casual or as glam as you like with sequins on, with a whole world of glittering dresses, skirts, and accessories just waiting for you to try them on!
