Terminology: Sequins vs. Spangles (& their history in fashion
When I first became really interested in fashion history in my early teens, and poured over historical costuming books and museum catalogues and saw mentions of sequins and spangles I assumed they were the same thing, and that ‘spangle’ was just a posh term for a sequin. As I studied textiles in university, and began working for museums, I realised that museums generally use very precise, specific terms (hmmmm…I wonder where my love of terminology comes from!), and that a spangle and a sequin might be different things. As I’ve researched sequins and spangles I’ve realised that the use in terminology is sometimes very specific and precise, and that sometimes the terms are used interchangeably (see: how to make a fashion historian grumpy). Many costume books use the terms to mean exactly the same thing, as do some museums. Some sources that make a distinction describe a spangle as a sequin with the hole at the top edge, rather than in the centre. Other sources describe a sequin as any decorative disk, while spangles must …
1780-1789 Fashion History Timeline
Marlein - a 16th century wardrobe: april 2020
Terminology: Sequins vs. Spangles (& their history in fashion) - The Dreamstress
The surprising history of sequins- a symbol of decadent dressing since 1341 BC
Creative Cockades: Star Spangled Glory
Sequin - Wikipedia
A Brief History of the Sequin
Creative Cockades: Star Spangled Glory
Sequins Sew on Round Plastic Loose Sequins Paillette Spangles for Craft Embroidery in Blood Red Pearl Finish - Canada
The Y2K Sequin Dress Trend Took Over the 2023 Oscars Red Carpet
Spangles and Sequins From Golden Hinde Goldwork