The Glamour of Sequin Fabrics: A Complete Guide

Over the years, sequin fabrics have become pivotal in fashion trends and runway collections, embodying glamour and versatility, making them a designer favourite in the fashion world.
From adding a touch of sparkle to everyday wear to creating show-stopping evening gowns, sequins have transformed fashion with their dazzling charm.

The history and origins of sequin fabrics
Early uses of sequins
Sequins have a rich history dating back to ancient times. In Ancient Egypt, gold sequins adorned burial garments, symbolising wealth and ensuring prosperity in the afterlife. These early sequins were meticulously crafted from precious metals, reflecting the deceased's high status.
In the Renaissance and Baroque periods, sequins continued to represent wealth and status. Nobility and the affluent class wore garments embellished with sequins, often sewn onto clothing to showcase opulence and social standing.
Evolution in modern fashion
The 1920s marked a significant turning point for sequin fabrics with the rise of flapper dresses. During this era, sequins became synonymous with the glitz and glamour of the Jazz Age. Flappers donned sequin-covered dresses to enhance their bold, carefree style, bringing sequins into mainstream fashion.
The 1970s disco era further propelled sequins into the limelight. Disco fashion embraced sequins in a big way, with dazzling outfits that reflected the energetic and vibrant spirit of the period.
Today's sequin fabrics appear in a variety of designs. In contemporary fashion, sequins have continued to evolve, with designers constantly innovating to create fresh, eye catching looks, including reversible sequins and intricate patterns, showcasing this timeless material's endless possibilities and enduring allure.
What are sequin fabrics made from?
Creating high-quality sequin fabrics involves a meticulous process, starting with selecting materials. Sequins are typically made from reflective materials such as plastic, metal, or glass. These materials are cut into small, thin discs and often coated to enhance their shine and colour. The manufacturing process ensures each sequin is consistent in size and shape, crucial for a uniform and polished appearance on garments.
Meticulous sequin techniques
Attaching sequins to fabric requires precision and expertise. There are two main techniques: hand-sewing and machine-sewing. Hand-sewn sequins offer more detail and customisation, allowing for intricate patterns and designs. This method, while time-consuming, ensures that each sequin is securely attached and can move freely, adding to the garment's fluidity. Conversely, machine sewing is faster and more suitable for large-scale production. It provides consistency and strength, making it ideal for everyday fashion items.
How the quality is maintained
To maintain the durability and shine of sequin fabrics, rigorous quality control measures are essential. Manufacturers conduct thorough inspections to ensure sequins are securely attached and defects-free. Advancements in sequin technology have led to the development of anti-tarnish coatings, which protect sequins from losing their shine over time. Additionally, lightweight sequins have been introduced, reducing the overall weight of garments without compromising on sparkle, allowing for greater comfort and wearability. These innovations ensure that sequin fabrics remain a staple in luxury fashion, combining timeless glamour with modern practicality.
Defining luxury in sequin fabric features
Premium sequin textiles are defined by several key characteristics, including density, pattern, and backing. High end sequin fabrics typically feature a higher density of sequins, which creates a richer and more luxurious appearance. The quality of the base fabric and thread used in sequin textiles is equally important. Luxury sequins are often sewn onto high quality fabrics such as silk, satin, or chiffon, which offer a smooth and elegant drape. Strong, durable threads are essential to withstand the weight of the sequins and the movement of the fabric, ensuring longevity and resilience.


Design Intricacy and detail
One of the hallmarks of premium sequin fabrics is the level of intricacy and detail. Custom patterns and bespoke designs allow for unique creations that stand out in any collection. These patterns can range from subtle, elegant motifs to bold, eye-catching arrangements, each tailored to the designer's vision.
The colour and finish of sequins also play a significant role in defining their luxury. Matte, glossy, and holographic sequins each offer a different aesthetic, providing versatility in design. Matte sequins add a sophisticated, understated sparkle, while glossy sequins deliver a high shine, glamorous effect. With their multi-dimensional sheen, Holographic sequins create a dynamic, futuristic look that captures attention from every angle.

Are sequin fabrics environmentally friendly?
Some low-quality sequins, often made from plastic, have significant environmental drawbacks. The production process generates considerable pollution and waste, contributing to the growing plastic pollution problem in our oceans and landfills. Additionally, manufacturing plastic-based sequins often involves toxic chemicals, posing health risks to workers and consumers alike. These chemicals can leach into the environment, causing further harm to ecosystems and human health.
Here at Joel & Son Fabrics, we source only the best sequin fabrics from manufacturers who use ethical production practices, make sustainable alternatives from environmentally friendly materials, and ensure safe labour conditions and fair wages for their workers.
We believe that by only working with clients who ensure sustainable practices, the fashion industry can continue to enjoy the loveliness and charisma of sequin fabrics while minimising their environmental footprint and promoting a more ethical approach to fashion production.

Maintaining sequin quality and appearance
Proper care and storage are essential to maintaining sequin fabrics' quality and luxurious appearance.
• Tips to clean sequin fabric: Hand wash with a mild detergent and cold water to avoid damage from harsh chemicals and high temperatures. Opt for professional dry cleaning for delicate or heavily sequined items.
• How to store sequin fabric: Lay garments flat or hang them on padded hangers to prevent creases and maintain shape. Use garment bags to protect sequins from dust and potential snags.

Extending the lifespan of sequin garments
Your actions have a direct impact on the lifespan of sequin garments. By handling them with care and wearing them properly, you are in control of their longevity.
• How to avoid damaging sequin: Avoid excessive friction and rough surfaces that can loosen or dislodge sequins. Handle garments gently when putting on or removing them to prevent stretching or pulling.
• Repairing and restoring vintage pieces: Reattach loose sequins or replace missing ones with similar styles and colours. Seek professional assistance for thorough repairs to preserve the garment's original charm.
Only your efforts can keep the fabric dazzling and elegant.

Your destination for high-end sequins
Joel & Son Fabrics offers an unparalleled collection of high-end sequin fabrics, celebrated for their variety and quality. Our curated sequin selection includes:
• Embroidered Silk
• Plain
• Printed
• Sequinned Mesh
• Sequinned Tulle
• Stretch
Each fabric type is meticulously chosen to
meet the highest standards of luxury and craftsmanship.
Whether you seek the elegance of sequinned silk or the versatility of sequinned tulle, our expert team provides personalised assistance and guidance to help you select the perfect fabric for your design projects.
Call The Shop: +44 20 7724 6895
Message On Whatsapp: +44 7395 444 444
Send An Email: info@joelandsonfabrics.com
Discover the ultimate sequin fabric for your next project with Joel & Son Fabrics.