Vintage Sequin Jackets

GLITTER & SPARKLE! 

Sequins have been used to adorn garments for hundreds, if not thousands of years. Even King Tutankhamun was found with sequins sewn onto the garments in his tomb. Originally made from metals including gold, they would be expensive and heavy to wear. Gowns would have sequins that glint in the light projecting both wealth and beauty.

Fast forward to the 1930’s and innovation makes the leap from metal to gelatine… Yes, edible gelatine! Consequently, sequins were lighter and more available to the mass market. Like the metal, these were a sustainable option – although not vegan. Unfortunately, gelatine sequins can become distorted with heat. They are biodegradable but maybe too easily. If the gelatine sequins get too hot or wet they may start to degrade while still being worn. Maybe better left to cake decoration.

Nowadays, sequins are generally made of vinyl plastic. Plastic sequins are light, cheap and durable and are available to the mass market. Whether its festival bling, Christmas party wear or just what you wear day to day – sequins are here to stay!

Unfortunately, plastic sequins are not great for the environment. It is possible to buy recycled plastic sequins from The Sustainable Sequin Company which means that no new plastic is being produced. Hopefully, a biodegradable option becomes available soon. All the sequin jackets being sold in the fast fashion shops – often at a cheap price – make me wonder how they were made. And who made them. Historically applying sequins is time-consuming. If someone has to sew my sequins, I’d like to know they were paid to do so.

In the meantime, secondhand and vintage sequin jackets are a great option!

This is just a small number of the vintage sequin jackets available on Etsy. Links are at the bottom of the page.  There are many more in all different colours, sizes, and styles. Many of these are collector items: however, it is possible to bag a bargain for everyday wear too. Vintage sequin jackets are hiding in every secondhand and charity shop and often pop up on eBay and Depop too. They are beautiful and will make a better option than the fast fashion alternative.

A better option for the environment, garment workers, and your wardrobe!

Links for vintage sequin jackets –

Number 1 – Number 2 – Number 3 – Number 4 – Number 5 – Number 6 – Number 7 – Number 8  – Number 9 – Number 10  – Number 11 – Number 12 – Number 13 – Number 14 – Number 15 – Number 16 – Number 17 – Number 18 – Number 19 – Number 20 – Number 21 – Number 22 – Number 23 – Number 24 – Number 25

(affiliate links)

Further reading:

A History Of Sequins – Racked

Terminology: Sequins v Spangles – The Dreamstress

A History of Sequins from King Tut to the King of Pop – Smithsonian

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