History of Embroidered Patches in Fashion

Embroidered patches have undergone tremendous evolution to what we have today. Historically, patches signify military rank, profession, achievement, or affiliation to a particular group. Primarily, embroidery patches were used as insignia. However, over the ages, they evolved into iconic elements in contemporary fashion, symbolizing style, rebellion, and individuality.

Today, top designer brands have embraced embroidery patches, creating fashion trends that have dominated the fashion industry. But the best part about embroidered patches is that you can now make affordable custom embroidered patches, which historically were an expensive craft belonging to a few in society. Whether your goal is to create custom embroidered patches for your fashion or to get a better understanding of embroidered patches, walking down the historical lane will help you appreciate the process more. You have a lot to learn today, keep reading.

What are Embroidered Patches?

Embroidered patches are art pieces where you sew a design on a fabric backing using thread. These pieces of embroidery were commonly known as badges, and they were sewn directly on clothing. In the past, before the Great Industrial Revolution leading to the invention of machines, creating embroidered patches involved hand sewing. However, this has evolved into a more efficient and computerized embroidery process.

Embroidered patches mostly contain different-colored threads to enhance their appearance and depict a logo, convey a theme or message, rank, or used to enhance clothing aesthetics. It’s important to note that not all embroidered patches are sewn directly into a fabric but there are other ways of affixing an embroidered patch on clothing, which include using a pin, velcro backing, or heat-activated adhesive on the back of the patch.

Understanding the History of Embroidered Patches: From Military Use to Creating Prominent Fashion Statements

Embroidered patches have a wide range of applications throughout history which depict the iconic evolution of embroidered patches through different historical decades.

The creation of embroidered patches traces its roots deep in China by the 5th to 3rd centuries BC. The Chinese used their hands to sew fabric patches on clothing, originally to mend patches on torn clothing. However, this advanced to creating creative and decorative patches on clothing to enhance its appearance or adorn it with specific symbols to convey status, which was an intricate process.

Over time, the creation of embroidered patches evolved beyond basic sewing, requiring advanced skills and experience to produce high-quality and valuable patches. Therefore, only highly skilled artisans could create embroidered patches.

Early Military Use

The Military also adopted this style. The use of embroidered patches in the military traces its roots several decades ago to societies like the Chinese, Greeks, and Roman Empire. Soldiers displayed embroidered patches to signify their unit, division, and rank in the military. These patches were well crafted and unique to each soldier.

As we move forward in time, the British Army began adopting embroidered patches in the 1800s, initially limiting their use to higher-ranking officers. Before this, military uniforms were generally devoid of embroidery, with rank designated through tassels, ornaments, or specific types of hats. During this period, the patches served primarily decorative purposes rather than functional ones.

The Spanish Army also incorporated embroidered patches during the 19th century. This mainly happened after the Napoleonic Wars when military reforms led to a more organized and professional standing army. These patches were used to denote rank and unit affiliation, reflecting the military traditions of Spain as they engaged in various conflicts, including the Carlist Wars.

In the United States, the use of military patches became more widespread during the civil war with both union and confederate soldiers wearing patches sewed by their loved ones to show their allegiance. However, it was not until World War I that the U.S. Army formally adopted the use of shoulder sleeve insignia or tactical patches, to identify special divisions.

During World War II, the U.S. Military commissioned for mass production of the patches worn by soldiers as a morale boost. The patches represented a soldier’s unit, division, and even specific qualifications, such as being a medic or tank operator. It’s important to note that the use of embroidered patches in the military gained widespread usage and popularity mainly during World War I and II.

Embroidered Patches in Fashion

Embroidered patches found their way into fashion mainly after the end of World War II and became a part of contemporary fashion as symbols of style, rebellion, and individuality. However, the use of embroidered patches in fashion has had its share of evolution from the 1970s to 2000s.

• The Seventies

The seventies gave the rise of the hippies. This was a generation whose fashion trend was a way of rebellion from the custom fashion of tailored suits and long dresses. This was also the era of rock n’ roll bands. Band members popularized embroidered patches, especially on their leather jackets, making them not only a symbol of rebellion but also a symbol of solidarity and identity.

In addition, the seventies brought the DIY (Do It Yourself) culture, during which the youths customized their jackets and jeans with custom embroidered patches representing their political stands, beliefs, and favorite bands and also signified their rebellion from the norm.

• The Eighties

The eighties gave rise to pop culture, punk rock, and metal bands. This was an error characterized by anarchy and violence. The eighties also saw the climax of anti-fashion. Embroidered patches no longer had peace signs but violent signals of bands.

Street punks stitched embroidered patches on leather jackets and ragged denim vests to show rebellion and allegiance to their bands and gangs. Nevertheless, embroidered patches entered mainstream fashion, with designers creating collections that depicted luxury and class with a hint of rebellion.

• The Nineties

The nineties embraced embroidered patches as a vintage collection. However, this period also saw the rise of street and sportswear. Embroidered patches were used as badges to represent different brands and teams. With technological advancements, embroidered patches became more complex, showcasing intricate designs incorporated into urban culture.

These advancements included the introduction of computerized embroidery machines which offered high-precision stitching. They produced high quality and detailed designs within the minimum time possible. Additionally, manufacturers were able to create patches with multiple colors and intricate patterns that were previously difficult to achieve by hand. The nineties also saw the introduction of 3D puff embroidery which added depth and texture to patches. Moreover, the introduction of iron-on and heat-activated adhesive backings simplified the application for consumers. 

• The 2000s

The 2000s have been a period of fashion renaissance. Despite the shift in fashion statements compared to the seventies when embroidered patches conveyed rebellion and identity, embroidered patches have still found a good place in modern fashion. They have become a centerpiece for designers to explore and express their artistic touch, especially in street fashion and urban culture. Their usage ranges from conveying a vintage touch to a luxurious feel.

The modern era has achieved great detail in customizing embroidered patches, which mainstream media and high-end designers have embraced. Some of the high-end designers, including Dior, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, have customized and incorporated embroidered patches into their collections, transforming them into symbols of style and individuality. These collections range from custom embroidered patches on jeans, jackets, hats, luxury bags, and shoes.

Why Are Custom Embroidered Patches Carrying the Day?

You might wonder what has kept embroidered patches relevant in the ever-changing fashion landscape from the late sixties to date. Well, it all comes down to the ability to customize embroidered patches to suit and express individual fashion tastes, affiliations, beliefs, and identities of different eras.

Custom embroidered patches allow you to explore your fashion expression while still looking classy in the latest fashion trends. Ideally, you can freely decide the image, color, size, and shape, hence resonating and identifying with the design. More to it, custom embroidered patches are affordable, allowing you to express your artistic touch at an affordable price.

Additionally, custom embroidered patches offer fashion brands the advantage of creating unique pieces that set them apart. They can be produced at an affordable price, yet significantly elevate the perceived value of the garment.  

Final Take

The history of embroidered patches clearly shows their ability to survive numerous fashion changes over the decades. They remain a timeless fashion item in our societies, and with increased technological advancements, we can expect nothing less in the future. It’s not too late to start being creative. Let THE/STUDIO help you bring your unique vision to life and elevate your brand, team, or personal style with a unique patch that reflects your distinct identity.