Definition Paper- Revised

Sequins in the Spotlight

            They can be found everywhere and serve many different purposes.  From embellishing the ruby slippers that Judy Garland wore in the Wizard of Oz, to being worn in many cultures to distract and deflect evil spirits, sequins are a very popular accessory.

            Sequins have been around for centuries, dating back to Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece.  We usually think of sequins as pieces of shiny plastic, but they were originally made of coins.  Tiny holes were drilled into the coins and they were attached to clothing.  Archaeologists have even found mummified pharaohs wrapped in sequined cloth.  Gypsies brought sequins over to Europe, often wearing coins sewn on their clothing.  The “purpose” of wearing these sequins was to demonstrate wealth and power.

            The Funk and Wagnalls Standard College Dictionary defines the term sequin as:

1.    A small coinlike ornament sewn on clothing

2.    An obsolete gold coin of the Venetian republic, later introduced into Turkey: also called zecchino

            The word “sequin” can be traced to the Arabic word “sikka,” meaning coin. “Sikkas” were used for centuries to decorate clothing throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean.  In Venice, Italy during the thirteenth century, people produced coins called “zecchinos” to embellish clothing.  The French adapted this word to “sequin,” which we now use today.

            Sequins have become very popular on all types of clothing and accessories, including wedding dresses, prom dresses, purses, and even on shoes.  I had sequins on almost every one of my dance costumes and also on clothes when I was younger.  Sometimes, though, fashion designers can go overboard with sequins and make outfits look very cheap, but overall, sequins really help to brighten up an outfit and give it a pretty glow or sparkle..  Sequins have not gone out of style and will definitely continue to be used in the future.