The new frontiers of sequins

Credit: Valentino

 

The English-speaking world calls them «sequins», an Anglicization of the Italian zecchini—the coins that wealthy Venetians used to sew onto their clothes to avoid losing them. This tradition marked the beginning of the trend of embroidering the most precious garments with shiny metallic discs. From the Roaring Twenties of The Great Gatsby to today, via the glam of the Seventies and Eighties, sequins have evolved in materials and shapes, without ever ceasing to illuminate the creations of both Italian and international designers. These designers have used them to bring to life dreamlike decorations of extraordinary beauty and complexity.

 

In the upcoming season especially, sequins take center stage—whether for classic gowns or bold, irreverent designs. One example: Valentino’s long dress where sequins become luxurious pixels composing the face of a cat, rendered with the fidelity of a digital print.

 

Or they evolve in substance, becoming more environmentally friendly, as seen with Stella McCartney’s use of «Sequinova», made from bio-based cellulose material and fully biodegradable.

 

They’re also innovative in how they’re applied. In Rick Owens’ Spring/Summer 26 menswear collection, the sequins are coated in latex and then hand-brushed.

 

And on a technical level? Among the most interesting process innovations is the «Ponte Laser SL10» by SEIT Elettronica. With this technology, sequins are no longer applied in the traditional way but are cut from laminated sheets and fixed directly onto the leather, fabric, or garment. The laser cuts custom shapes or engraves details—logos, complex patterns, 3D effects—without limits of creativity or material. The result? Personalized decorations, finely detailed, created in a short time and without damaging the underlying materials.