Over the past few years, embroidered patches have been seen making a strong comeback in the fashion industry, particularly in streetwear. These colourful, textured patches that were found primarily on scout uniforms, biker jackets, or on military uniforms are now being spotted on regular hoodies, jeans, hats, and trainers.
Their comeback in the fashion industry, particularly in the world of streetwear culture, is not a temporary phase but a nostalgic moment, a self-identification, and a creative do-it-yourself attitude. So, why are embroidered patches making a comeback and becoming a trend in urban fashion today? This blog will discuss in depth how embroidered patches are increasing in popularity every day.
What Are Embroidered Patches?
Thread-stitched pieces of cloth with patterns are called embroidered patches. They can feature numerous things, including:
- Phases
- Pictures
- Patterns
- Logos
- Symbols
Patches are created using embroidery machines with predesigned layouts sewn in threads onto a base fabric, giving it a typical “Raised” & “Textured” feeling due to the embroidered stitching. These patches can be sewn or stuck to clothing permanently or temporarily. Their popularity lies in their ability to provide style, distinctions, and creativity to otherwise dull clothing.
A Brief History of Embroidered Patches
Embroidered patches have been around the world for centuries. They were initially used in the military as a way to signify ranks and units. Over the years, they found their way into mainstream fashion. Patches were started being used on denim jackets and bell-bottom jeans during the 1960s and 1970s.
They were then used as custom embroidered patches during the punk movement, but then silently left the world of fashion. In recent years, they have made a wild entry and taken over the market as they provide a great blend of nostalgia and modernity to fashion enthusiasts.
THE REASON FOR THE RISE OF EMBROIDERED PATCHES IN THE WORLD OF FASHION
Curious to know how these once forgotten patches are now dominating the industry again? Let’s find the reasons behind!
1. Self-Expression & DIY
In streetwear culture, individuality is the key. People don’t tend to wear the generic designs that everyone already has. Instead, they want to stand out. They want their fashion sense and clothes to speak volumes about who they are.
To be able to do that, they incorporate DIY into embroidered patches to create, craft, and customise their clothes however they want to. It allows people to add personal touches to their clothing and accessories. Due to easy application and the option to personalise, the internet is now flooded with tutorials and inspirations for embroidery patches.
2. Nostalgia and Retro Style
Fashion moves in cycles, and the revival of embroidered patches brings a huge wave of nostalgia in the fashion industry. Wearing patches reminds people of the old-fashioned times, dating back to the 70s, 80s, and 90s. During these decades, everyone loved to wear patches on their denim jeans, jackets, backpacks, and caps. Wearing patches reminds people of the old times and lets them reminisce as they combine the old-school fashion with modernity.
3. Versatility Across Clothing and Accessories
The versatility of embroidered patches is also another reason why they are back in the market. Most of them can be attached to anything, such as jeans, hoodies, hats, bags, and even shoes.
This elasticity enables individuals to renew their already existing clothes rather than purchasing new ones. Many people even ask expert designers for a guide to pick the right custom patches to adorn their belongings. It all depends on what clothing or accessory you need the patch to be applied to.
You can transform a simple denim jacket into a statement piece with the help of several patches attached in the right places. Patches have inexhaustible possibilities because they are available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colours. Whether you like strong, colourful, or light, minimalistic designs, there is something that will suit every taste in a patch.
4. Increased Presence Online
Streetwear paired with embroidered patches is taking up the spotlight more than ever, thanks to social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. Many fashion influencers frequently post ideas on how to style their outfit with embroidered patches.
There is even the emergence of online tutorials about how to apply embroidered patches. It is getting popular, especially among younger people who prefer DIY. Due to the ease of self-application, hook and loop, sew-on, and iron on patches in Canada are among the top choices.
The increased spreading of these visuals encourages more people to attempt to use patches themselves. The internet has contributed greatly to the distribution of this trend around the world and its accessibility.
Types of Backing for Embroidery Patches
Embroidery patches have various types of backings to use. Here are the most popular options discussed:
| Types of Backing | Description | Advantages | Uses |
| Sew-on | These are traditionally patched up on clothes by being sewn on manually or with a machine. | Very durable and permanent | Jeans, bags, and jackets |
| Iron-on backing | They have heat-sensitive adhesive backing that is applied using an iron. | Easy to apply, semi-permanent | T-shirts, backpacks, or casual wear |
| Velcro backing | This backing is like having a hook-and-loop fastener, which is easily removed or attached. | Reusable, customisable, and ideal for changing styles | Tactical wear, hats, or jackets |
| Peel & stick | These are like stickers; they stick to a fabric once their backing is peeled off. | Quick to apply, good for temporary use | Kids’ clothes or any light fashion items |
Common Use of Embroidery Patches in Street Wear
Embroidery patches are worn and used in many ways in urban fashion. Here are some of the ways:
- Jackets: Denim and bomber jackets are worn with large patches on the back
- Jeans: Patches add colour and texture to ripped or faded jeans
- Hats and Beanies: Small patches are added upfront, featuring logos for marketing
- Trainers and Shoes: Limited edition shoes and trainers add patches to make them trendy
- Bags and Backpacks: People, especially students, can customise their bags through various eye-catching patches
Benefits of Embroidery Patches
Embroidery patches offer various practical and creative benefits to their users in streetwear fashion. We have discussed a few of them here:
- Customisation: Easily customisable on every clothing or accessory
- Affordability: Instead of buying new clothes, patches allow you to bring life to the old ones
- Durability: Embroidered patch design lasts longer than printed ones
- Sustainability: Patching old clothes encourages reuse and reduces waste
- Creativity: This allows users to design their patches with complete creative freedom
THE FUTURE OF FASHION IS PATCHES
Embroidered patches are more than just a trend; they’re a movement. In a time when people want to be unique, express themselves, and wear patterns that hold meaning or artwork, patches are the perfect choice. They are very user-friendly, functional, and playful. Whether it is fashion, fun, or practicality, patches have carved out a niche in streetwear. As more people move towards personalising their clothes, brands continue to innovate their patch design and materials to ensure they meet the expectations of their consumers.