Beaded Garments

Beaded Garments are often highly decorated pieces of clothing with floral or geometric designs on all, or part of the cloth. In the past, it was not unusual for men to wear beaded garments: in fact, the more complex and detailed the decoration, the more highly prized the piece was.

To an ambitious or arrogant nobleman, beaded garments were an essential item, significant status symbols of wealth and power. In many sixteenth century paintings of rulers, very intricate and close beadwork is being worn by the sitters.

Common pieces of attire to be beaded were the waistcoats or trousers. In more modern times, beaded garments have become a less popular item for men, and traditional exuberance of design almost completely disappeared.

Waistcoats and ties may still be beaded garments, but this is not typical, and nor is beading used on everyday items, as it is generally rather expensive and impractical.

Beaded garments such as these could be worn on special occasions: an embroidered waistcoat for the groom at a wedding, for example. Ties would be much cheaper, and could serve as an unusual accessory.

Men’s beaded garments are commonly novelty and speciality items which are not worn on a daily basis. Antique items such as waistcoats or shirts, which may be good quality cloth, can also have beads missing or damage to the embroidery.

Beaded garments which are sold second hand may also demand closer inspection to make sure that there is no damage. Small losses will be repairable, and antique or second hand bead patterns may be more attractive and better planned.

As well as this, modern beads used in clothes making are plastic or synthetic, while antique beaded clothes will be made with traditional glass or metal beads, adding an extra touch of luxury to the garment.