Embroidery is one of the oldest arts in human history, and also one of the most enduring. No matter if we’re talking about the 1950s, 1930s, or even the 1800s, every era has its own distinctive embroidery style, reusing and transforming past trends.
But did you know that embroidery in clothing is more alive than ever in 2024? Current aesthetic trends, including vintage-inspired garments with unique statement pieces, as well as romantic and cottagecore styles, are keeping this art form thriving.
In this article, we will dive into the embroidery trend, its rich history, and how you can incorporate it into your wardrobe today. Once you see how embroidery can elevate your clothes and outfits, you’ll be ready to say goodbye to printed T-shirts forever!
A Blast From the Past: The History Behind Embroidery
The first historical records of embroidery date back to Ancient China, around 700 BCE.Â
However, other archaeological discoveries place its origins in the Middle East much earlier, approximately 30,000 BCE. That said, historians agree that the date of origin should be attributed to China, as they are garments stitched with vibrant colours and striking designs, resembling something more similar to what we know today as embroidery.
During the early 1800s, embroidery became a hallmark of the upper classes. This wasn’t because the process itself was expensive but because it required women with enough leisure time to create it. Women working in the fields couldn’t produce intricate embroidery, but those in the aristocracy, with a staff of workers managing their households, could.
The art of embroidery gained popularity not only for the beauty of the final results and its ability to elevate any garment to a new level of luxury and elegance but also because it was addictive. It has since been proven that repetitive movements, such as sewing or knitting, have a calming effect on people, making it an ideal hobby.
All this contributed to embroidery standing the test of time. Even though it ceased to be a status symbol, from the early 1900s to the 1950s, it remained a popular hobby for women, and embroidered garments became more accessible to a broader audience.
By the 1980s, with the boom of synthetic fabrics and printed T-shirts dominating the fashion scene, embroidery saw a decline. However, with the resurgence of trends like romantic style and cottagecore, it is now making a stronger comeback than ever.
The Rising Trend: Why Embroidery Is Making a Comeback
Remember what we said about the relaxing effect of embroidery? Well, that’s one of the factors contributing to its resurgence in the artistic sphere. More and more people are choosing to play music or their favourite TV show in the background, sit on the couch, and pass the needle and thread through embroidery hoops.
From this, people are creating fabrics to use as decorations or gifts, or even to embellish other garments. For example, embroidered pieces are often used as patches on denim clothing or jackets. It has also become a popular gift for special occasions, like Mother’s Day, especially when paired with embroidered messages alongside designs such as flowers, birds, and more.
Beyond this passionate return to embroidery as a hobby or a moment of relaxation (no longer exclusive to women), it is also transforming into a fashion statement. Embroidery again appears on garments like cardigans, blouses, sweaters, and jackets.
In this triumphant comeback, embroidered pieces are often paired with basic, neutral-coloured garments to allow the embroidery to shine and stand out. Embroidered clothing leans towards a more conservative style compared to current trends like Y2K or grunge, but it still manages to retain a notable freshness and youthful charm.
If you’re interested in learning more about this beautiful and remarkable craft, check out the and the Embroiders Guild or the Royal School of Needlework
Why Embroidered Blouses and Knitwear Are a Wardrobe Must-HaveÂ
More and more people are wearing embroidered clothing for various occasions, as it’s an easy way to add an elegant and standout touch to any outfit. You don’t need to wear a blazer or the most expensive trousers—embroidered garments will elevate your look to the next level.
Embroidered blouses are perfect for summer when it can be challenging to wear clothes that make you feel stylish in the heat. The great thing about these blouses is that the fabrics are light and breathable, while the embroidery makes them stand out more than a basic T-shirt.Â
Currently, we have the Hilla Luxury Blouse available on our website. It’s versatile enough to wear in autumn or winter when layered with jackets or cardigans, and in heated indoor spaces, you won’t have any issues.
Embroidery also enhances knitwear, making it a must-have for your wardrobe this winter.Â
These pieces are perfect for a day of shopping in the city, going to the office or class, or even taking a countryside walk—especially when paired with a wax gilet.
We offer a variety of embroidered knitwear to suit all tastes. For a more classic style, the AMANDA Pheasants Round Neck Top in burgundy is always a great choice. If you’d like to showcase a shirt or light blouse underneath, we recommend the AMANDA Foxes V-Neck Top or the AMARA Pheasants Sleeveless Top.
Craftsmanship Meets Fashion: The Care and Quality Behind Our Embroidered Pieces
We take great pride in our work, which is why all our garments meet the highest quality standards – from production to the moment you receive your new favourite piece. This commitment is no exception when it comes to embroidery, a technique that inherently requires delicacy and precision.
If a garment isn’t embroidered correctly, the designs are more likely to become damaged over time, especially without proper care during washing and drying. That’s why we ensure our artisanal embroidery not only protects the delicate fabrics it’s applied to – mainly blouses and knitwear – but also stands the test of time.
Unlike an embroidered piece you might buy from a fast-fashion retailer, at Hartwell, you’ll find garments crafted with the care needed to last. These pieces are made to accompany your best outfits for many wears to come.
Live well, Dress well, Hartwell.
