Where did elbow patches come from?

Where did elbow patches come from?

Elbow patches have become a re-emerging fashion trend in modern-day menswear. This idea originated among university professors; patches were sewn as the fabric in the elbow region of jackets wore out from daily use. As a result, this revelation prolonged the life of one’s favorite garment.

Why do suits have elbow patches?

Elbow patches originated out of necessity; the were placed to repair worn out elbows on jackets. They were typically found on country jackets used for hunting and outdoor activities. Such jackets were made of tweed and would last forever except they would wear out at the elbows because of rubbing over time.

Why do professors have patches on their elbows?

Elbow patches originated because the elbows were where the jacket wore out first, and professors living in genteel poverty weren’t able (or couldn’t be arsed) to get a new jacket when that happened. Likewise, most blue jeans are now sold “pre-distressed” so it looks like you’ve owned them for years and years.

What are the elbow patches on jackets called?

It’s actually not what you would think. Elbow patches are called elbow patches. They don’t actually have a name in a fashion dictionary, but they serve a multitude of purposes. Okay, and we’ve just done a quick costume change, as you can see, Steve the mannequin is wearing a cardigan with elbow patches on it.

Why are there elbow patches on tweed jacket?

Elbows are a high wear area. Tweed jackets were originally worn for sport, work and hunting and again, elbows wore out so people put patches over the wear spots.

Why do some sweaters have shoulder patches?

They were originally designed to keep back packs, ammunition pouches or bayonets from slipping off the shoulder. They often display badges of rank, shoulder marks, regimental insignia or epaulettes.

How Big Should elbow patches be?

Typically an elbow patch is an oval shape that is around 6 to 7 inches long. If you know you have extremely long arms, you may want to go for 7 inches but for a regular length, go for 6 inches.

Where was tweed invented?

Scotland
Tweed originated in rural Scotland and is still produced there. Its name reflects both its weave and its national origins. Initially, “tweed” was a misreading of tweel (the Scots form of twill). This misapprehension was aided by the cloth’s association with the River Tweed.

Why do military uniforms have epaulettes?

However, their direct origin lies in the bunches of ribbons worn on the shoulders of military coats at the end of the 17th century, which were partially decorative and partially intended to prevent shoulder belts from slipping.

What is the purpose of epaulettes?

Epaulettes, from epaule an old French word for shoulder, seem to have started out as cloth straps worn on the shoulders to help keep shoulder sashes and belts in position. Another story has them beginning as pieces of armor to protect the shoulders.