In 2025, our team of decoration experts attended a lot of tradeshows and met with many customers. Through it all, one thing was abundantly clear: in the world of decoration, what’s old is new again.

Old-school looks like chenille and headwear patches are among the latest trending decoration styles. Both enable personalization, add an extra tactile factor and lean into nostalgia. Let’s take a closer look and compare their benefits and features.

The Classic Varsity Vibe of Chenille

The story of chenille patches dates back to American universities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. When high school students lettered in a sport or club, the first thing many of them did was take the chenille letter and put it on a varsity jacket.

By the mid-20th century, chenille’s popularity had spread. It became associated not only with sports, but also with youth culture, music, and rebellion. Musicians and fashion-forward communities embraced the bold, tactile designs to create statement looks.

Chenille patches are now often seen on denim jackets, hoodies, handbags and even limited-edition sneakers. Their retro roots give them a nostalgic appeal, and their versatility makes them relevant across generations.

Here are a few key features of chenille patches:

• Comfortable and stylish
• Popular with men and women
• Adds a unique tactile element to your designs
• Upcycles old garments, aligning with sustainable fashion goals

Traditional chenille offers a cozy, warm, and luxurious feel for sweaters and other apparel, while less plush, “tailored” chenille can achieve a sophisticated look.

If you’re ready to get started with chenille patches, take a look at Stahls’, Royal American Mills or Chenille Appeal.

The Sophisticated Touch of Patches on Hats

Patches were originally popularized by military and sports culture. They now serve as a canvas for self-expression and have become a defining trend for headwear in particular.

In recent years, brands and consumers alike have embraced the DIY vibe, with iron-on or stitched patches turning basic caps into statement pieces. This trend aligns with the broader movement toward customization and vintage-inspired fashion, where individuality and storytelling through accessories are highly valued.

Whether it’s a retro logo, a pop culture reference, or a minimalist design, the many options for patches make caps more than just functional—they’re personal!

We’re not limited to embroidery either—patches come in many varieties:

• Embroidered Patches – The OG favorite: classic, durable, and versatile
• PVC Patches – Waterproof and perfect for outdoor gear
• Chenille Patches – That soft varsity-letter style everyone loves
• Leather Patches – Sleek, premium, and ideal for accessories
• Sublimated Patches – High-res photo prints on fabric
• Woven Patches – Clean and detailed for small-text designs
• Applique Patches – Multiple fabrics layered for texture
• Sequin Patches – For sparkle lovers and nightlife fashion
• Printed Patches – Modern and budget-friendly

There are almost as many patch suppliers as there are different kinds of patches. Get started with Flex Systems, Penn Emblem, Stahls’, World Emblem and FiberLok.

Patches Connect Classic Tradition with Modern Style

The resurgence of chenille and headwear patch embellishments reflects a broader trend toward personalization, nostalgia and tactile design. These elements not only add depth and character to garments but also serve as powerful storytelling tools for brands and consumers alike.

As fashion continues to embrace individuality and heritage, chenille and hat patches are poised to remain key players in both streetwear and premium collections, bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary style.

If you have any questions about patches, or any other apparel decoration style, contact the SanMar decorator solutions team. We’re here to help!