Fashion Terms — the Apparel Search fashion terminology directory
Notions are the wide range of small, often decorative and functional sewing supplies and accessories used in the construction and finishing of garments and textiles: buttons, zippers, snaps, hooks and eyes, ribbons, lace, thread, bias tape, elastic and trims. They are the bits and pieces that bring a garment together, adding both aesthetic and practical elements, and they are also referenced as components, trim or trimming. The word comes from the Latin notio, an idea, and has been used for sewing and haberdashery supplies since the 19th century.
In the clothing industry, the term "notions" refers to a wide range of small, often decorative, and functional sewing supplies and accessories used in the construction and finishing of garments and textiles. Notions are the various bits and pieces that help bring a garment together and add both aesthetic and practical elements to the finished product. These items include but are not limited to buttons, zippers, snaps, hooks and eyes, ribbons, lace, thread, bias tape, elastic, and trims.
Here on Apparel Search we often reference these items as either "components", "trim" or "trimming" and "notions".
History of the Term "Notions":
The word "notions" in the context of sewing and crafting has a long history, dating back to the 14th century. It originated from the Latin word "notio," meaning "a mental concept" or "idea." Over time, it evolved to encompass the idea of small, miscellaneous items that serve various purposes. The term "notions" was first used to refer to sewing and haberdashery supplies in the 19th century, becoming associated with the various odds and ends needed for sewing projects.
Importance to Clothing Manufacturers:
Notions play a crucial role in the clothing manufacturing process for several reasons:
Functionality: Notions like zippers, buttons, and snaps are essential for creating functional closures in garments. They allow wearers to put on and take off clothing easily and securely.
Aesthetics: Decorative notions such as lace, trims, and ribbons add visual appeal to garments, enhancing their design and style. These elements can transform a basic piece into a unique and attractive creation.
Tailoring and Fit: Notions like elastic, hook and eye closures, and bra sliders are indispensable for achieving a proper fit and comfort in clothing. They allow adjustments to accommodate different body shapes and sizes.
Quality and Durability: Using high-quality notions is essential to ensure the longevity and durability of garments. Well-made zippers and buttons, for example, can withstand repeated use and washing.
Brand Identity: Notions can be a signature feature of a clothing brand. Unique or custom-designed buttons, labels, and trims can help establish brand identity and set garments apart from competitors.
Customization: Notions provide opportunities for customization. Clothing manufacturers can choose from a wide array of buttons, trims, and other details to tailor garments to specific markets or customer preferences.
Sustainability: Sustainable notions, such as recycled buttons or eco-friendly closures, align with the growing demand for environmentally responsible clothing production.
Notions are essential components of the clothing industry, offering functionality, aesthetics, and customization options for clothing manufacturers. By selecting the right notions and paying attention to quality and design, clothing manufacturers can create garments that meet the needs and preferences of consumers while achieving their brand's unique style and identity.
Find manufacturers of Notions in our manufacturing section.
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Learn about additional clothing manufacturing terminology.
Notions are one of the easiest places for a brand to sign its work. A custom-designed button, a signature label or a distinctive trim sets a garment apart from competitors using stock hardware, and manufacturers choose from a wide array of buttons, trims and details to tailor a garment to a specific market or customer preference. Decorative notions — lace, ribbons and trims — can transform a basic piece into a unique one, which is why notion selection happens at design stage, not as an afterthought in production.
The sustainability conversation reaches notions too. Recycled buttons, eco-friendly closures and responsibly sourced trims align a garment with the growing demand for environmentally responsible production, and because notions are small and numerous, their material choices multiply across a production run. Specifying notions with the same care as the main fabric — function, durability, fit, identity and material impact together — is what separates a garment that merely looks finished from one that stays finished.
Any of the small supplies that construct and finish a garment: buttons, zippers, snaps, hooks and eyes, ribbons, lace, thread, bias tape, elastic and trims. The same items are also called components or trimming in the clothing industry.
Because notions carry the garment's working parts. A well-made zipper or button withstands repeated use and washing, while a failing closure makes the whole garment unwearable — and notions such as elastic, hook and eye closures and bra sliders are what make fit and comfort adjustable.
From the Latin notio, meaning a mental concept or idea, by way of the sense of small miscellaneous items serving various purposes. It was first used for sewing and haberdashery supplies in the 19th century.