paillette
Definition
Noun: - A small, thin, often shiny piece of material, typically metal or plastic, used as a decorative ornament, especially on clothing or in embroidery. It is similar to a sequin but often larger or more ornate, and may also refer to a spangle used in glass or ceramic work.
Usage Examples
- (Small decorative spangles on the dress.)
- (A decorative ornament used in sewing.)
Advanced Usage
"paillette work": a technique in embroidery or textile decoration where paillettes are attached to fabric.
- The designer specialised in intricate paillette work for haute couture dresses. (The use of paillettes in detailed embroidery.)
In glassmaking: a paillette can refer to a small, flat piece of glass or metal fused into the surface of a ceramic piece for decorative effect.
- The artisan added a gold paillette to the vase before firing it in the kiln. (A decorative element in ceramics.)
Variants and Related Words
- Pailletted (adj): adorned with paillettes.
- Her pailletted handbag caught the light as she walked. (Decorated with small shiny ornaments.)
Synonyms
- Sequin: a small, shiny disk sewn onto clothing for decoration, often interchangeable with paillette but typically smaller.
- Spangle: a small, glittering ornament, similar to a paillette, used in decorative sewing.
Related Idioms