Social media and the internet may have broadened our horizons and exposed us to aesthetics from all over the globe, but it's becoming harder and harder to find something truly unique in a world with limitless information at your fingertips.
One response to this need for individuality has been the humble pin badge, which has popped up on the lapels and collars of style-savvy people all over the globe in recent seasons. If you're not down with pins, then we suggest iron-on patches as an equally fine way of customizing your gear.
Like pins, iron-on patches are an easy - not to mention cheap - way of creating your very own unique product, one that can express your personal interests in the rawest, most direct way. Want to rep your running crew or pledge allegiance to your favorite rapper? Easy.
Here's some patch-adorned pieces from recent seasons - a handy alternative if your ironing (or sewing, for that matter) skills aren't up to scratch, or better yet, some inspiration so you can go patching up your own gear.
Patch Bomber
Daily Paper
Amsterdam's Daily Paper have obviously been thinking the same as us - the young label's FW15 MA-1 bomber was given a sprinkling of patches. If you're wanting something a little more personal, then cop a readily-available army surplus or Alpha Industries piece and get the iron out!
Snapback Cap
Off-White™
Virgil Abloh's SS14 collection featured a ton of patches, which were gratuitously splashed across field jackets, jeans and luggage - although covering a baseball cap with them made for a particularly strong statement piece.
Casey Patch Sweatshirt
Acne Studios
Patches have long been used to pledge allegiance to social and political causes, and Sweden's Acne Studios make a statement with some slogan-adorned sweaters this season.
Patch Pack
FUN TIME
If you're looking for some tongue-in-cheek motifs to add some edge to your gear, then FUN TIME have got you covered.
For more style tips, get on board with Chelsea boots, overcoats and hiking boots.
