It is extremely difficult to attempt to trace an exact history of the blazer badges because there are so many theories about where these items originated from. Even though identifying its origins is a daunting task, there are many people who believe that the origins of this and the blazer badges that adorn them can be traced to about one of two origins.
The first origin story is traced back to the Lady Margaret Boat Club, which was established as far back as 1825 in Cambridge. It is believed that individuals who belonged to this club were expected to uniforms that were decorated with bright scarlet. Because of the colour associated with these uniforms, they are said to have been nicknamed Blazers.
For those who are interested – the club is still around today and its members are required to wear the very same uniform. It is worth noting that while the uniform remains the same, certain privileged members are actually able to add gold buttons onto their uniform, making it all the more fascinating.
It is believed that over time, blazers and the accompanying blazer badges evolved and soon just about everyone was wearing them.
There is another story associated with the rise of the blazer and that is the H.M.S Blazer. Back in the 19th century there was a vessel belonging to the Royal Navy of the same name and at the time, Queen Victoria intended to pay a visit to the ship. Because of the impending visit, the Commander of the vessel was determined to impress the queen and so he ordered that new uniforms be ordered for the special occasion. The commander was especially adamant to change the uniform because he felt that the old one was well below standards.
Eventually, after thinking his options through, the commander picked out a double breasted jacket and include brass buttons that were exclusive to the Royal Navy. At this point in time, the Royal Navy did not yet have standard uniforms and so it was up to the commanders to pick out the uniforms that they felt would be most appropriate.
Even after the visit was complete, the sailors on that particular ship continued to wear what would become known as blazers. It was not long after that, that this article of clothing became extremely popular throughout the country and then later, the rest of the world. It was a matter of time before blazers were being adorned with blazer badges in order to identify rank and status and this is still the case today.
The Evolution of the School Blazer
Schools were some of the first to start making use of blazer badges after the more official organizations, such as the navy. Some of these blazers were made with piping, while others were not. Regardless of how much changed, one thing remained the same – the blazers always came with specific buttons and blazer badges that were especially designed for the school, by the school officials.
Soon after the schools began making use of them, clubs throughout the Commonwealth began making use of them. Around this time, various regiments began using blazer badges to identify their groups, as well as ranking officials within these regiments.
The Striped Blazer
Just like any other item of clothing, the blazer went through a range of changes over time. During the 1920’s, for example, striped blazers were all the rage and it was around this time that the Brooks Brothers began to sell them. These were some of the biggest sellers of blazers and blazer badges in the country and they simply flew off the shelves. It was during the 1960’s that these blazers became extremely popular among younger individuals.
Just like any other item of clothing, the blazer has come a long way since it was first introduced. To this day, both blazers and blazer badges play major roles within various organizations and these can usually be seen on special occasions, particularly weddings, funerals and parades, among others. The blazer appears to be one of those items of clothing that will continue to remain popular for many years to come and so the badges that adorn them will continue to remain as popular.