Galloon

Galloon (sometimes spelled galon in British English)[1] is a heavily-decorated woven or braided trim, typically made of, or featuring, gold or silver thread, which may be woven or embroidered. Galloon trim is used in the trim of military and police uniforms, ecclesiastical dress, and as trim on textiles, drapery, and upholstery. Galloon trim may also come in the form of lace, and is typically wide.

Not to be confused with Gallon.
Galloon
Gold galloon trim on the cuffs, pockets, seams and tricorn hat, as worn at the Dutch court
TypeDecorative woven trim
MaterialMetallic gold or silver thread, lace, or embroidery
Galloon trim on the cuffs and chest of a c. 1908 Russian court uniform

In formal evening wear, a non-military usage, this decoration has evolved into satin stripes that conceal the outer seam of men's dress trousers.

The distinction between galloon trim or braid, ribbon, and belting has not always been clear, and a great deal of overlap has occasionally caused problems in classification.[2]

Etymology

The term galloon stems from the French galon, in turn itself from the verb galloner, "to braid".[3]

Examples of gallon braid, trim and lace
  • A length of wide, dark silver lace, featuring scrolls
    Metallic galloon lace in silk and metal thread
  • A length of peach and cream braid, featuring a scroll-and-floral border and a floral insert
    Woven floral galloon trim
  • A length of plain, bright gold braid with a zigzag border
    Golden silk and cotton galloon trim

References
  1. Noted in the Collins Dictionary, with examples, accessed 16 February 2022.
  2. United States. Court of Customs and Patent Appeals (1917). Reports. U.S. Government Printing Office. p. 201.
  3. wikt:galloon

Further reading
  • Abbott, James Archer. Jansen Furniture. Acanathus Press: 2007. ISBN 978-0-926494-45-9.
  • Pegler, Martin. The Dictionary of Interior Design. Fairchild Publications: 1983. ASIN B0006ECV48.
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