Fashion has taken some strange turns in American culture, from parachute pants to the unique appeal of Members Only jackets. These sartorial successes were largely the result of people who wanted to express conformity by wearing what was trendy and popular at the time. But one device promised a kind of apparel autonomy the ability to add an accent and flourish to practically any article of clothing in one’s closet.
The Bedazzler.
For those who have never Bedazzled, the Bedazzler exists at a peculiar intersection between home appliance and arts and crafts tool. Placing a piece of clothing between its Tiffany wheel and the plunger and then pressing down results in a stud or rhinestone being applied to the fabric. Given enough studs, one could convert a simple T-shirt or jacket into an explosion of glitter. Crafters looking to tailor their wardrobe could apply as much or as little of the garment garnish as they wanted.