Sequins are disk-shaped beads used for decorative purposes. In earlier centuries they were made from shiny metals. Today sequeins are most often made from plastic. Today they are available in a wide variety of colors and geometrical shapes. Sequins are commonly used on clothing, jewelry, bags, shoes and lots of other accessories. Sequins are sometimes also referred to as spangles, paillettes, or diamantes. Paillettes themselves are commonly very large and flat.