The exact history of the first use of hang tags on garments is difficult to pinpoint, as they evolved gradually over time. They probably became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as mass production and industrial manufacturing of clothes increased. With the advent of large department stores and brands, textile manufacturers needed to clearly label the goods for purchase to provide information to shoppers such as prices, sizes, or brand names.
This article provides an overview of the history and development of hang tags and their influence on modern industry.
The Early Beginnings: Predecessors of Hang Tags
The origins of hang tags date back to the 19th century when they were used in their simplest form in the textile and garment trade. The forerunners of the modern version were simple paper tags that were loosely attached to garments or other items with a string, thread, or sometimes even wire. These primitive labels usually contained only basic information on hang tags such as the price or manufacturer's name and lacked that sophisticated design that we are used to nowadays.
Clothing manufacturers, retailers and department stores, especially in the United States, used them on a larger scale. Branding information came over time as the fashion industry became more professional and commercial.
The 1920s to the 1950s: The First Retail Hang Tags
The first professional hang tags as we know them today were created in the 1920s. They were increasingly produced using the then-new offset printing technology. This allowed manufacturers to produce paper tags not only in larger quantities, but also more cost-effectively. Brand and product information started to be added, increasing the importance of the labels in the sales process. In the 1950s, the trend of using hang tags with logo as a means of branding began. Fashion brands in particular drove this development.
The 1960s and 1970s: Custom Hang Tags as a Branding Element
In the 1960s, hang tags underwent a revolution as major businesses increasingly recognized their potential as a branding tool. The information displayed started going beyond just the basics and become more focused on persuading customers to purchase the product . Advances in printing technology allowed for more complex and colorful designs. Hang tags became an integral part of brand identity and helped foster customer loyalty.
Luxury designer brands such as Chanel, Gucci and Louis Vuitton used hang tags to emphasize the exclusivity and quality of their products. They used hang tags to communicate their brand history, craftsmanship and the value of their creations.
The 1980s to 2000s: Technological Advancements and New Materials
In the 1980s and 1990s, technological innovations led to further developments in hang tags, especially in the fields of distribution and logistics. The introduction of barcode technologies made it easier to manage products in the warehouse. Manufacturers also experimented with new materials such as plastic, metal and even wood to increase the longevity and appeal of tags. In the 2000s, QR code, RFID chips appeared in hang tags. It made it possible to track products more easily and even made the buying process easier for the consumer.
Hang Tags as Marketing Tools in Today's Business World
Today, hang tags are an integral part of marketing strategies and many product packages. Used to display crucial information like care instructions, advertise your social media channels and promote discounts, they also play a central role in brand communication.
The history of hang tags shows how they have evolved from simple information labels to an important element of branding and product labeling. With the growth of the fashion industry and the proliferation of department stores, the importance of these visual and informative tools that both communicate the value of a product and reinforces the identity of the brand has also increased.
Today, the production of hang tags is a sophisticated process that heavily focuses on sustainability. Specialist manufacturers such as Wunderlabel use high quality materials and advanced printing techniques to meet the demands of the fashion and retail industries for customized solutions.
