National Zipper Day celebrates the invention of the zipper, a simple yet essential device that has revolutionized clothing and accessories. This day honors Gideon Sundback, who patented the modern zipper on April 29, 1913.
Quick Facts
- When is it? April 29
- Tagged as: Invention, Fashion, Utility
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalZipperDay
- When was it founded? Unknown
- Who founded it? Unknown
History of National Zipper Day
The zipper’s journey began in 1851 when Elias Howe patented the “Automatic Continuous Clothing Closure.” However, it wasn’t until Gideon Sundback’s 1913 patent for the “Hookless Fastener” that the modern zipper was born. The name “zipper” gained popularity in 1923 when B.F. Goodrich used it for their boots. Over time, zippers became a staple in fashion and utility, thanks to their functionality and ease of use.
Timeline
- 1851: Elias Howe patents the first concept of a zipper.
- 1893: Whitcomb Judson introduces the “Clasp Locker” at the Chicago World’s Fair.
- 1913: Gideon Sundback patents the modern zipper.
- 1923: The term “zipper” becomes popular through B.F. Goodrich’s boots.
- 1970s: Zippers become widely used in jeans by brands like Levi’s.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 29 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 29 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 29 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April 29 | Saturday |
| 2029 | April 29 | Sunday |
| 2030 | April 29 | Monday |
Observed
National Zipper Day is observed by wearing zippered clothing, creating zipper art, or even sewing a zipper into an outfit. Share your celebrations on social media using #NationalZipperDay!
Fun Facts About Zippers
- YKK produces enough zippers annually to wrap around the Earth 50 times.
- Early zippers were used for shoes and tobacco pouches before clothing.
- The U.S. Army was an early adopter of zippers for uniforms and gear.
Quiz
- Who patented the modern zipper?
- What year was the term “zipper” popularized?
- What does YKK stand for?
(Answers: Gideon Sundback; 1923; Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha)
FAQs
Q: Why is YKK on most zippers?
A: YKK stands for Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha, a leading global zipper manufacturer founded in Japan in 1934.
Q: What was the first use of zippers?
A: Initially, zippers were used for shoes and tobacco pouches before becoming common in clothing.
Q: Who invented the first concept of a zipper?
A: Elias Howe patented the first version called “Automatic Continuous Clothing Closure” in 1851.
Importance of National Zipper Day
This day highlights an often-overlooked invention that simplifies our daily lives, from clothing to luggage and beyond. It also serves as a reminder of how innovation can transform everyday tasks into effortless actions.
Related
- National Button Day (November 16)
- National Sewing Machine Day (June 13)