An eyelet is a metal (less often plastic) ring that frames and reinforces a hole in fabric, to thread a lace, strap or cord through it, or simply as a decorative element. An eyelet prevents the fabric from tearing around the hole and gives it a crisp, neat look. Historically eyelets came from corsets, footwear, work and marine gear (sails, awnings), and later became both a functional and a decorative fashion detail. Rows of eyelets with lacing are a characteristic mark of corset, military and punk styles. An eyelet may be small and inconspicuous or large, metal, pronounced. An eyelet is a functional-decorative ring detail, in which a reinforced hole in fabric combines a practical role (lacing, ventilation, strength) with a characteristic industrial décor, recognisable in corsets, footwear and military aesthetics.
