The History, Meaning, and Styling of the Delta Sigma Theta Shield

The History and Meaning of the DST Shield

The DST shield is an important symbol within the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. As one of the Divine Nine Black Greek-letter organizations, Delta Sigma Theta has a rich history dating back over 100 years.

The sorority was founded in 1913 by 22 trailblazing Black women at Howard University who wanted to use their collective strength to promote academic excellence and provide assistance to persons in need. The DST shield pays homage to their vision.

The Elements of the DST Shield

The DST shield features a horizontal shield divided into three sections. The top portion has five points representing the Sorority's Five Point Thrust of economic development, educational development, international awareness and involvement, physical and mental health, and political awareness and involvement.

The middle portion depicts a map of the continent of Africa, recognizing the Sorority's commitment to Pan-Africanism. The bottom portion shows the Roman fasces, a bundle of wooden rods featuring an axe in the center. This signifies unity, strength, and wisdom.

The crimson red color of the shield represents the blood shed by generations of Africans who lost their lives to slavery and oppression. The shield's gold coloring signifies the Sorority's aim to achieve greater liberation and empowerment.

Evolution of the DST Shield Design

In the early years after the Sorority's founding, members wore badges featuring a cluster of five pearls to represent the organization's principles. The first official Delta shield was approved in 1917, just four years after the Sorority's creation.

The original shield contained the five pearls along with a small image of clasped hands and the Greek letters Delta Sigma Theta. Over the years, it evolved into a more elaborate design before taking its current form.

The Significance of the Shield in Delta Culture

For over a century, the shield has stood as the core icon symbolizing Delta Sigma Theta and its enduring sisterhood. For Deltas, wearing Delta apparel printed with the shield design demonstrates a sense of pride, belonging, and identification with the organization's goals.

Wearing the Letters With Pride

Sorority insignia holds deep meaning for members, symbolizing their lifelong bonds. Deltas often sport shirts, jackets, bags, and other items featuring their Greek letters and shield.

Casual basics like hoodies printed with "DST" allow members to rep their organization while running errands or lounging at home. Showing love for your sisterhood never goes out of style.

Representing at Events

Deltas boldly display their affiliation at official functions like regional conferences, community service activities, celebrations, graduations and more. Signature shield designs shine on custom mascot jackets, honor stoles, and commemorative apparel.

Visually cohesive group presentations demonstrate the strength and pride of Delta at public gatherings. Displaying the Delta shield in strategic colors and placements spotlights their collective identity.

2022 Trends in Delta Shield Fashions

Today's styles allow Deltas to creatively integrate their beloved shield into fashion-forward looks. Modern interpretations through fabric patterns, embellishments, color blocking and garment silhouettes put a stylish spin on this timeless symbol.

Digital Shield Prints

Digital textile printing techniques allow for photo-realistic clarity in rendering the shield image onto fabric. Crisp and vivid shield representations get presented in engineered allover prints on knits and woven garment bodies.

Artistic adaptations place an oversized shield within dynamic backgrounds. Abstract painterly florals and contemporary camo updates usher the iconic crest into new realms.

Creative Embellishments

Innovative applications showcase shield cut-outs, patches, embroidery, beading, piping and appliques for unexpected flourishes. Dimensional finishes like metallic, glitter, foil and holographic accents emphasize the emblem for standout shine.

Plush velvet shields stitched or printed onto jacket backs and hoods bring luxe tactile dimension. Crystals, rhinestones, and custom charms offer icy opulence when adorning bags, shoes, accessories and activewear.

Color Block Styling

Strategic color placements creatively transform the shield motif across fashion categories. Color-blocked shield representations get constructed through precise paneling and piecing techniques for dresses, swimwear and bridal designs.

Ombre patterns decorate t-shirt bodies to spotlight Delta's signature crimson and cream hues. Variegated color spectra applied to activewear illuminate the shield through fluid fades and color transitions.

Interpreting this storied emblem across garment genres demonstrates the visionary sisterhood and empowerment Delta Sigma Theta represents for generations past, present and future.

FAQs

What does the DST shield symbolize?

The DST shield symbolizes unity, strength, wisdom, and the enduring sisterhood of Delta Sigma Theta sorority. Its elements represent the organization's goals, principles, and commitment to service.

When was the first Delta Sigma Theta shield created?

The first official DST shield was approved in 1917, four years after the sorority was founded. It has evolved over the decades into its current elaborate design.

Why do Deltas wear clothing with the shield emblem?

Wearing Delta apparel with the shield design demonstrates pride in their sisterhood and shared identity. It allows members to visibly represent Delta Sigma Theta.

What are some current fashion trends using the shield?

Some current styles include photo-realistic digital prints, creative embellishments like embroidery or beading, strategic color blocking, and customized accessories showcasing the iconic shield.