The degree of understanding of the mechanics of laminated composites depends on the applications and consistency of specific performance. The specialization reached on the subject is reflected on the breadth of available documentation, both in quantity and specific interests. This situation requires a periodic systematization of generated knowledge, with the purpose of supporting this process by linking new people and ideas to what is already built. In this article the current systematization of applied knowledge is presented as a series of ideas, underling the concept of multi-scale nature of the mechanical behavior of composite materials. The role of mechanical and microscopic characterization techniques in building knowledge on the subject is seen throughout the document.