Have you wondered why women’s pants don’t have pockets? (2024)

Throughout history, women’s pockets have been associated with periods of progress in women’s rights and with greater gender equality.

Some brands even sew pants pockets shut or just put in fake pockets (why?!?). A survey of 80 pairs of men’s and women’s pants found that on average, the pockets in women’s jeans are 48% shorter and 6.5% narrower than men’s pockets, when controlling for pant size. We were intrigued to learn that women’s pocket troubles have political roots and are directly tied to women’s independence. We sum it up below.

In the middle ages women had little pouches sewn into their clothes enabling them to carry things (an old-school “life hack”). These pouches provided so much convenience that women would cut holes in their clothes to better access them. In an era where people rarely bathed and owned only a few articles of clothing, women still prioritized personal storage.

Women’s fashion became more complex and less functional (think-corsets and bustles) and garments were designed to fit more tightly. This meant that women couldn’t hide their pouches as easily beneath their clothing, so they’d carry their belongings around in a garment called a reticule (an early version of the purse).

Have you wondered why women’s pants don’t have pockets? (2)

Researchers believe that this trend stemmed from the growing disparity between the social roles of men and women. Men increasingly worked outside the home and women worked in the household. Because women had less independence and fewer out-of-home responsibilities, designers simply didn’t think they needed pockets. Men carried all the money, documents, and keys (to the patriarchy?), so they were the only ones awarded apparel functionality.

Have you wondered why women’s pants don’t have pockets? (2024)

FAQs

Why do most women's pants not have pockets? ›

In the Victorian era when the modern idea of trousers with pockets for men emerged, a need to distinguish men from women played a big part in guiding the fashion. Women didn't need to carry money. They were not supposed to be financially independent or wield that type of power.

What is the importance of pockets in women's clothing? ›

They were important to women because it was a means to hold possessions at a time when women's right to personal property was legally constrained; it allowed them to keep the small amount of property they owned secure. Women kept small treasurers in them; jewelry, money, food, cakes and even bottles of gin!

Why are women's pants pockets sewn shut? ›

Sewing pockets closed will remove some of the bulk that can occur because of them on the upper thighs of pants and especially of jeans. It can also close the annoying gaping look that pockets often take on when you are in a seated position.

Why were women's pockets phased out? ›

When full petticoats and wide hoops were no longer in style, the sleeker high-waisted gowns that replaced them did not allow for any form of pocket due to how much it would alter the shape of a gown and the smooth silhouette it created. Instead, a decorative purse, known then as a reticule, came into use for women.

What is the pocket in women's pants for? ›

Simply put, it's designed to provide protection and breathability, making your underwear more comfortable and hygienic. The little pocket in panties is sewn around three edges, with an open seam at one end. While not all panties have them—most do! —and they're indeed small, but they offer mighty benefits.

Why do girls have a pocket in their undies? ›

The primary purpose of the gusset is to provide comfort. The gusset provides a breathable and moisture-wicking layer that keeps your sensitive area dry, cool, and ventilated. Not only does this make your underwear much more comfortable, but it also helps to prevent irritation and infections.

Why do women's jeans have fake pockets? ›

By eliminating pockets in key areas, the apparel is able to maintain its aesthetic profile. The practice dates back to the 17th century, when pockets were actually removable bags in dresses that women would carry from one ensemble to the next.

What is the little pocket on women's jeans for? ›

Nowadays, it has no actual use, but back then, in 1873, to be precise, the jeans inventor Levi Strauss solved a particular problem with this tiny pocket: to safely keep the pocket watch.

Are you supposed to open sewn pockets for women's? ›

Are You Supposed to Open Sewn Pockets? Yes, you can choose to open your suit pockets, but it's a personal preference. Open pockets are practical but can affect the suit's shape over time. Keeping them sewn shut maintains a smooth, tailored look.

Why are women's pants pockets smaller than men's? ›

HAVE you ever compared women's clothes to men's and wondered why we get such little pocket space compared to mens roomy pockets? Expert Emily Keller, who has been a fashion designer for 10 years, explained that ladies' pockets are smaller, or often fake, because it cuts costs to reduce the size and fabrics used.

Why are H&M pockets sewn shut? ›

Sewing the pockets shut makes them lay flat. It makes the garment look nicer and keeps the pockets from bulging out. Some people even leave the pockets sewn shut after purchasing to maintain a sleeker look.

What are pants without pockets called? ›

Cargo pants without pockets are called plain pants or pocketless pants. These pants are typically made with a sleek and streamlined design. They are often preferred for their simplicity and clean look. Plain pants are versatile and can be dressed up or down for various occasions.

What is the difference between men's and women's pockets? ›

Their results: pockets in women's jeans are 48% shorter and a slightly narrower than men's pockets. They also found that less than half of women's front pockets can fit a small wallet. I figured that out on my own when I had to ditch my iPhone 6 for something smaller.

Why is there no pocket in a girl's shirt? ›

First reason is that women need to carry a lot more things than men do. And to keep these stuffs, they usually carry a handbag. Hence, having pocket on their shirts is a waste. On the other hand men always need to carry a pen or at best some pieces of paper for which a pocket is sufficient.

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