The origins of pockets
Let’s throw it back to the 1600s and 1700s. Back then women didn’t sew pockets into their dresses. Instead, they tied pouches around their waists, tucked under layers of skirts. Meanwhile, men had been enjoying sewn-in pockets with their tailored coats back then too.
As fashion evolved, women’s silhouettes started getting tighter and more “feminine” in the 1800s. Aka bulky hidden pouches were out. And yes, instead of bothering to include real pockets in sleeker designs, most designers decided to just forego the need to add any.
And if that wasn’t bad enough, designers also leaned into the idea that women didn’t need pockets. They had handbags, husbands, and no reason to carry important things. Even fashion legend Christian Dior himself once said, “Men have pockets to keep things in, women for decoration.”
A few reports even state that during the French Revolution era, some women were banned from wearing pockets—because they might carry political pamphlets or messages. But, during the World War, women started working, wearing uniforms and actual, functional pockets. It was short-lived, though. As soon as the war ended, pockets disappeared again. Feminine fashion made a big comeback, and roomy clothing was replaced with cinched waists, pencil skirts, and handbags.
The history of women’s pockets
As the 20th century gained momentum, mass manufacturing further took women away from pockets. Smaller or fake pockets meant easier production and less fabric, which meant more profits. And since it’s always been about aesthetic in women’s fashion, pockets weren’t all that missed anyway. Believe it or not, even today, the average pair of women’s jeans has pockets that are 48% shorter than men’s and often can’t even hold a phone.
Thankfully, the tide seems to be finally turning, with designers finally paying attention. From high fashion to slow fashion brands, real pockets are starting to show up again—not as a “bonus,” but as a basic right.
