The Surprisingly Recent History of Pockets
Pockets, those ubiquitous fabric pouches we take for granted, seem like they’ve always been a part of clothing. After all, where else would we keep our phones, wallets, and keys? However, the story of pockets is far more recent and fascinating than you might imagine. Their evolution reflects not just fashion trends but also social and economic shifts.
From Pouches to Built-Ins
The concept of carrying personal belongings predates pockets by millennia. In ancient times, people used pouches or bags tied to their belts or worn under their garments. These were essential for carrying coins, tools, and other necessities. Think of the medieval money bag or the Roman sinus, a fold in the toga used as a makeshift pocket.
The move toward integrated pockets began in the late Middle Ages, around the 15th century. As clothing became more tailored and fitted, there was less space for external pouches. Pockets started as slits in gowns or doublets (men’s jackets), allowing access to pouches worn underneath. These were essentially ‘hidden’ pockets, more for security than convenience.
A Tale of Two Pockets: Men vs. Women
The real turning point came in the 17th century. Pockets began to be sewn directly into men’s clothing. Coats, breeches, and vests all featured pockets of varying sizes and shapes. This development was a major step toward the modern pocket as we know it. Men now had a convenient and relatively secure way to carry personal items.
However, the story for women was quite different. While men’s pockets were becoming more integrated, women continued to rely on detachable pockets tied around the waist and worn under their skirts. These pockets were accessed through slits in the skirt seams. They were quite large and could hold a surprising number of items.
Interestingly, these detachable pockets became symbols of independence and privacy. Women could easily transfer their pockets from one outfit to another, and they could also remove them altogether, taking their personal belongings with them. This gave them a degree of control over their possessions in a time when women had limited rights.
The French Revolution and the Demise of Detachable Pockets
The French Revolution in the late 18th century brought about significant changes in fashion. Simpler, more streamlined styles became popular, influenced by classical Greek and Roman attire. The voluminous skirts that had accommodated detachable pockets were replaced by slimmer silhouettes. As a result, women’s pockets began to shrink and were often sewn into the seams of dresses or relegated to small reticules (small handbags).
This shift marked a decline in women’s pocket space. While men continued to enjoy the convenience of built-in pockets, women’s clothing often lacked practical pockets for centuries. This disparity has been linked to social expectations and gender roles. Men were seen as active and needing to carry tools or money, while women were often portrayed as more passive and less in need of pockets.
The Pocket Renaissance
In the 20th and 21st centuries, there has been a growing demand for functional pockets in women’s clothing. The rise of feminism and the increasing participation of women in the workforce have fueled this demand. Women want clothing that is both stylish and practical, with pockets that can hold their phones, keys, and other essentials.
Designers are increasingly responding to this demand, incorporating larger and more functional pockets into women’s clothing. Cargo pants, dresses with hidden pockets, and jackets with ample storage are becoming more common. The pocket, once a symbol of male privilege, is now becoming a symbol of female empowerment.
Fun Facts and Pocket Trivia
- The word ‘pocket’ comes from the Old Northern French word ‘poque’, meaning ‘bag’.
- In the 17th and 18th centuries, pickpockets were a major problem in cities. Skilled thieves could deftly remove items from people’s pockets without them even noticing.
- Some historical pockets were incredibly elaborate, featuring embroidery, lace, and other decorative elements.
- The ‘pocket veto’ is a term used in US politics to describe a situation where the president effectively vetoes a bill by not signing it before Congress adjourns.
The Takeaway
The history of pockets is a surprising reflection of social, economic, and gender dynamics. What was once a simple pouch has evolved into an integral part of our clothing and a symbol of convenience, independence, and even empowerment. So, the next time you reach into your pocket, take a moment to appreciate the long and fascinating journey it has taken to get there.