When it comes to fashion a lot of the time functionality and style fail to meet. Pockets are a bit of a phenomenon because they can easily accommodate both. But up until now this hasn’t been the case in womenswear- because women’s clothes don’t seem to have many functional pockets in general. They are either too small or just there as a detail to compliment the rest of the garment.
Ladies - have you ever wondered why you have to always carry a handbag while your boyfriend or boy friend can fit everything in his pockets? Well historically women didn’t have pockets sewn to their garments until the end of the 19th century.
But why?
Well, historically pockets represented independence and this also meant having a property of your own. And prior to the 20th century it was mostly men, who had property and independence.
Pockets are a rather new invention as we know them – particularly in ladies clothes. They gained popularity in the 17th century and while they were sewn onto men’s garments – women had to have separate pockets, which were more of a purse pouches with a string wrapped around the waist and worn under the petticoat. There was a familiar lack of functionality.
Women's pouch pockets - source Wikimedia
Pockets attached to women’s garments came with women’s liberation. The 20th century was a very turbulent and dynamic century in many ways. The role of women has changed dramatically throughout the century even though there is still much to be desired when it comes to female liberation. We have come a long way but there is a long way to go.
I think that the macro pocket trend of summer 2019 is a step in the right direction and I also hope that it is here to stay.
Having clothes that are both functional and beautiful is achievable and this trend shows that. Another good thing about it is that it is very easily something, which can be adapted to your existing clothes. Applying large functional pockets to your already existing clothes can give them a new trendy look and it can set you free from carrying that handbag – unless of course you like that!
So whether you embrace the macro pocket trend or prefer a cute pocket detail - there is something for anyone this season.
And as always - Keep Sailing Forward, Everyone!
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