From Bloomers to Trousers: A Century of Pants in British Women's Attire
British women's fashion has undergone significant changes over the past two centuries. The evolution of women wearing pants in Britain is a fascinating journey, reflecting social, economic, and cultural shifts. When did British women start wearing pants? This article explores the history and changing perceptions of pants in British women's fashion from the 19th century to the present day.
Early Influences: 19th Century
The journey of Britonic women wearing pants began in the 1850s and 1860s, when early feminists began adopting bloomers as part of the women's rights movement. Bloomers were loose-fitting pants that replaced the restrictive dresses of the time. However, this style was met with ridicule and was not widely accepted.
The Great War: 1914-1918
The First World War (1914-1918) marked a turning point. With men joining the forces, women took up roles traditionally held by men. This meant that they worked in factories and farms, where uniforms and practical clothing, such as pants, were essential. The need for comfort and functionality led to a more practical acceptance of trousers by women in various industries.
1920s: Fashion Revolution
The 1920s saw a significant shift in women's fashion, with more daring styles emerging. Coco Chanel's influence was crucial in popularizing trousers for women, albeit mainly among the fashionable elite. However, pants were still not a common choice for everyday wear.
The Mid-20th Century: Increased Acceptance
By the 1940s and 1950s, pants had become more acceptable for women, particularly in casual settings. The rise of Hollywood and the influence of influential actresses wore pants contributed to a changing public perception. Studios such as Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) and the unsurpassable influence of actresses like Grace Kelly played a role in this shift.
The 1960s and 1970s: The Feminist Movement
The feminist movement further propelled the acceptance of pants in daily life. Flared trousers and later more tailored looks became mainstream, reflecting the growing independence and changing roles of women in society. The feminist movement championed women's rights and gender equality, contributing to the widespread adoption of trousers.
Contemporary Acceptance: Late 20th Century and Beyond
By the late 20th century, trousers had become a standard part of women's wardrobes across all social and professional settings in Britain. They are now worn in formal, professional, and casual environments alike, reflecting societal acceptance and the evolution of women's fashion.
The Second World War and Beyond
During the Second World War, men joined the forces, and women stepped up in the workforce. They worked in factories and farms, often in roles that required practical clothing. Trousers were more suitable for the work environment and solving practical issues, such as the lack of silk or nylon stockings, further solidified their place.
One anecdote highlights the dual acceptance and resistance to women wearing pants. In the early 1970s, Bella Jenkinson began editing a house newspaper for a very traditional life assurance company. Trousers on ladies were still considered a novelty. However, in 1963, trousers were officially forbidden for permanent female staff. Yet, when temporary typists from agencies started wearing slacks, the company found it difficult to maintain the ban. By 1963, the cold winter had likely also played a role in loosening the strict enforcement as the company found it impractical to keep continuing the ban.
Today, women's pants in Britain are a symbol of progress and equality, reflecting the journey from social ridicule to widespread acceptance. The history of women wearing pants is a testament to the changing roles of women in British society and the long journey towards gender equality.