Many fashion designers tend to see pockets as the enemy as they disrupt the lines of the clothes and can make them appear bulky. There seems to, therefore, be a blockage in understanding the importance of pockets to the consumer. The purpose of pockets should be functionality and utility, not simply style and aesthetic, though designers should seek to offer both. While we all love a good handbag, they can often be a burden and women should not be forced to have to carry one just to have her personal items nearby.
Here are several reasons why designers often omit or shrink down pockets in womenswear:
1. Not everyone realizes some pockets are sewn shut on purpose. This is to prevent the garment from being stretched out before purchase. Often in blazers, sports coats or dress pants, it may seem there is no pocket-but it’s actually sewn shut, the person purchasing it is expected to remove the stitches to use the pocket.
2. Pockets often add bulk, especially in pants and dresses. The bulk tends to appear in women’s sensitive spots i.e. the hips or waist. To maintain the lines of clothing and omit any bulkiness pockets are usually left out of designs. With dresses and skirts, it’s assumed that she will be carrying a bag and has no need for pockets.
3. Many designers don’t consider pockets useful or necessary for women due to them usually carrying a bag. Some will even claim it helps keep the cost of a garment down because there is less material needed to make the garment.
4. With current trends leaning towards fitted, tight clothing: some clothing is tight enough that if there were pockets in them, we would be able to see each item in those pockets. Pockets don’t always work with these. They change the whole shape and lay of the clothing on the body.
With all that being said I LOVE a pocket and they can often be the reason why I look an item altogether. I may even lead a ‘Pockets for Women’ campaign in the near future!
