In the present day, every piece of garment can have alterations for both the male and female figures. However, this was not the case just a century ago, when wearables were often synonymous pants with the gender or social status of the individual.

Even during turbulent times, fashion emerged as a potent force, trying to unite the masses. With different varieties flooding the market constantly, it was a matter of time before the societal norms got broken.

Among these, a significant issue was the prohibition of women from wearing pants. Even though there is a wide variety of women’s pants in the market now, the freedom to don this garment did not come easily. 

The Beginning of the Fight

Although there’s no recorded date when the fight to wear pants began, many women wore pants long before it was acceptable. For instance, there have been cases of women sneaking into the military pretending to be men. Young females who were not as physically strong as the men in the military could still perform vital roles during armed conflicts without compromising their identities.

However, the fight for the freedom to dress was a part of the women’s rights movement that began in Europe and the US in the 1850s. Women demanded relief from patriarchal oppression and the compulsion to wear corsets. 

To combat these restrictions, some suffragists started to wear baggy “Turkish” pantaloons, complete with a knee-length skirt. Subsequently, these pants were nicknamed ‘bloomers’ and acted as temporary measures for protesting. 

The Breakthrough

For many years after the initial protests, an increasing number of women were seen using pants. For example, mountaineer Annie Smith Peck wore pants when she summitted the Matterhorn in 1895. Traditionally, women climbers wore heavy woollen skirts for this purpose.

But society witnessed a tremendous change during the turn of the 19th century. At this time, sportswear was beginning to occupy the lion’s fashion market share. As a result, the prevalence of formal attire declined. 

Simultaneously, the art of dressing was now more focused on ease of movement than on satisfying traditional definitions. Gradually, trousers were beginning to be seen as acceptable wear for women, but during selected occasions.

The onset of World War II was a huge factor, too, as women began to occupy roles in place of men who joined the war efforts. For this purpose, they often sported pants to complete their formal attire.

The Present Market

In 2022, the women’s pants market generated USD 136 billion. However, the pandemic had significantly affected this industry in 2020, with the revenue capping at USD 111 billion. 

This value is expected to increase and reach USD 154 billion by 2026. With a wide variety of styles, ranging from tapered and slim to straight and Capri, the market is flexible to accommodate the demand it generates.

Pants offer the flexibility and comfort that is difficult to find in any other bottom wear. These garments enjoy unparalleled property among women of all ages and demographics.

Summing Up

With the variety present in the market, an average consumer might be spoilt for choice. Moreover, numerous brands have the option to shop online, allowing you to choose your fit from the comfort of your home.

So, browse through the multiple colours available and get the right fit for yourself today!