Give Me Back My Pockets

Give me back my pockets. I’m not talking about pockets that are barely big enough to fit a piece of gum, or ones that are sewn shut entirely. I’m talking about honest-to-god pockets, ones big enough to fit a iPhone X, or lose change, or — *gasp* — an actual wallet. 

I’m sick of watching with envy as the men around me pull endless important items out of their pockets at a moments notice, while I resort to sticking a pocket on my phone case in order to carry around my credit card if I don’t want to hold a purse. No, this issue may not seem urgent or particularly significant, but it does have a history that screams of some sexist nonsense.

It was as far back as the 19th century when women’s pockets began to fall out of favor, and the purse was born, because dressmakers thought women should have a sleek, streamlined look. Also, it was something of a status symbol to not have pockets or a purse, because well-to-do women didn’t need pockets to hold money; it was their husbands who were supposed to do all the money-handling. Ew.

In the 20th century, during both world wars, there was a trend of utilitarian clothing for women who were working, and didn’t want to have a purse while they were on the job, so the pocket made something of a comeback. Women were voting, they were working, and they had pockets big enough to hold everything they needed.

During the late 90s however, the luxury handbag hit the fashion scene, along with the skinny jean, and pockets began to shrink once again. This continued into the 21st century, meaning that most modern women’s pants and dresses do not have adequate pockets, if they have pockets at all.

Putting pockets into women’s clothing wouldn’t mean sacrificing style. Just look at actress and singer Marlene Dietrech, a sexy, badass woman with pockets to spare.

Or, for a more modern example, take Gina Rodriguez, looking gorgeous at the 2016 Golden Globes, hands deep in her luxurious pockets.

I’m not asking for much here. Give women what men have always had — the ability to fit what they need in their pockets.