Weekend Review: Pockets

 

Pockets / Hannah Carlson
NY: Algonquin, c2023.
320 p.

I bought this book quite a while ago, as I love both fashion history and pockets!

It's a look at pockets over the centuries, and the imbalance between men's and women's access to built in pockets. It talks about things like tie-on pockets that women wore under their skirts for many years, transforming into separate handbags when fashions became more Regency - skirts weren't full enough (or even too transparent at times) to use old-fashioned underskirt pockets. And that the appearance of reticules carried in the hand, a visible 'pocket' that was previously considered an undergarment, was a bit scandalous. Or the fact that the appearance of the sober three piece suit for men, superseding frilly frock coats and breeches, can be dated to a specific day, Oct 15, 1666, when King Charles II made it mandatory court wear (made from English wool, not French silk!). 

There are 7 chapters, taking us from medieval Europe to dreams of a Jetson-like utopian future with sleek, pocketless outfits. It's engaging, with good stories folded in to the historical fact. All sorts of pockets are discussed, with the social reactions to fashion changes incorporated into the narrative as well. It's funny, intriguing, enlightening and full of great "dinner party tidbits" to share - like the ones I mentioned above. 

It's a bit academic but very readable, and it includes many illustrations, many in colour. It's a beautifully designed book, with a balance of text & pictures, and it has great quality paper. It's a substantial read in both form and content. Also has a lot of notes and a lengthy bibliography, so lots more to explore from here! Really enjoyed it.