The Ultimate Guide to Adding Pockets to Your Designs

Today, I’m diving into the nitty-gritty of mixing and matching styles to create your perfect pair of pants or shorts. You know, the ones that not only look good but also have the right pockets in all the right places. Pockets? Yeah, they’re a game-changer, and we’re about to unfold the importance of these functional fashion elements.

Let’s step back in time a bit. Did you know that men’s clothing in Western cultures started embracing pockets in the 16th century? Pockets have been around for a while, evolving with each passing century. In the 17th-19th centuries, women would wear a sash underneath their dresses that had a little bag referred to as a pocket. Fast-forward to the 20th century, and pockets are sewn into women’s wear throughout countless styles.

They aren’t just for pants anymore, they’ve found their way into various styles. You can see them in different types of bottoms for both men and women, such as jeans, trousers, shorts, and even skirts. Take the Penelope Pants, for example. You can play around with pocket designs and apply them to different lengths of bottoms too.

But let’s not limit ourselves – pants are common, but there’s a whole world of pocket possibilities out there. As the times passed, pockets also appeared in assorted garments like dresses, tees, blazers, coats.

Now, let’s talk types. There’s the standard opening pocket – the traditional go-to for pants and shorts. Then, we’ve got patch pockets, sewn onto the outside in various sizes and shapes. Slash pockets give that cool diagonal opening, while in or on-seam pockets blend seamlessly into the garment’s side. Welt pockets? These come with a narrow welt around the opening, either single or double, and can go horizontal or vertical. Cargo pockets are boxy and often found on cargo pants, while kangaroo pockets, big and open, love to hang out on hoodies.

But that’s not all. Set-in pockets, similar to welt pockets, float into the fabric, sometimes with zippers or buttons for that extra flair. And oh, don’t forget to choose the right fabric for pocket linings. If your main fabric is thick or pricey, a facing and pocket bag could be your pocket’s best friend. Closures like zippers, snaps, or buttons? They’re not just for show – they add security and functionality to your garment.

Now, let’s get practical. How do you make sure your pockets are the perfect size and shape for your design? It’s all about the details – squared off or rounded, matching the design lines for that cohesive look. And to make your life easier, I’ve got a free worksheet for you with all the notes from this video. Definitions of main pocket types and common placement areas – it’s like your pocket design cheat sheet.

Speaking of designs, let’s talk style. Grabbing inspiration from The Fashion Design Book, we can see how added pockets and varying sizes can totally change the game. Pockets aren’t just functional; they’re a design element that can elevate your creation.

So, there you have it – the lowdown on pockets, from their historical roots to the myriad of types and placements. Now go ahead, mix and match styles, add those pockets, and step out with confidence in your perfectly designed pants or shorts. Happy stitching!