Wearing the trousers

History, function, codes and characteristics of breeches and trousers.

The second volume of our ""Grammar of Western clothing” series. We continue
with the rules, codes and characteristics of clothing from the past and the
present.

Historically linked to the men’s fashion wardrobe, breeches and trousers have,
more recently, seduced and become a part of women’s fashion as well. They
originally wore them for sport activities but also when they replaced men at
their jobs during wartime. Women adopted trousers as a key part of their
wardrobe for their practicality and representation of women’s social evolution
and even their independence. Breeches, pants for leisure wear and tailored
trouser shapes, functions and details followed this direction, establishing a
timeless wardrobe and defining a rich language that is often forgotten today.

In this second book, breeches and trousers deliver their secrets to illustrate
this social evolution since today, both men AND women are... Wearing the
trousers!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Originally a passionate collector of old fabrics and clothing, Mireille
Tembouret today oversees the enormous “Vestiaire” (wardrobe), a mix of
civilian and religious garments from many eras. The company - with its
surprising resources - provides clothing to film, television and theater
professionals as well as special-event organizers or private individuals.
After teaching fashion design at Esmod Paris and a design career in the Paris
fashion industry. She now dedicates her energies to developing her company,
based in Paris.