What is the small pocket on jeans for? Why do you need a tiny pocket on jeans - the history of its appearance and how it was used before, modern options

Reading time: 4 minutes

Every year, more than 450,000 pairs of jeans are sold in America alone, not to mention the rest of the world. And how many owners of this wardrobe item wondered why small pocket on jeans and who invented it. To many, the part may seem completely inappropriate and inconvenient, especially when small objects get stuck, when the finger treacherously does not fit into a tight space. But without a pocket, jeans will no longer be real jeans. It is clear that this is not just a piece of decoration, and it is not a matter of fashionable characteristics; originally it had a specific function. Designers and historians are still arguing about what exactly the pocket was intended for, and some of the versions even sound absurd.

A little history or the main version of the small pocket

The history of the appearance of denim products goes back to the distant 15th century. Italian sailors made trousers by sewing together coarse linen fabric, since there was no need to sew sails. Subsequently, canvas clothing began to be called “Jenes”, and then the sound changed to American, and “Jenes” turned into “Jeans”.

In 1853, Levi Strauss decided to sew pants for sale for $1.20. The canvas pants turned out to be so comfortable that the young tailor began to have queues of customers. Later, Levi began to look for clients by visiting gold mines.

In the 1860s, canvas products fell in demand because the pockets were quickly torn off by the weight of gold nuggets and gold mining tools. This influenced Jacob Davis, who came up with a special device to strengthen the pocket area.

Interesting fact

Soon a new complaint was received - small gold grains were lost in the stretched compartments of the pockets. So tailors came up with a way to secure the gold they found by sewing an extra tiny pocket onto the pants.

This is how the history of the American company Levi’s began.

Small pocket in the masses

It’s clear how the first small pocket on jeans appeared, but when did it happen? global change, and they started sewing on pockets not for gold miners, but for the ordinary population of America? In 1890, Levi's decided to follow fashion trends and develop special-sized pockets for watches on a chain. Around the same time period, watches for global consumption were released, offering simple, rugged, but reliable models that became favorites among cowboys and hard workers. In the brand's catalogue, the pocket is designated as “Watch Pocket”.

Interesting fact

Most consider the small attribute to be the fifth pocket on jeans, however, the fifth appeared only in 1901, and was considered the second back pocket.

Other pocket versions

The fashion for watches with a chain is a thing of the past, but why are there pockets left? Representatives of the American brand claim that they have not deprived denim pants of a classic attribute, from simple desire maintain the original appearance. Not all historians adhere to the version of the creation of the denim pocket by gold miners and those who like to track the passage of time, so other creation stories have appeared.

For the cowboys

Jeans, initially, are an American brand, therefore, the primacy of creating a pocket is given to cattle herders from the Wild West:

• the first version of the cowboy story is based on the addiction to smoking, so the small pocket is designed to store a lighter, which fits perfectly, and during the races smoking accessories do not get lost;
• the second option lies in the attitude of the American towards firearms- the pocket was used to store special primers that ignite the powder charge.

For workers

Initially, why do you need a pocket, there was a version designed for the convenience of a simple worker, where it was easy to find small items in the pocket: nails, hardware, rivets, pins. With constant movement and bending of the body, the size of the pocket did not allow a sharp object to dig into the body. Thanks to its dimensions, a folding knife could easily fit into the pocket, which simplified the search for the necessary tool.

For storing coins

In the distant past, to pay for needs, a couple of minted coins were enough, which could get lost in bulky pants pockets. But it turned out to be convenient to throw small money into a narrow pocket, which gave rise to the version of the appearance of an additional detail. Later, with the advent of payphones, the pocket began to be used to store small change, which made it possible to easily pay for a telephone conversation.

In fact, all this is more suitable not for appearance versions, but for what a small pocket on jeans can be used for. And, thanks to the changes in modern world, this detail is not so unnecessary.

For owners of denim products, the pocket is a kind of secret storage that everyone uses for their own purpose:

• storage place for glasses (if you put the frames in your pocket, the glasses will not be damaged);
• a safe place for contraceptives;
• medicines;
• MP3 player or iPod;
• chewing gum;
• public transport ticket;
• talisman and so on.

battery in a safe place

candy for those with a sweet tooth

lip gloss in a small pocket

Today, the famous Levi's brand is still one step ahead. And now, a mini-detail in the new Red Wire DLX has a leather cover with a built-in music system together with an iPod, which includes: headphones, terminals and a special joystick. So, in the denim world, the small pocket continues to improve and does not lose its practicality.

A short video that answers the question “why is there a small pocket on jeans?”:

Most jeans have a small pocket that is never used by the wearer. The “fifth” pocket is found on classic models and all men's versions. This detail was not always present in the cut of jeans. The attribute appeared in 1873 on the first models of the manufacturer Levi’s (USA).

History of the “fifth” pocket

Until the twentieth century, denim clothing was used as work uniform. Dense twill weaving allowed the fabric to withstand high loads and be resistant to tearing. The first models had only two front pockets for small items. With the expansion of the field of application in cut modeling, 2 details were added. Among these innovations was a “fifth” pocket.

INTERESTING: initially the small pocket was the fourth in a row. The rear left pocket appeared only in 1901.

• Levi's (USA) became a trendsetter and brought denim clothing out of workwear. Elements have been added to everyday models to make storage tasks easier useful little things. Among these innovations was an additional pocket.
• The sponsor of the clothing modernization was Zippo. They signed a contract with Levi's to introduce a miniature pocket for their famous lighters. The name of this element “watch pocket” has survived to this day.
• However, jeans lovers used the “gift” from the brand in their own way. Workers used it to store nails. Gold miners placed the rarest nuggets in it. Initially, the pocket dimensions are adjusted to fit early versions Zippo lighters.

What do the creators say?

In response to numerous user requests, Levi’s released a special “Fifth Pocket commercial” video in 2009. The story, presented in a humorous manner, tells the story of the resourceful owner of the Levi’s 501 model.

According to the plot, a young man receives favor from the mistress of a criminal element. At the moment of handing over the key to her chambers, it is searched by security. However, their searches were unsuccessful. The treasured key is hidden in a tightly pressed pocket.

The motto of the video: I love this commercial…

The real purpose of the pocket

In addition to the humorous presentation of the idea of ​​​​creating a pocket, Levi’s posted a list of descriptions on its official website. One of the purposes of the “fifth” element is to store small items. It is quite roomy and fits snugly, even if the trousers are unbuttoned. The size of the pocket is universal for any metal currency of the World.

The first customers and consumers of Levi's denim products were cowboys. Taking into account the needs of their users, fashion designers calculated the parameters of the pocket for storing cartridge capsules. This is one of the optional uses of the pocket.

The pocket holds various travel items. A small multitool fits well here. The tightly pressed edge is suitable for securing a folding knife clip.

One of the primary purposes of the pocket was to carry a watch. Initially, they were on a chain and special pockets were sewn onto clothes for them. Middle-class Central Americans wore them clipped to their belts. It is for such cases that Levi’s thought of a little surprise for its customers. This is evidenced by the self-name of the element “watch pocket”, which translated means “watch pocket.”

Anatomy of a pocket: dimensions and material

The idea of ​​strengthening work pants with rivets made Jacob Davis and Levi Strauss rich. Their pants didn't tear when long-term operation, which was the key to the popularity of Levi's clothing. The addition of an extra pocket gave them the opportunity to reinforce the waist area. In this place, the tension on the tissue is applied with double force. So the introduction of a pocket became a strategic decision for the entire line of clothing from a well-known manufacturer.

The initial dimensions of the pocket are 57x37x13 mm. Can vary up or down. The fabric on the pocket was laid in 2 layers or made with a higher weaving density. As a result, the pocket wall kept its shape in any state (tensioned or relaxed fabric).

Initially, the pocket was actively used for its intended purpose. With the advent of the technical revolution, pendant clocks gave way to hand clocks. The pocket remained “idle.” However, he has repeatedly become a source of inspiration.

In 1983, an advertisement promoting health protection against AIDS was withdrawn. The advertisement features a pocket as a place to store contraceptives. The idea came to the right place, that for many its use was clearly defined.

The 1993 film about the favorite of American teenagers, Lucky Luke, was not complete without the demonstration of the fifth pocket. A famous fictional marksman uses it to carry mints, which replace the cigars familiar to cowboys. This has become a reason for many to carry pills or chewing gum in their fifth pocket.

Despite the variety of jeans models, the number of pockets in men's jeans often remains the same. According to tradition, there are five of them.

4 regular-sized pockets have a practical purpose: they store small things, money, keys, etc.

The fifth pocket differs from the others in its size; it is smaller than the others. This pocket often causes confusion among jeans owners. Let's try to figure out why they sew a small pocket on jeans, into which you can't put much.

The history of fashion knows exactly when an unusual pocket appeared on jeans. The age of this detail is approaching one and a half centuries.

Reference! Customers first saw it on pants in 1873. Levi's introduced a new tradition.

Back in 1873, the company released new model of his jeans - 501 XX, which differed from others by the presence of a fifth pocket.

The author of this element is considered to be American designer M. Regalo. He came up with a compartment that, according to one version, was intended specifically for storing watches. This is exactly how it was designated in the catalogues: “watch pocket”.

However, initially, jeans owners used it not only for watches. The “Gold Rush” that reigned in America at that time suggested a different purpose. The small, tight compartment was convenient for separate storage of washed-up gold nuggets, and was used for this purpose by many cowboys.

Classic uses for a small pocket on jeans

Gradually, the additional compartment began to be used for other purposes.

Watch

For a long time it was still used for watches, which in those days were not wristwatches. The watch chain was attached to the belt, and the case lay inside the recess.

Coins

The pocket turned out to be very convenient for storing small coins. It didn’t take long to look for them among other things.

Small items

This detail was also appreciated by craftsmen who used strong and durable trousers as work clothes. Small parts (small nails, nuts, bolts, washers, etc.) were not lost and were always at hand.

Lighters

Smokers have found another purpose for the small decorative detail. It fit the Zippo lighter perfectly.

Romantic attributes

The lovers used the tiny compartment in their own way. At the right moment, either folded notes of romantic content, or rings indicating the seriousness of intentions, or contraceptives were taken out from there.

Medicines

There is another version associated with the designer M. Regalo. In accordance with it, it is believed that the author of the idea created a part for storing medicines, and possibly concealing prohibited drugs.

Reference! The fifth pocket in those days was called not only a “watch pocket”, but also a pocket for medicines - a “drugs packet”.

Personal talismans

It was considered important to constantly wear small amulets or talismans, which promised good luck and luck in business. Hidden in a pocket, they were invisible to prying eyes, but instilled confidence in their owner.

Modern use of a small pocket

Changes that occur in life have expanded the purpose of the fifth pocket and led to new options for its use.

Appearance cell phones forced us to look for a suitable place for them. A small denim pocket solved this problem.

It was also convenient to use it to deal with removed sunglasses. They were not inserted, but secured with a bow on the fabric, leaving the glasses on top of the trousers.

Many jeans owners develop individual habits. Some people know that they always have a small knife, others make it a place for chewing gum, others adapted for storing things purchased in transport tickets.

New technologies and the special purpose of the small pocket in Levi’s jeans models

Levi's, the first to add a fifth pocket to its models, is still ahead today. Professionals managed to combine classics and modernity.

And now the mini-department has received serious practical application. Buyers noticed that on the new model of Red Wire DLX jeans, the now familiar attribute of jeans looks new. It has a white leather overlay.

But the main difference between the model is the contents of the compartment. The owner of these trousers, along with the clothes, receives built-in headphones, a joystick, and special terminals. Thanks to this, the manufacturer combined clothes with iPOD, and the buyer received maximum convenience in working with it, because you can control the device using a joystick even when the iPOD remains in your pocket.

Important! All devices equipped with the Red Wire DLX model are detachable, making it easy to care for the product.

So a small pocket, which appeared as a decorative detail, became practical and convenient addition jeans.

Probably many people have wondered why a tiny pocket is needed on jeans? After all, it is so small that it is impossible to put anything in it.

Or maybe it's just an unusual design decision. But there must be a logical explanation for any decision that is not even standard or practical.

Therefore, we will now plunge into history and return one and a half centuries ago, to the USA, where the world's first denim trousers were created and sewn.

When did they appear

Gin appeared in the USA in 1853. Originally intended as work clothes for farmers. A little later they were chosen by cowboys. And after some time, they entered the world of fashion and became an integral part of every person’s wardrobe. They have firmly taken first positions in the fashion world, and they are not inferior to anyone even in the 21st century.

Why is there a small pocket on jeans?

There are several versions, let's look at each of them.

For watches

The most common version is that the tiny pocket served for a pocket watch on a chain. Very fashionable and popular at that time.

For Zippo lighter

For Zippo lighters, which were very popular at that time. They easily fit into a pocket, and it was even easier and faster to get it out of there. After all, this type of clothing was worn by cowboys, and they, as you know, smoked.

For gold

So that gold miners would put gold nuggets in it. After all, if a pocket is accidentally wiped, then all its contents will not fall out, but will end up in another, larger one.

For small change

Well, a very simple and banal version, for small details, for example: small money.

Why do we need a small pocket now?

Many people do not pay any attention to it at all, and do not store anything in it. And some have found a modern use for it and put a lighter or condoms in it, bank card, house keys.

And in the comments you can leave your opinion about why a tiny pocket is needed on jeans.

Anastasia Volkova

Fashion is the most powerful of the arts. This is movement, style and architecture in one.

Almost every person has jeans in their wardrobe. Distinctive feature These pants have five pockets. The smallest one, which is located on the right side of the trousers, inside the main one, is an integral part of the entire denim culture. If initially it was considered an exclusively decorative attribute, then after a short time this tiny pocket begins to perform many different functions.

What is the name of the small pocket in jeans?

Since the appearance of the fifth pocket in jeans, there have been several variations of its names. All of them determine the purpose of this element of denim trousers. The options are:

1. Drugs packet, or medicine package - used to store medications;
2. Watch pocket - pocket watch (in Levi's catalogues, pocket has this literal translation);
3. Funny pocket - a funny pocket (occurred due to the fact that illegal drugs were hidden there);
4. Coin pocket or pocket for coins - used for money.

History of appearance

The appearance of jeans is associated with the name of Leib Strauss from Bavaria. During the anti-Semitic period, the future designer Leib Strauss, born in Jewish family, changes his name to Levi Strauss and goes to America. At that time, and this was around the 1800s, there was a flaring gold rush. Levi gives up the race for gold and decides that best way getting rich means taking care of the workers. The young man is engaged in trade, selling fabrics and haberdashery.

One day, having successfully sold all the goods, he discovered that only a roll of cheap hemp canvas remained. Levi Strauss realized that it would be difficult to sell it, so he made trousers, which were quickly snapped up by prospectors. This was the beginning of the history of jeans. In 1853, Levi Strauss and his cousin opened the first Levi Strauss & Co brand store. Hemp fabric was replaced by light blue and blue denim.

The quality of the material was liked by the workers who worked in the mines. Pants were highly valued due to their strength, reliability, and durability. The cowboys of the Wild West also liked these trousers, which, like the cowboy hat, became the personification of that era. The period of the gold rush, the times of the cowboys, was marked by the fact that then trousers were invented, the fashion for which remains even after more than a hundred years.

In 1873, American Michael Regalo, who is the designer of the Levi's brand, came up with a new model of jeans - 501 XX. It differed in that a special pad was sewn inside the right compartment, which fit tightly to the fabric, had certain dimensions and strict standards. According to historians of the fashion industry, it was originally intended for wearing pocket watches, but then another purpose appeared - for storing gold-mined nuggets. Then the pocket was the fourth, not the fifth: the classic jeans of that time - with one back pocket.

What was a tiny pocket on jeans used for before?

There are three versions, for which the Levi’s designer came up with a fifth pocket on jeans. They are as follows:

1. For wearing pocket watches on a chain. Back then, this small compartment was sewn a little larger than the modern one. This was necessary so that the watch on the chain could fit in it.
2. A place to store small parts that workers need.
3. For Zippo lighters, which were actively used by almost all cowboys. It is believed that for this reason, over time, the pockets became smaller in size - the way people are used to seeing them now.

Watch

19th century fashion suggested the use of watches on a chain rather than watches on bracelets. Judging by the name “watch pocket”, it is not difficult to guess that a watch was worn in the smallest part of the pants. Considering that jeans are work clothes, holding the item in other places was inconvenient. The chain was attached to a leather belt, belt loop or belt, and the watch itself was kept in the pocket. True, it was not very comfortable: when wearing it on the side, I constantly felt discomfort due to the fact that the watch put pressure on my thigh.

Coins

Another version of what the pocket compartment was used for is money. Coin pocket is a great place to store cash. At that time, paper banknotes were almost never used in America, so this cut of pants helped to quickly find and easily get small coins. The version that a small pocket was specially sewn for this purpose is quite realistic and justified.

Gold nuggets

The gold rush was a very difficult time. Gold miners worked in the mines day and night. The search for nuggets was very active, so there was a risk of losing the find. And there were many hunters for other people's prey. At this time, jeans with a small, secure compartment in which gold could be safely hidden became especially popular.

Small items

After Levi Strauss separated the upper part from the overalls and patented his invention, the pants became especially popular among the working class of the population. It is believed that a small pocket on jeans is intended for small items, small things that should not be lost and should always be at hand. Strong, durable denim fabric securely stored bolts, nuts, terminals, nails, and screws. Even a penknife could be carried in this compartment.

Lighters

A hundred years ago, as now, a small pocket on jeans was perfect for storing lighters. During the days of cowboys, Zippos were popular, which fit in a small front pocket. Even when moving at high speed on horseback, nothing was lost. After a while, Zippo was replaced by Cricket lighters, which also fit perfectly into this decorative detail of the pants.

Medicines

The name “drugs pocket” suggests that the shallow compartment in jeans was intended to store medications. There is a version that Regalo himself created this pocket to hide illegal drugs in it. After police raids, a couple of narcotic tablets could often be found in pockets. Many consider this version dubious, but it has its place.

Personal talismans

People who constantly carry various amulets and talismans with them try to keep them as close to themselves as possible, but so that they are hidden from prying eyes. A small pocket compartment is best suited for this, which will reliably hide such an attribute and prevent the accessory from falling out or being detected by prying eyes. Wearing personal talismans is another version of the appearance of the fifth jeans pocket.

Modern Application

The classic shape of jeans with five pockets has become established and is still used today. The modern use of the smallest compartment is not much different from what it was a hundred years ago, but several new reasons have been added to use a pocket. In the days of payphones, small change could easily fit there; now they carry subway tokens, travel tickets, paper clips, chewing gum, paper money and other small items there. Often the pocket is used to store contraceptives.

Levi's Red Wire DLX jeans with built-in player

A new product from Levi's that has appealed to many music lovers, a product developed in conjunction with the iPod is the Red Wire DLX jeans. Their peculiarity is that they are equipped with a built-in, almost invisible player. The device is equipped with retractable headphones and a joystick that allows you to control the iPod without taking it out. The device does not cause any discomfort to the owner, is easily removed, and after removal, the pants can be washed. There are options for women and men, and appearance The model emphasizes the minimalist style of the iPod.

Video