Have you ever wondered why some pants, although of the same type, have different pockets? If yes, then you are at the right place. Being the couture manufacturers behind 120+ brands in the USA, PLCM is the perfect manufacturing candidate for explaining such manufacturing nuances.
See, not every types of trousers pockets is the same. Some are intended for carrying essentials, while others are essential for fashion’s sake. The point is, pockets are so much more than well, just pockets!
Join us on this blog and find everything you need to know about different pockets and how you can utilize this challenge to make superior pants and denim collections!
Introduction: How Each Pocket Type is Different?
Before we go any further, let us establish “What exactly are pockets?”. These are little carrying and sometimes even fashion accessory fabric patches that are either stamped onto trousers or incorporated within.
There can be numerous types of pockets depending on the size, placement, and even design. Suppose you take straight-cut jeans and tailored chinos, then are their pockets the same? No! And interestingly, you can’t even use these pockets interchangeably, and pockets, although small, are so essential that they can completely change the vibe of pants.
Just imagine chinos with cargo pockets, it’s no longer considered a chino, right? Now it is a cargo pant we all love. Similarly, each type of pocket for trousers is inherently and functionally different from the others.
9 Types of Pockets You Should Know About!
There are indeed many types of pockets for trousers, but mainly they are categorized into three types. Each Category is a little bit different from the others on the basis of functionality, fashion opportunities, and even structure.
Here are the types of pockets with names:
1- Patch Pockets:
Patch pockets are essential as they get. They are functional yet fashionable additions to trousers, graphic tees, and even sweatshirts. But coming onto trousers, these pockets are either square-shaped or rectangular and are sewn directly onto garments. Patched pockets are great for daily use as they are suitable for carrying a phone or a set of keys easily.
Their visible positioning allows room for customization like no other.
Accordion Pockets:
Accordion pockets are a subtype of patch pockets and are extremely popular. When patched onto trousers, it gives off the pushed-out aesthetics, which yield a unique outlook. These types of pockets are typically utilized in cargo pants.
Welt Pockets:
Welt pockets are yet another popular option for trousers due to their structural designs and clean piped edges. They look great on denim and fitted coats. Also, welt pockets aim to combine fashion with practicality. If you are someone who loves carrying out their daily essentials, such as a wallet, phone, and keys, then you should definitely get these pocket types pants.
Cargo Pockets:
Utilitarian clothes, such as cargo pants and jackets, are incomplete without cargo pocket style. These may not look so professional, but when it comes to serviceability, nothing can outsmart cargo pockets. These are also yet another subtype of patched pockets and are characterized by their huge bellows-shaped form and flap closing. Cargo pockets give off an impression of adventure and casualness like none other.
Hidden Pockets:
Have you ever seen those tiny pockets on your denim jeans? Well, they are actually called hidden pockets. They are concealed inside the fabric of the garment, and unlike traditional pockets, these are meant to carry scarves and jackets for quick access, but how?
Imagine you are on a vacation and brought your scarf along, but due to the heat of the moment, you suddenly don’t want to wear it, then you can just stuff one side of it into these little pockets and forget about it. Since they are not spacious, they hold onto things very securely.
2- In-seam Pockets:
Unlike patched pockets, In-seams, or otherwise known as understated pockets, are added into trousers’ side seams. This approach aims to maintain a streamlined and sleek look of garments without visual hindrance. These pockets are commonly featured in dress pants and other formal wear. In-seams pockets are great for people who value both style and utility.
But one thing you should know is that if you carry non-small essentials in these pockets. They would look absolutely messy.
Pick-proof pockets:
Pick-proof pockets are highly useful, especially in areas where stealing and theft are common occurrences. These pockets are made with specialized fabrics that are slash-resistant, and to make it even more efficient, designers strategically place these pockets near the waistband.
This combination makes these types of pockets practically impossible for slashing and snatching. Opting for these pocket types pants can guarantee a worry-free experience whenever you are travelling or going on an adventure.
Draped Pockets:
Drape pockets are more of a fabrication than anything else. Various folds of fabric are wrapped around the pocket’s opening, creating that relaxed and loose look. These pockets are mostly only used in sleeping trousers, where silky drapes look exceedingly fashionable to wear.
Faux Pockets:
What comes to your mind when you hear the word “faux”? If it’s something along the lines of being false and not real, then that’s exactly what faux pockets are. They are purely meant for decorative purposes and serve no use whatsoever. However despite this major flaw, these are some of the most used women types of trousers pockets in various clothing items such as skirts and fitted pants.
3- Inset Pockets:
Inset pockets are special; they are like patched pockets, but on the inner side of trousers and many coats. The main reason for this strategy is to ensure they lie flush with the fabric and look as clean as a professional.
Zip Pockets:
There is nothing better than zip pockets when it comes to safeguarding your belongings. These pockets are usually in smaller sizes but are ideal for holding little necessities like cash, debit cards, and even keys. Albeit you will only ever see them in activewear trousers or casual pants. The zipper on the end of the pockets nicks out of formal dresses.
Slit Pockets:
Slit pockets are a type of concealed trouser pockets for finer appearance than patched pockets. These pockets are either vertically or horizontally tailored, with their edges being neatly folded inside. Due to this formation, slit pockets seem as if they have been already sewn into fabrics. Additionally, among the different types of pocket used in ladies trousers, these are often the top choices.
Which Pocket Types Should You Choose For Your Custom Pants?
Pockets have always been functional first, but with the passage of time and modern fashion, pockets too became an opportunity for outfit styling. Additionally, it is really hard to say which pockets you should integrate into your custom trousers, as different pockets have different uses. However, for a little bit of convenience and a general guide, you can refer to the table below!
| Pocket Style | Best For (Trouser/Pants) |
|---|---|
| Accordion Pockets | Cargo Pants, Utility Trousers & Hiking Pants |
| Welt Pockets | Dress Pants, Suit Trousers & Tapered Slacks |
| Cargo Pockets | Cargo Pants, Joggers & Tactical Trousers |
| Hidden Pockets | Travel Pants, Leggings & Lounge or Yoga Pants |
| Pick-proof Pockets | Anti-theft Travel Trousers & Commute Pants |
| Draped Pockets | Fashion Pants, Harem Pants & Wide-Leg Trousers |
| Faux Pockets | Jeggings, Skinny Trousers & Slim Fit Pants |
| Zip Pockets | Athletic Pants, Track Pants & Outdoor Trousers |
| Slit Pockets | Chinos, Dress Pants & Pencil Trousers |
Final Thoughts: Everything About Types of Pockets For Trousers
In modern fashion, pockets have become a sort of ornament for pants and even other clothes. No longer are the times when manufacturers and designers just care about colors and layouts, details even as small as pockets and their zippers can either make or break your custom pants and shorts. Just think about it for a while, don’t denim jeans with golden bronze zip pockets sound nice?.
Lastly, there are some guidelines as to which type of pocket you should choose for yourself or even your own custom-made trousers, but ultimately, go with what you feel will do something unique in the market.
Create Custom Pocket Trousers!
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Quick FAQs
What are some different types of pocket used in ladies trousers?
There are a plethora of choices for ladies’ trousers. You can opt for classic side seam pockets, practical patch pockets, and even welt pockets since pockets are mostly, if not always, unisex. You can get the pocket style you like, including cargo and faux pockets as well.
Which types of trousers pockets are best for both fashion and practicality?
Considering both fashion and practicality, side seam pockets and welt pockets are great due to their sleeker, refined look, which, despite looking fashionable, also aims to provide serviceability.
Can I include multiple types of pockets in one pants?
Yes! You can absolutely include multiple types of pockets in one pair of pants. For example, a pair of trousers might have front slant pockets and back welt pockets for varied functionality and style.
Can zip pockets be used for formal trousers?
No, as zip pockets are considered too casual for formal trousers, and if you still manage to get zip pockets onto tailored trousers, chances are it will ruin the sleek aesthetics. Formal wear usually opts for subtle finishes such as welt or jetted pocket styles.
