jeudi 21 novembre 2013

Jodhpurs: From Function To Fashion

By Katrina Wheeler


If you're a horseback rider, you're probably intimately familiar with jodhpurs. These pants have been a staple of horseback riding attire since the 1800s. Traditionally, they are flared at the top and then tightly fitted from the knee to the ankle. In addition to their functional use, these pants have also seen their day in the world of high fashion, especially in India. Read on to learn more about the evolution of these special pants.

Jodhpurs have a very distinctive look, billowing from the waist to the knees and then fitted tightly from the knees to the ankles, ending in a tight cuff. The flared portion is designed to allow for comfort and free movement while riding, while the tighter fabric serves to protect the rider's skin from friction. However, some modern jodhpurs are fitted throughout, since modern fabrics are much more breathable and flexible than the traditional cotton twill once used.

The riding pants first came to the Western world in the 1800s, when a nobleman from India began wearing them to polo matches in England. This man was a son of a Maharaja, and his sporting attire reflected the style of the upper classes of his country. The look quickly caught on throughout Europe and spread to the United States.

Varying significantly in look and feel from the original style, today's pants come in a range of colors and fabrics. Traditionally, only cotton twill in beige or white was used. Leather fabric on certain areas of the pants, particularly, on the seat, is a functional style that is meant to keep the trousers from wearing out quickly.

These classic riding pants have also had a life in areas outside of the equestrian community. In the 20th century, many of Europe's armies adapted the pants as part of their uniforms. The same happened with police officers, particularly those who patrolled on motorcycle and horseback.

In the 1920s, these pants became popular off the saddle when designer Coco Chanel began featuring them in her collections. Since that time, many designers have incorporated an equestrian flair into their collections, most notably Ralph Lauren. However, it is difficult to find fashion jodhpurs in the Western world, so many aficionados order them online from India.

If you're a saddle seat rider, you might be familiar with Kentucky-style jodhpurs. In contrast to the tightly fitted leg, this version has a flared bottom that is designed to fit entirely over a riding boot. While many confuse these pants with breeches, they are actually slightly different, with most riders preferring either one or the other.

In India, jodhpurs live on in the fashion world. In fact, they are a staple of menswear in that country, particularly for formal events like weddings. If you're a trendsetter, you may want to try adopting this look here in the States by pairing the pants with an Oxford shirt and matching jacket. Try your local equestrian store, or order a pair online. A caution, though; you may need to have the pants tailored to ensure they fit you properly, especially if you don't try on before buying.




About the Author:



Aucun commentaire:

Enregistrer un commentaire