Have you ever wondered why trousers are referred to as a “pair of pants?” It’s a phrase that has been used for centuries and yet remains somewhat of a mystery. In this article, we’ll dive into the fascinating history of why we refer to pants as a “pair” and explore the origins of its name.
Along the way, we’ll learn about the changing fashion trends in clothing and the evolution of pants over time. So, join us on this journey to uncover the answer to the age-old question – why is it called a pair of pants?
Why Is It Called a Pair of Pants?
Have you ever wondered why pants are called a pair?The amount of curiosity and confusion this terminology has brought along is limitless. There are some interesting facts behind this name that are worth exploring!
History
The term “pair of pants” comes from British English terminology, where most articles of clothing were a pair.This was due to the fact that clothes were made using two of the same garment cut from the same cloth and put together in a band. Back in the day, pants were usually made from woven wool, either in two pieces or sometimes one.
The trousers were usually held together by rope or drawstrings.
Why Two Pieces?
Why were there two pieces to an article of clothing?One of the main reasons for this was because the material being used was often heavier, meaning that having two pieces made it easier to take the pants on and off. Another reason why two pieces were used was because some of the designs used in clothes were more complex, so two pieces meant that more intricate designs could be created.
Why Are Pants Called a Pair?
Eventually, trousers started to be made with lighter materials, making it no longer necessary to have two pieces. However, the term stuck.
It was still used to refer to trousers, because it made sense to have the clothing referred to in pairs — as both legs are worn at the same time. Modern day pants can be found in many types of material and styles, but the term ‘pair of pants’ still remains. While it may not make sense now, it can be attributed to the way clothing was made in the past, making it a relic of the past.