Knickers: The Classic Pleated Pants with Buckled Knees
Meta Description: Knickers are loose-fitting pants with pleats and buckled knees, popular in men’s golf attire during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Learn about their history and styling.
What Are Knickers?
Knickers, short for knickerbockers, are loose-fitting trousers that gather at the knee, often fastened with buckles, buttons, or elastic bands. Historically worn by men for outdoor sports, including golf and cycling, they became a defining fashion of late 19th and early 20th-century gentlemen’s attire.
Knickers were especially popular among golfers, equestrians, and adventurers, offering comfort, flexibility, and a stylish alternative to long trousers.
Key Features of Knickers
β Loose, Pleated Fit β Allows for comfortable movement.
β Gathered at the Knee β Fastened with buckles, straps, or elastic bands.
β Made from Wool, Tweed, or Cotton β Ensures durability and weather resistance.
β Traditional Sportswear Staple β Worn for golf, cycling, and hunting.
β Often Paired with High Socks β Creates a distinctive, vintage look.
The History of Knickers
1. 19th-Century Origins
- The term “knickerbockers” comes from Washington Irvingβs 1809 book, where Dutch settlers were illustrated wearing loose trousers gathered at the knee.
- By the late 19th century, knickers became common in sports and leisurewear, replacing long trousers for comfort and practicality.
2. Early 20th Century: The Golfing Classic
- Knickers were widely worn by golfers in the 1910s and 1920s, often paired with high socks, button-down shirts, and newsboy caps.
- Famous golfers like Bobby Jones and Walter Hagen popularized the look.
3. Decline & Revival (Mid to Late 20th Century)
- By the 1930sβ1940s, long trousers replaced knickers in most men’s fashion.
- However, they remained in equestrian, military, and hiking gear.
- In the 1970s and 1980s, knickers saw a small revival in vintage golf attire and traditional hunting outfits.
4. Modern Use & Vintage Fashion
- Today, knickers are still worn in golf reenactments, historical costumes, and classic menswear collections.
- Some brands produce updated versions for vintage-inspired fashion and sporting events.
Knickers vs. Similar Styles
| Feature | Knickers | Plus Fours | Breeches | Jodhpurs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length | Knee-length | 4 inches longer than knickers | Fitted and extend below the knee | Fitted with a wide hip, used for riding |
| Fit | Loose with pleats | Looser than knickers | Tighter around calves | Tight-fitting from knee down |
| Fastening | Buckles or elastic at the knee | Buckles at the knee | Buttons or straps at the knee | Elastic or buttons |
| Best For | Golf, casual sports | Golf, countrywear | Formal equestrian wear | Horseback riding |
While knickers were widely used for sports, plus fours and breeches were more specialized for golf and equestrian purposes.
Where Are Knickers Worn Today?
π Vintage Golf Events β Worn in classic golfing attire reenactments.
π Equestrian & Hunting Wear β Similar styles remain in horse riding and outdoor activities.
π Historical & Theatrical Costumes β Used in period films, plays, and reenactments.
π Classic Menswear Enthusiasts β Some tailored fashion brands offer modernized versions.
How to Style Knickers in a Classic Way
π€ Traditional Golf Look β Pair knickers with a button-up shirt, argyle socks, and a newsboy cap.
π€ Vintage Countrywear β Wear with a tweed vest, high socks, and leather boots.
π€ Modern Retro Revival β Style with a tailored blazer and slim-fitted sweater for a refined take.
π€ Equestrian or Outdoor Look β Combine with riding boots and a hunting jacket for a rugged aesthetic.
Why Choose Knickers?
β Vintage, Classic Appeal β Perfect for golf enthusiasts and history lovers.
β Comfortable for Movement β Originally designed for sport and outdoor activities.
β Unique & Distinctive Style β Stands out in modern menswear and costume fashion.
β Symbol of Early Sportswear β A representation of heritage and traditional gentlemanβs attire.
Conclusion: The Timeless Charm of Knickers
Knickers were once a fashion staple in sports and menswear, particularly in early 20th-century golf and country attire. While they have largely faded from mainstream fashion, they remain a beloved part of vintage styling, historical reenactments, and classic golf fashion.
For those who appreciate retro elegance and functional design, knickers continue to be a stylish nod to the past while offering timeless sophistication.
