Men’s Trousers: History and Interesting Facts

Today, trousers are a staple in the wardrobe of a successful, elegant, and confident man. However, their journey to this status was long and full of unexpected twists.

In ancient times, trousers were not considered men’s clothing at all. While primitive people kept warm with animal skins and the inhabitants of hot regions wore loincloths, the first prototypes of trousers appeared in Persia. They provided comfort for horseback riding and gradually became common among nomadic tribes.

In the 12th century, the Byzantine emperor officially introduced trousers into the military dress code, making them a symbol of a brave and strong warrior. Later, they became part of the attire of legionnaires and eventually spread to European armies.

However, trousers did not immediately make their way into everyday fashion. For a long time, European men wore stockings and tunics, while trousers remained the clothing of peasants and soldiers. Only by the late 19th century, with the development of the textile industry, did a universal trouser model emerge—featuring a straight cut, waistband, fly, and pockets. Since then, trousers have become an essential part of the male wardrobe.

They emerged by accident! In the 19th century, trousers were exported to different countries and packed tightly into crates to save space. During long sea voyages, the fabric developed deep folds.
Instead of ironing them out, fashion-forward men of the time decided to embrace the look, and creases became a hallmark of elegance.

Another fascinating fact is the origin of trouser cuffs. According to one version, they were introduced by the Prince of Wales (future King Edward VII).

Legend has it that while taking a walk one day, it started to rain. To prevent his trousers from getting dirty, the prince simply rolled them up. His courtiers quickly adopted the idea, and over time, turn-ups became a stylish detail of classic trousers.

Over the past 100 years, trousers have undergone dramatic changes. They have evolved from the wide cuts of the early 20th century to the slim silhouettes of the 1960s, the flared styles of the 1970s, and the relaxed fits of the 1990s.

Today, men’s trousers are not just about classic tailoring but also a variety of styles: tailored suit trousers symbolize business elegance, chinos offer a comfortable and stylish everyday option, cargo pants provide practicality with utility pockets, and joggers represent a modern fusion of sportswear and street style. A contemporary man can choose trousers for any occasion—from formal meetings to casual strolls.

Men’s trousers have come a long way—from being associated with warriors and peasants to becoming the key element of a refined gentleman’s wardrobe. Today, they remain an integral part of fashion, constantly evolving while maintaining their core principle: comfort + style.

Now, when you wear trousers with creases or turn-ups, you know that these details appeared purely by chance, yet they became timeless classics!

We have repeatedly mentioned that one of our main goals this year is to launch our own line of trousers, developed from our previous experience. Next Saturday, I will share why we chose trousers, how I started producing them, and what models we plan to create for you.