Do you know what "pantaloons" are?
Some of you might say, "That brings back memories!", while others—depending on your generation—might respond with, "What are those?"
In this article, we will explain:
- What are pantaloons?
- When were pantaloons in fashion?
- The differences between pantaloons, bell-bottoms, and bootcuts.
- How to incorporate pantaloons into modern outfits.
Actually, pantaloons might look pretty cool in the Reiwa era! (Though that phrasing is a bit… haha.)
Bell-bottom Jeans Used Color/Unisex
What are pantaloons?
The word "pantalon" originated in France.
Originally, the French word referred to long trousers in general.
In Japan, it is used to describe pants with a silhouette that flares from the knee to the hem.
The etymology is said to trace back to the 16th century, derived from the costume worn by the clown Pantalone in Italian comedy.
Is it an obsolete term now…? When were pantaloons popular?
"Shall I wear a dress today? Or maybe pantaloons, just for a change..."
This is a line from Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi's 1979 song, "Machiawase no Kousaten."
Born in 1988 and a fan of oldies, I learned the word "pantalon" from this song.
I remember asking my mother, "What are pantaloons?" the first time I heard it.
(Her reaction was, "Oh, that takes me back! ...Haha.")
In other words, it suggests that while pantaloons were popular in the 60s and 70s, the term had become archaic by the 90s.
Pantaloons, bell-bottoms... what’s the difference?
Pantaloons are pants with a line that flares from below the knee to the hem.
But there are other pants with similar silhouettes, aren't there?
Pantaloons, bell-bottoms, trumpet pants, flare pants, bootcuts...
What is the difference between them?
While there are various theories, they are generally distinguished by the "evolution of terminology over time" and the "degree of the flare."
- Pantaloons came to be called bell-bottoms due to changing times.
- If you go back further, pantaloons were called "trumpet pants."
- Bootcut pants have a more modest flare than bell-bottoms.
- Flare pants is a general term for any pants that flare at the hem.
In short, it can be visualized like this:
However, "flare pants" have recently become popular among women in their teens and 20s, but the silhouettes of these so-called "flare pants" are clearly bootcut...
Perhaps this diagram will also become outdated as time goes on.
How to wear modern pantaloons (bell-bottoms)?
If you think pantaloons are an obsolete item, think again.
The boom has returned repeatedly, just under different names.
Even a simple casual outfit gains an edgy look when you incorporate a bell-bottom silhouette.
With a high waist and the flare below the knee, the style-enhancing effect is outstanding!
Do you think bell-bottoms only look good on tall people?
Even petite women can pull them off perfectly by pairing them with a form-fitting top.
Bell-bottoms paired with a jacket make for a sophisticated look.
While denim and jackets are a classic combo, using bell-bottoms instead of straight-leg denim makes the look feel very fresh.
Men's bell-bottom styles are also incredibly cool...!
Add items with a bit of personality, like a hat or a patterned shirt, to create an outfit for an adult with a sense of fun!
These are great for both men and women!
Nostalgic pantaloons have seen their popularity rise and fall, and now they are becoming a standard item under the name "bell-bottoms."
For those looking for bell-bottoms that suit both men and women, we recommend the BOBSON Bell-bottom Jeans Unisex.
Bell-bottom Jeans One-Wash/Unisex
BOBSON’s bell-bottoms feature a snug fit around the thighs and a natural flare from the knee.
It’s a bell-bottom with a balance that is nostalgic yet new.
Additionally, the pockets are sized and positioned perfectly to make your hips look great.
The one-wash is a dark navy, making it a versatile pair that can be worn both casually and chicly.
Bell-bottom Jeans Used Color/Unisex
The used color offers even more style-enhancing effects due to the shading of the fabric.
Are you wondering, "Is it really unisex, or is it just for women?"
Bell-bottom Jeans Used Color/Unisex
They look great on men too!
Men's pantaloons used to have a strong hippie image, but modern bell-bottoms are a casual item that lets you express your personality just the right amount.
BOBSON’s revived bell-bottoms come in 6 unisex sizes.
We provide not only the waist and inseam measurements for each size, but also the thigh width, front rise, and hem width, so you can choose by comparing them with your existing jeans.
We offer free alterations so you can wear them from the day they arrive, so please be sure to check out the BOBSON online shop!
