Breeches and Tricorns: Colonial America's Stylish Past

Get Your Breeches in a Bunch

Picture this: it's 1776, you're strutting your stuff down the cobblestone streets of Boston, and you're absolutely rocking a pair of tight-fitting, knee-length breeches. You sashay down the street knowing full well that you're the epitome of haute couture as the other colonists gawk in awe at your sleek calves. Ah, the golden age of fashion!

Breeches were the go-to pants for men in colonial America. Made of wool, linen, or leather, these beauties were quite the fashion statement. They were secured with buttons or buckles below the knee, which added an extra flair to the whole ensemble.

But what's a pair of breeches without a proper waistcoat to match? This sleeveless jacket was all the rage back in colonial days. You'd wear a long, buttoned-up waistcoat over a frilly, lace-front shirt, and the entire outfit would be held together by a belt. The waistcoat was an essential part of the whole breeches package, and I, for one, am disappointed that this look has gone by the wayside in favor of more mundane attire.

Tricorns: The Original Snapback

Now, let's discuss the pièce de résistance of colonial fashion: the tricorn hat. With its three corners, the tricorn hat was a real attention-grabber. As you walked down the street, people would see you coming from a mile away and say, "Oh, there goes Edmund, with his signature tricorn hat. What a splendid fellow!"

Your tricorn hat could be adorned with feathers, ribbons, and even your favorite sports team's logo (the New England Patriots, of course). You could wear it in various ways to convey different messages. If you wore your tricorn with one point facing forward, you were letting everyone know you meant business. If you wore it with the point facing to the side, you were signaling that you were more laid-back and ready for a rollicking good time at the nearest tavern.

And don't even get me started on the practicalities of the tricorn hat. Its unique design allowed rainwater to gracefully slide off its sides, keeping your powdered wig safe and dry. What other hat can boast that level of functionality? I'll tell you: none.

Reviving the Breeches and Tricorn Look

Why, you may ask, am I waxing poetic about the long-lost fashion trends of colonial America? Because it's high time we brought these looks back, my friends. Think of how fabulous we'd all look strutting down the street in breeches and tricorns!

Here are some tips on how to rock the breeches and tricorn look in the 21st century:

• Choose the right fabric: Modern materials like polyester and spandex can give your breeches a sleek, form-fitting look. And while you're at it, consider going for a waterproof tricorn hat, perfect for those rainy days when you still want to look dapper.
• Accessorize: Don a cravat or a silk scarf to add that extra touch of elegance to your ensemble. You can even coordinate your tricorn hat's decorations with your outfit for a truly harmonious look.
• Own it: Confidence is key when sporting breeches and a tricorn hat. Strut your stuff and show the world that you're a pioneer in fashion, just like our colonial forefathers.

In Conclusion: Looking Good, America

In the immortal words of George Washington, "We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately... in our breeches and tricorns." The spirit of colonial fashion is alive in those who dare to venture into the world of breeches and tricorn hats.

So why not throw caution to the wind and embrace the style of our colonial ancestors? You may find that you look pretty darn good in some knee-length pants and a hat with three points. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that you're keeping the spirit of colonial America alive, one fashionable outfit at a time.

Article kindly provided by foreverinfashion.org