George Warlegganâs Dandy Breeches
I read through the reblogs/replies from the Ross at the Warleggan Ball post and a few people brought up the odd length of Rossâ pants. Iâll continue the discussion using this pic of George from the infamous boxing practice scene from Season 2 Episode 4.Â
George and Ross can never agree on much fashion wise, but it is correct that both would wear ž length pants, or as they called them breeches. It seems weird to us today because this length is very much out of style. 18th Century men of ALL levels of society wore their breeches mid calf year round. If you want to know more about 18th Century menswear terms, this is a good guide. Usually men wore white or black stockings to cover the lower calf, but often as we see on Poldark, theyâre wearing tall boots so you canât see the shortened length.Â
This silk pair of breeches from the Victoria & Albert museum collection look like a pair you would find in Georgesâ collection. There are also surviving examples of linen, thick and thin cotton, wool, animal skin, and leather breeches in every color you can imagine. The term trousers were specifically used for working class mensâ sturdy linen breeches.
Zippers and elastic waistbands didnât exist, so most breeches had buttons in the front to secure the opening. Some pairs have drawstrings in the back to adjust the waist line. Pockets were sewn to the waistline on casual/laboring pairs and often absent on fancier pairs. Buttons on the bottom of each leg secured the closing and also helped to keep stockings in place. Suspenders existed in the 18th Century, but were usually hidden underneath shirts/waistcoats. Men would often have several pairs of breeches to match every occasion.Â
I hope this clears up the confusion and comments from last week. The Ask Box is open for more costume questions about the man we all love to hate!
