MAYS MODECOLLEGE

Marlene Dietrich trousers

The always-good trousers. Sexy, businesslike, and particularly feminine. That last part is interesting, because originally it belonged to men's clothing.

What is it?

When Marlene Dietrich went to the premiere of her film in a men's suit and wide trousers in 1932, the world was in shock. It was 1932. Coco Chanel had just thrown off the corset, which was already groundbreaking, but this... This outfit was even discussed in Congress. Whether it was against the law for a woman to wear such a suit. Was I very old if I now mention Barbra Streisand's ‘Yentl’? Anyway. We are grateful to Congress to this day that the wide men's trousers got a thumbs up, because what would we do without them?

Who wore it?

Marlene, of course, who didn't understand what the ‘fuss about’ was. She had been wearing trousers for years, found them comfortable, but now she was suddenly photographed and it was front-page news. Coco Chanel had also been wearing trousers for years. I am in love with a photo of Coco taken somewhere in the twenties, where Coco combines her signature marinière with wide trousers. The photo could have been taken yesterday, her look is that current. But it is almost a hundred years old. Then of course came Greta Garbo, but these days you see almost every confident woman in such trousers, from Victoria Beckham to Angelina Jolie.

How did it originate?

Only during World War II were women allowed to wear trousers, but only if it was useful and they had to work in the fields. After World War II it was okay, but only for leisure moments. In fashion, it really became acceptable in the seventies.

What characterizes the trousers?

Narrow and high-waisted with wide flared legs made of a flowing fabric. With its name, it honors the most famous wearer and thus the trousers stand for femininity, strength, and disregard for the rules.

How much does it cost?

You have them in all kinds, flavors, and prices. I bought a very charming pair at Filippa K, and it was really quite affordable.