subject: Keep on pushin' with pedal pushers [print this page] Keep on pushin' with pedal pushers Keep on pushin' with pedal pushers
The Then and Now of Pedal Pushers
Who invented pedal pushers and how did they become so popular? Love them or hate them, pedal pushers always come back, stronger than ever.So why were they ever created? Who thought of making women's pants only knee-length? What has made their design last for so long over the years?
Pedal pushers were originally designed for people who rode bicycles and did not want to get their pants tangled up in the gears. Trying to solve this problem, the idea of "short-long" pants was born. Pedal pushers were created during the 50's when cycling was on the rise with cyclist in mind, particularly the women, as dresses were the norm.
Throughout the years, pedal pushers took on many different names. These names included clam diggers, toreador pants and motor scooter slacks. They have also evolved into several variations of short, but not-quite-long pants. Capris in particular are one of the most commonly seen versions of pedal pushers. Capri pants were developed by European fashion designer Sonja de Lennart in 1948. However, capris typically go ankle, whereas pedal pushers stop at the knees. Apparently capris were inspired from the island of Capri just off the coast of Italy.
One of the main reasons pedal pushers have stuck around throughout history is because they are functional. Pedal pushers only extend to the knee joint just below the thigh. This allows for free movement of the knees, not just for cyclists, but for anyone who desires to wear pants that offer more coverage than traditional shorts, and one that offers more space for the knees and calves to move freely. Pedal pushers come in several different fabrics. Some of the more popular types have been jeans and stretchy legging material. Pedal pushers maintained their presence through history through evolving making them an ageless item of clothing in womens fashion.
Fifties movie starlet Audrey Hepburn was one of the first to popularize pedal pushers. After pedal pushers started to become a staple to the womens wardrobe, they were worn in more settings besides cycling. Hepburn promoted pedal pusher while cycling and sailing in her movie roles. Audredy Hepburn helped to start another fashion statement by wearing capris as they came into popularity . With such a the radiant personality, Hepburn almost single handedly created a demand for pedal pushers.
The resurgence ofpedal pushershas led to many clothing lines to creating their own version of yesterday's pedal pushers. They are the perfect bottoms to wear in the heat when you want some coverage to protect yourself in the sun while giving the leg room to breathe. Every woman should have a pair in their closets today!
