What Is The Small Pocket On Jeans For? Your Most Burning Denim Question, Answered
If you bought one or more of the roughly 3 billion pairs of jeans that Statista claimed are sold around the world every year, chances are you've noticed the small pocket sitting above the larger, functional one on your hip. It's way too small to fit a phone or keys, so what the heck is it for? Turns out, it has a very specific purpose — or at least it did.
The denim patch has been around since 1873, when Levi Strauss & Co. and Jacob Davis (known today as Levi's) patented its design. Back then, pocket watches were popular, so the company added the small section on the right side as a practical way to carry and get easy access to the time piece, which would often be chained to belt loop. That's why it's called a watch pocket. Who knew?
As time went on and pocket watches went out of style, it stayed. Jeans later became popular with the likes of railroad workers and miners, who may have used it to hold small items such as gold nuggets.
People have become inventive with how they use their jeans' small pocket
Unfortunately, these days there aren't many of us lucky enough to carry around gold nuggets, so modern denim wearers have gotten creative with what they put inside their tiny pocket. While some use it for coins, others have found it's the perfect size for smaller makeup and beauty products, such as lip balm.
@oddivy obviously made for the @Glossier lip balms
The miniature pocket is still incorporated in most modern jean designs, though it can come and go depending on the latest denim trends. In fall 2023, it was hot to have patch pockets down the legs rather than the traditional style at the hips, so many brands removed the pocket for style reasons. Sidefeel's High Waisted Straight Leg Stretchy Jeans feature welt pockets instead of the classic watch pocket, while Levi Strauss' Signature Gold Totally Shaping Ultimate Pull-on Skinny Jeans were created without the extra pocket for those who prefer a less cluttered, cleaner look. But however you're sporting your jeans, just make sure you're avoiding outdated denim trends. Pocket watch optional.