35 Types of Pockets for Your Clothing
The humble pocket is one of the most significant sartorial developments in clothing history. We all use pockets daily, whether to store keys, phones, or small essentials. Over time, pockets have evolved with various designs, features, and configurations, becoming both functional and ornamental elements of our garments.
Pockets can be found on a range of clothing items, including dresses, trousers, jackets, skirts, and bags, enhancing both their utility and aesthetics. Whether you’re looking for extra space or a stylish detail, pockets play a significant role in fashion. Let’s take a deeper dive into the diverse world of pockets!
35 Types of Pockets for Your Clothing
3 Main Types of Pockets
Pockets are typically categorized into three main types: patch pockets, side seam pockets, and flap pockets. Each of these comes with its own unique design, variations, and usage depending on the garment. Let’s explore these main types and some of their popular sub-categories.
1. Patch Pockets
Patch pockets are made by attaching a piece of fabric to the outer surface of the garment, usually with topstitching. This type of pocket is highly visible and often used as a design element.
Common Patch Pocket Variations:
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Accordion Pocket: Known for its gusset, this pocket expands outward and is often found on cargo pants and jackets.
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Bellows Pocket: Similar to the accordion pocket, this one features pleats that expand when the pocket is in use.
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Besom Pocket: Often seen on men’s suit jackets, it has a thin welt around the opening.
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Bias Bound Pocket: A patch pocket with its edges bound on the bias for a clean, secure finish.
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Coin Pocket: That small, almost hidden pocket inside jeans, often referred to as a “watch pocket” or “ticket pocket.”
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Pouch Pocket: This type hangs from the top of the garment, usually without any side seams, offering a simple and casual style.
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Utility Pocket: A patch pocket with multiple compartments, often seen in military-style clothing or workwear.
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Workwear Pocket: A large patch pocket, commonly found in mechanic jackets and work uniforms, designed to hold tools or small items.
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35 Types of Pockets for Your Clothing
2. Side Seam Pockets
Side seam pockets are integrated into the side seams of the garment, creating a hidden pocket that’s functional without disrupting the design of the clothing. They are most commonly found in skirts, dresses, and pants.
Popular Side Seam Pocket Variations:
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Inseam Pocket: Sewn directly into the seams of trousers, skirts, and jackets. They are often invisible and give garments a clean look.
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Side Seam Slit Pocket: Often used in casual clothing, these pockets are made with a slit in the side seam for easy access.
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Discreet Pocket: A hidden pocket sewn inside garments for extra security and a sleek finish.
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Slash Pocket: Also called slant pockets, they have an angled opening and are commonly found in pants, jackets, and blazers.
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35 Types of Pockets for Your Clothing
3. Flap Pockets
Flap pockets are characterized by a fabric flap that covers the pocket opening, often secured with a button or Velcro. They are commonly seen in formal wear, military-style jackets, and casual jackets.
Common Flap Pocket Variations:
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Flap Patch Pocket: A patch pocket with a flap covering the pocket opening, often used in denim jackets.
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Double Flap Pocket: Two flaps on either side of the pocket, commonly seen in casual shirts or jackets.
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Hacking Pocket: A slanted flap pocket, often seen on men’s suit jackets and coats.
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Jeans Pocket: Pockets designed specifically for jeans, often with varied flap designs such as rounded, curved, or pleated flaps.
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Kangaroo Pocket: A large, front-facing pocket that covers the chest, typically found on sweatshirts and hoodies. It’s called “kangaroo” because it resembles a kangaroo pouch.
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35 Types of Pockets for Your Clothing
Other Unique Pocket Designs
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Accordion Pocket: Found on cargo pants and outerwear, these expandable pockets provide extra space when needed.
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Cuff Pocket: A decorative patch pocket with fabric folds around the opening.
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Chest Pocket: Found on men’s jackets, typically a besom pocket for a sleek, formal look.
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Cowl Pocket: A draped pocket often found in sweaters or casual clothing, creating a flowing, relaxed appearance.
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Curved Inset Pocket: A set-in pocket with a curved opening, common in jeans and pants.
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Extending Pocket: A pocket that expands with pleats or folds, offering more space when needed, commonly used in cargo pants.
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Faux Pocket: A “fake” pocket, sewn shut for decorative purposes, common in jeggings or leggings.
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Jetted Pocket: A small, horizontal slit pocket with welts on either side, often seen in formalwear.
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Pork Chop Pocket: A front-facing pocket often found on pants or jeans, resembling the shape of a pork chop.
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Postbox Pocket: A combination of a patch and welt pocket, commonly used in design-driven jackets.
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Sawtooth Pocket: Often seen in western shirts, this pocket features a flap with a sawtooth pattern.
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Shirt Pocket: A basic patch pocket often found on the chest of shirts, either round or angular.
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Stand Pocket: A pocket that has a piece of fabric standing above the pocket opening, creating a unique design.
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Western Pocket: A patch pocket with snap-button closures, typical in cowboy or western-style clothing.
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Welt Pocket: A sleek pocket with welts along the opening, often found in chinos or dress pants.
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35 Types of Pockets for Your Clothing
How to Sew Different Types of Pockets
Here’s a basic overview of how to sew the three main types of pockets:
Patch Pockets
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Fold the top edge of the pocket under.
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Stitch along the fold and press.
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Attach the pocket to the garment with a top stitch.
Inseam Pockets
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Sew the pocket pieces together.
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Attach them to the front and back of the garment.
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Complete the pocket by sewing along the seams.
Slash Pockets
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Cut along the marked line on the front pattern.
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Sew the pocket to the fabric, ensuring the pocket opening is aligned with the slant.
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Press and finish the seams.
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35 Types of Pockets for Your Clothing
35 Types of Pockets for Your Clothing
FAQs
What Is a Patch Pocket?
A patch pocket is a piece of fabric sewn onto the outside of a garment, visible on the exterior. It’s one of the most common types of pockets.
What Is the Pocket on a Hoodie Called?
Kangaroo pockets are commonly found on hoodies, designed with an open front that allows you to slip both hands inside, much like a kangaroo’s pouch.
Final Thoughts
Pockets are an essential, functional, and stylish feature of many garments. With so many different types of pockets, from the classic patch pocket to more unique designs like kangaroo and sawtooth pockets, there’s a style to suit every need and occasion. Understanding the various pocket styles can help you decide which type is best for your clothing design or sewing project. Whether you’re making a garment from scratch or buying one off the shelf, choosing the right pocket can enhance both the look and function of your clothes!
We are a global clothing manufacturer specializing in customization. We offer a wide variety of custom pockets for different types of clothing, including shirts, pants, and dresses. We have extensive experience in this field. Please contact us if you have any needs.
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