part IV: the art of dress

part a: the dress practice of wearing pantaloons is body subordinate. pants draws attention away from the body because they were loose-fitting and do not conform to the body's curves.

part b: as far as aesthetics go...well, pants should be worn with one leg in each leg of the pants. this is the prescribed form. however, to be more specific in the case of women wearing pants in the 19th century, pants were not the prescribed form of dress at all. women were supposed to wear large skirts that covered their whole lower half. by wearing pants, they sent a very strong message of social defiance.

part c: women wearing pantaloons was a shocking act of defiance to what was attractive during this time in history. it was inappropriate for women to show even their ankles, let alone their legs.

part d: the social reforms of the 19th century were very important. women that did not conform and wore pants, and those who supported this movement, helped bring about social change that would alter america and the world forever. if these changes had not happened, women would still be wearing skirts, and who know if pants would have ever evolved. blue jeans might not even exist. fortunately, men and women can now showcase their individuality and wear pants as much as they like.