Origins of harem pants It is a fairly loose unisex garment, worn on the lower part of the body. It is characterized by a low crotch, sometimes up to the knees, to allow good ventilation of the legs in hot climates. The fabric is tightened at the ankles to protect against mosquito bites.
The term “harem” refers to the private quarters of women in Muslim households, where they would wear similar garments for modesty and comfort. The style was introduced to Western fashion in the early 20th century, and it quickly became popular among women who sought comfortable and practical clothing.
Poiret himself insisted that he designed harem pants for the chic woman to show off "the harmony of her form and all the freedom of her native suppleness." Adam Geczy suggests that harem pants, as a direct cultural appropriation, represent the point at which Western fashion began seriously challenging traditional ...
However, whenever women left their homes, they did not wear the more revealing trousers, instead wearing baggy ankle length trousers, long tunics and shawls over their upper body and head. The combination of these trousers, and the large mantle effectively concealed the body, and maintained modesty.
Harem Pants for the Free-Spirited | The Veshti Company Lookbook
What body type can wear harem pants?
Harem pants suit most body types when styled correctly, as their loose fit offers comfort and adaptability, while the cinched ankles provide definition.
Sandals, sneakers, or loafers, Avoiding excessive prints or detailing (unless going for an ethnic-inspired look). They're great for creative, confident men, especially in casual settings or vacation. But for offices or business meetings — it's a no.
They are typically worn in Muslim countries, but also extensively in the Polish Commonwealth, in Mallorca, in the Greek countryside, and other places in the Balkans that were influenced by Ottoman Turks prior to World War I.
The purpose of a harem is to protect women from inappropriate contact with men. Closely linked with the term haram, meaning forbidden, the word conveys a sense of sacredness and inviolability. Only husbands and relatives may enter this part of the home. Harems existed in the Middle East long before the rise of Islam.
What is the difference between palazzo and harem pants?
Palazzo pants are also not to be confused with Gaucho trousers, which only extend down to mid-calf length. Harem pants are yet another loose style, but they have a snug cuff around the ankles.
The Harem Pants are great for Men & Women. Be warned, because these are so comfortable, your significant other will steal these from you! Because they're made from the softest delicate premium Thai Rayon, hand washing is highly recommended to ensure their longevity.
It wasn't just Africans, Turkish or Middle-Eastern people donning harem pants. There's strong evidence to suggest that a similar style of trouser was also being worn in south-east Asia; particularly among the Hmong people of China, Vietnam, Laos and Thailand. However, there were marked differences in style.
The original harems were something different. Western artists turned the haram into a kind of sexual playground. But originally the Harem was simply the area of the house where the female relatives and often the children lived. The word haram comes from the Arabic haram which means something forbidden or kept to safe.
In conclusion, lowering garments below the ankles out of pride, especially in a society that uses low garments as a way of showing off, is prohibited by the consensus of the scholars. However, lowering pants below the ankles in modern society is not sinful or Ḥarām because it is not considered a way of showing off.
And for Spring/Summer 2025, it seems the fashion houses were at it again—but this time, it was our trousers they had their eye on. No longer reserved for backpacking travellers and kooky artistic types, harem pants (or balloon trousers, as they've also become known) have had a reinvention this season.
Whether you're dressing them up for a formal event or keeping it casual for a day out, the versatility of harem pants ensures that you'll always look and feel your best. In conclusion, harem pants are a fantastic option for plus-size individuals looking to diversify their wardrobe.
You can wear your harem trousers smart or casual, throw on a pair of biker boots in cold weather or go all summery with flat sandals, a pair of colourful Converse or deck shoes. You can wear them alone, all cool and lovely, or over leggings or long johns to stay extra cosy.
Originally from China, harem pants are very popular with riders because they are practical and comfortable. It was quickly adopted by a new group of people: the merchants of the Far East who also loved it for its comfort during their long wanderings along the Silk Road, through high mountains and burning deserts.
Besides its practical advantages in the climate of the Middle East, loose-fitting clothing is also generally regarded as conforming to Islamic teachings, which stipulate that body areas which are sexual in nature must be hidden from public view.
Some scholars considered it Makrooh used the Hadith of Abu Bakr (RA) as evidence that it is allowed when there is no arrogance involved. Although there is a difference of opinion regarding the matter, one (to remain on the safer side) should try to keep his pants above his ankles at all times.
The shorts are around knee length (in Islam). Yes, you can wear leggings under your shorts in gym if you like. My daughter actually just wears leggings with a long tshirt during PE.
What is the difference between harem pants and parachute pants?
What's the difference between harem pants and parachute pants? Harem pants and parachute pants are similar in their loose, baggy fit, but harem pants often have a dropped crotch, whereas parachute pants typically have a more standard crotch height. Both are comfortable and stylish options.
French fashion designer Paul Poiret introduced the pants to the West in 1910, inspired by the Middle East. At that time, trousers without a skirt above them were 'not done' for women, but Poiret wanted to liberate women with the harem trousers. It was worn by women in 'high society' and later by dancers and artists.
Here at Harem Pants, our ethos is simple: to engage in fair trade practices with our staffs, partners, community, and customers while remaining compassionate towards them. Family holds a special place in our hearts because most of our staff and artisans are family or close friends.
