Pants, Parties, and Progress: Breaking Old Rules Did you know? Women were prohibited from participating in nightlife and wearing pants in public until the 1920s! During the Victorian Era, social norms kept women at home in the evenings, as being out alone could tarnish their reputation. And as for pants? It wasn’t until 1923 that the U.S. Attorney General declared it acceptable for women to wear them—though many regions clung to restrictive dress codes for years. The women’s rights movement of the early 20th century, including suffragists, helped break these barriers. Practicality also played a role, as women donned pants during World War I while stepping into traditionally male roles. While DSHS doesn’t have programs connected to these historic changes, we think they’re a fascinating part of Women’s History Month. Let’s celebrate how far we’ve come!
