Spats, also known as gaiters or spatterdashes, originated in 18th century England as a practical accessory to protect one’s lower legs from mud and water. Originally designed for military officers’ boots, these long gaiters were commonly worn in the countryside. However, by the 1870s, a shorter version of spats emerged as a fashionable trend for urban wear.
The term “spats” is actually an abbreviation of “spatterdash,” which perfectly describes the purpose of this accessory. Made from the same materials as trousers, spats were initially created to shield shoes and ankles from the dirt and muck encountered while walking in muddy areas. They were particularly useful during rainy seasons or when traversing unpaved roads.
As time went on, spats became more than just a practical solution. Between the years 1910 and the mid-1930s, they transformed into an elegant fashion accessory primarily associated with well-dressed men of the time, including gangsters and dandies. This shift in perception turned spats into a symbol of sophistication and style.
Putting on football spats follows a specific process. First, sit down and put on your football socks. Then, slip the left spat over your foot and pull it up toward your knee. After that, put on your left cleat and tie it up securely. Roll the nylon spat down over the cleat, and finally, pull the bottom of the spat down under the heel of your cleat. This ensures that the spat covers the entire shoe and provides the desired protection.
Although initially associated with men’s fashion, spats were eventually embraced by both men and women in the early 20th century. They even found their way into shoes and boots, becoming an integrated part of footwear design. This further solidified their status as a fashionable and timeless accessory.
Spats originated as a practical solution to protect shoes and ankles from mud and water. However, they quickly evolved into a stylish men’s accessory, associated with well-dressed individuals of the early 20th century. While they may have faded from popular fashion in recent times, spats remain a fascinating piece of sartorial history, reflecting the ever-changing trends and tastes of society.
What Was The Purpose Of Spats?
The purpose of spats, also known as short gaiters or spatterdashes, was to protect the lower legs and shoes from dirt, dust, mud, and other elements. Originally, they were primarily worn by Englishmen in the countryside during the eighteenth century to shield their legs from muddy terrain. However, by the 1870s, spats became fashionable for town wear as well.
Here are some key points about the purpose of spats:
1. Protection: Spats were designed to provide a barrier between the lower legs and the environment, particularly to prevent mud and dirt from soiling trousers and shoes. They effectively shielded the wearer’s legs, keeping them clean and presentable.
2. Fashionable accessory: As spats gained popularity in urban areas, they became a fashionable accessory that added a touch of elegance to one’s attire. They were often made from the same fabric as trousers, ensuring a cohesive and coordinated look.
3. Practicality: In addition to their aesthetic appeal, spats also had practical benefits. They kept the lower legs warm, especially during colder seasons, acting as an extra layer of insulation. Furthermore, they offered some protection against rain, snow, and other weather conditions.
4. Style statement: Wearing spats was considered a sign of sophistication and refinement. They added a touch of formality to men’s attire, particularly when paired with formal footwear such as dress shoes. Spats were commonly worn by gentlemen, professionals, and those attending formal events.
Spats served both practical and fashionable purposes. They protected the lower legs and shoes from dirt, while also adding a stylish touch to men’s attire. Whether for country or town wear, spats were a versatile accessory that combined functionality with elegance.
Why Are They Called Spats?
Spats are called spats due to their historical association with a longer garment known as spatterdashes. The term “spatterdashes” originated in 18th Century England and referred to a protective accessory worn by military officers to shield their boots from mud and dirt. Over time, these spatterdashes evolved into shorter, more fashionable accessories that were worn by both men and women. Eventually, they became commonly known as spats.
The term “spats” is believed to have derived from the word “spatterdash” itself, with the “-dash” part being replaced by “-spat” to create a shorter, more concise term.
It is worth noting that spats also became integrated into shoes and boots, with manufacturers designing footwear that already had spats built into them. This allowed individuals to enjoy the aesthetic appeal and functionality of spats without the need for separate accessories.
To summarize, spats are called spats because they were originally derived from spatterdashes, which were protective accessories worn by military officers. The term “spats” is believed to have originated from the word “spatterdash” itself.
What Are Gangster Spats?
Gangster spats were a fashionable accessory for men during the early 20th century, particularly between 1910 and the mid-1930s. Originally, spats were designed as protective coverings for shoes and ankles, serving to shield them from mud and water while walking. However, over time, spats evolved into a stylish and elegant fashion statement.
Gangster spats were primarily associated with the fashion tastes of gangsters and dandies, who were known for their impeccable dress sense. These individuals were often seen as trendsetters and influencers when it came to men’s fashion during that era.
Here are some key points about gangster spats:
1. Purpose: Initially, spats were practical accessories designed to protect shoes and ankles from dirt, mud, and water.
2. Transformation into a fashion statement: Spats gradually transitioned into a fashionable accessory that added a touch of sophistication and elegance to a man’s attire.
3. Gangster association: Gangsters, who were notorious figures during the Prohibition era, embraced spats as part of their distinctive style. Wearing spats became a symbol of their status and affluence.
4. Dandy influence: Dandies, known for their flamboyant and extravagant fashion choices, also popularized the wearing of spats. They were often seen as trendsetters and had a significant impact on men’s fashion during that time.
5. Material and design: Gangster spats were typically made from fabrics such as canvas or leather, and they covered the ankle and lower leg. They were characterized by their button or strap closures, which allowed them to be securely fastened over shoes.
6. Association with elegance: Gangster spats added a touch of refinement and sophistication to a man’s ensemble, elevating their overall appearance. They were often worn with tailored suits, fedora hats, and other stylish accessories.
7. Decline in popularity: By the mid-1930s, gangster spats began to lose their appeal as fashion trends evolved. They gradually fell out of favor, giving way to new styles and trends in men’s fashion.
Gangster spats were originally designed for practical purposes but eventually became a fashionable accessory associated with gangsters and dandies. They symbolized elegance and sophistication, adding a touch of refinement to men’s attire during the early 20th century.
How Do You Wear Spat?
To wear spats for football, follow these steps:
1. Start by sitting down and putting on your football socks. Make sure they are pulled up to your knees.
2. Take the left spat and slip it over your foot. Gently pull it up towards your knee, ensuring it covers your entire calf.
3. Put on your left cleat and tie it up securely. Make sure it fits comfortably.
4. Roll the nylon spat down over the cleat. It should cover the top part of the cleat and extend slightly beyond it.
5. Pull the bottom of the spat down under the heel of your cleat. This will help keep it in place and prevent it from slipping.
6. Repeat the same steps for the right spat. Slip it over your foot, pull it up to your knee, put on your right cleat, roll the spat down over it, and tuck the bottom under the heel.
7. Once both spats are in place, stand up and make any necessary adjustments to ensure they fit snugly and comfortably.
Remember, spats are designed to provide additional support and protection. They can help keep your socks and cleats in place during gameplay. Properly wearing spats can enhance your performance on the field.
Conclusion
Spats are a type of protective accessory for the lower legs that originated in 18th Century England. Originally known as spatterdashes, they were designed to shield military officers’ boots from mud. Over time, spats evolved into a fashionable item worn by both men and women. They were initially created to protect shoes and ankles from dirt and water while walking, but by the early 20th Century, they became a stylish accessory associated with well-dressed men, including gangsters and dandies. Spats were often made of the same material as trousers and were commonly integrated into shoes and boots. They provided a sophisticated touch to one’s attire and were widely worn during the early 1900s. Today, spats are less common but are still occasionally seen in formal dress or historical reenactments, serving as a reminder of their once-popular status in the world of fashion.
