Hotpants

Bebe Hot Pants 01 2008 (cropped)

Man wearing pink hot-pants at Nottingham Pride MMB 59 (cropped)

Hotpants are a style of short shorts designed to emphasize the buttocks and the legs. They are a significant fashion trend that emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s, becoming a symbol of fashion rebellion and sexual liberation during that era. Hotpants can be made from various materials, including denim, cotton, silk, and leather, and are worn by people of all genders, although they are predominantly marketed towards women.

History

The term "hotpants" is believed to have been first used by Women's Wear Daily in 1970 to describe shorts made in luxury fabrics such as velvet and satin for fashionable wear, rather than their more practical counterparts worn in sports. The introduction of hotpants is often attributed to fashion designer Mary Quant, who was among the pioneers of the miniskirt in the 1960s. Quant's designs for short shorts were part of a larger fashion movement that sought to challenge traditional norms and promote a more liberated approach to women's wear.

Fashion and Cultural Impact

Hotpants experienced their peak popularity in the early 1970s, making a bold statement in women's fashion by showcasing the legs and promoting a sense of freedom and sexuality. They were often worn with boots, tight t-shirts or tank tops, and were accessorized with belts or chains. The trend was not limited to everyday wear but also made its way into performance costumes for musicians and dancers, further cementing its place in popular culture.

Despite their popularity, hotpants also sparked controversy and debate. They were seen by some as a symbol of empowerment, allowing women to express their individuality and sexuality freely. Others criticized them for objectifying women and contributing to the sexualization of public spaces. The debate around hotpants reflects broader discussions about fashion, gender norms, and the body politics of clothing.

Decline and Revival

By the late 1970s, the popularity of hotpants began to wane as fashion trends shifted towards more conservative styles. However, they have seen several revivals over the decades, particularly in the 1990s and 2000s, as part of a broader nostalgia for vintage fashion. Today, hotpants continue to be worn, often in contexts such as music festivals, nightclubs, and themed parties, where they embody a playful and provocative aesthetic.

In Popular Culture

Hotpants have made numerous appearances in popular culture, from movies and television shows to music videos and live performances. They are often associated with iconic figures in entertainment, such as Daisy Duke from The Dukes of Hazzard, who is known for her signature denim hotpants, colloquially known as "Daisy Dukes".

See Also

• Fashion in the 1970s
• Miniskirt
• Sexual liberation
• Women's liberation movement