A ticket pocket on a suit jacket or blazer is a small extra pocket located just above the right front pocket. Ticket pockets have an interesting history and serve a variety of purposes. While many men’s suits feature a ticket pocket, they are not entirely ubiquitous. Understanding the origins, uses, and potential drawbacks of ticket pockets can help you determine if this detail is right for your wardrobe.
Origins and History of the Ticket Pocket
The ticket pocket has a long history that dates back hundreds of years. Here is an overview of the origins and evolution of this classic detail:
1700s – Early Travel Era Origins
In the 1700s, long distance travel was becoming more common. Roads were rough and modes of transportation like carriages and horses were frequently used for trips. During this era, ticket pockets started appearing in men’s waistcoats and jackets. It is believed they were used to hold small essential items for travel like coins, tickets, a pocket watch, or a train schedule.
1800s – Formal Suit Jacket Standard
By the 1800s, the Industrial Revolution was in full swing and suits were increasingly becoming everyday professional attire for men. The tailored suit jacket started replacing the looser frock coat, and ticket pockets became a standard element of these new garments. They allowed men to have easy access to small essentials without needing to carry around additional bags.
1900s – Continued Importance
Despite changes in transportation and technology, ticket pockets held their importance in the 20th century. With international business travel, they still served a functional purpose. The ticket pocket also became woven into the traditional design and tailoring of suit jackets. Men’s suits without one seemed oddly missing this classic detail.
2000s – Trending Downward
In recent decades, the functionality of the ticket pocket has decreased. Modern travel no longer relies on physical tickets. Some suit makers and buyers have started viewing the ticket pocket as old-fashioned or unnecessary. Though they remain common, you may notice a slight downward trend in their inclusion on modern suit designs.
Common Uses
Here are some of the ways ticket pockets have been commonly used over time:
Holding Tickets
One of the earliest uses of the ticket pocket was to hold train, boat, carriage, or theater tickets. Tickets were small, flat slips of paper that could easily fit.
Storing Coins and Cash
The extra pocket was useful for keeping coins, cash, a billfold or money clip convenient without stuffing up the main pockets.
Holding a Pocket Watch
Pocket watches were the most common type of watch up until the early 1900s. The ticket pocket provided a handy spot to store it.
Stashing Small Personal Items
Beyond money and tickets, small personal effects like a handkerchief, cigarette case, calling card holder, or matches could be carried.
Today’s Uses
The ticket pocket has less obvious utility today, but some wearers still use it for items like:
– A small folding knife or pocket tool
– Breath mints or medications like aspirin
– A key or keycard for work
– A flash drive or other small tech accessory
– A casino chip, poker chip, or lucky charm
Pros and Cons of the Ticket Pocket
The ticket pocket brings certain advantages and disadvantages to a suit jacket. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
– Part of the traditional and classic suit jacket design
– Provides a dedicated space for small personal items
– Items are less likely to create bulges or lumps in main pockets
– Easy access to frequently used items
– Distinctive visual detail and tailored accent
Cons
– Less functionality in modern times
– Can appear frivolous or outdated to some
– Items may slip down into the pocket and be forgotten
– Can be difficult to access items when sitting down
– Represents additional tailoring effort and cost
Inclusion in Modern Suits
Today ticket pockets can be found on most classic American and British suit designs. However, their prevalence is decreasing compared to decades past. Here are some notes about ticket pockets in modern suits:
Still in Most Classic American Suits
American suits from traditional designers like Ralph Lauren, Brooks Brothers, and Hart Schaffner Marx still commonly feature a ticket pocket. It is seen as part of the classic American style.
Still Typical on British Tailored Suits
British suit designs are quite traditional. Brands like Burberry, Paul Smith, and Marks and Spencer tend to keep the ticket pocket.
Less Common on Italian/Euro Designs
Italian brands like Armani, Gucci, and Brioni tend to offer less formal suit designs. Ticket pockets are viewed as an old-fashioned element and are often excluded.
Sometimes Absent from Modern/Slim Fits
More modern, slim, and casual suits from youthful brands may lack a ticket pocket. However, classic fits from the same brands will include it.
Can Be Left Off Less Expensive Suits
Some budget suits brands remove the ticket pocket as a cost savings measure during manufacturing. So very inexpensive suits often omit this detail.
Conclusion
While they started as a functional travel necessity, today ticket pockets remain as a timeless style detail. They add a classic accent to a suit, even if their utility has diminished. When well-executed, the ticket pocket highlights careful suit tailoring. But when poorly done, it can just look like an empty flap of fabric. Deciding whether you prefer the look and functionality of a ticket pocket on your suits comes down to personal taste. But understanding the history and purpose behind this enduring detail provides helpful context.