A royal intervention
From Rajasthan’s glorious sand dunes to Savile Row, ‘the golden mile of tailoring’ in London, the journey of the Jodhpurs is a tale of innovation, utility, and style. It’s a story of clever sartorial innovation and a rare cultural crossover between India and the rest of the world.
It all began in the princely state of Marwar, where Pratap Singh of Idar, Jodhpur—an accomplished Polo player—grew frustrated with traditional riding breeches.
Seeking comfort and better mobility, he designed a new version inspired by the Indian churidar. These breeches were tight at the calves, baggy at the thighs, and made from sturdier fabric—ideal for horse riding and Polo.
By the early 1890s, the eponymous pants were being produced in Jodhpur under Pratap Singh’s guidance. However, it was only post Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee celebrations in 1897 that India’s ingenious innovation received global attention.
From Jodhpur to the world
Legend has it, while in London, Pratap found himself in need of another pair, so he made his way to a tailor in Savile Row. When the tailor asked him what the new trousers were called, Pratap casually named them Jodhpurs, after his hometown, Jodhpur.
The design soon gained international appeal. French General Gaston, Marquis de Galliffet adopted a similar style for his cavalry regiments, further popularizing the look in military uniforms through the Galliffet trousers.
A global fashion favorite!
By the early 20th century, Jodhpurs had transcended horseback riding, having become a major fashion trend, especially among women. Pioneer aviators like Amelia Earhart and Amy Johnson sported Jodhpurs during their daring flights.
Jodhpurs also became popular in Hollywood among directors and actors who chose to wear it to create an aura of strictness and discipline.
The spirit of Jodhpurs lives on—in police uniforms, equestrian events, and runways.
*This article has been curated by Hook. All claims and opinions expressed belong to the original author. Hook does not verify or endorse the information presented and is not responsible for its accuracy.*
