Spats

Spats, short for spatterdashes, are coverings worn over the instep and ankle of shoes to protect footwear and hosiery from wet or muddy conditions and to provide a neat, uniform appearance in some forms of dress. They typically cover the top of the foot and part of the ankle, with lengths ranging from ankle-height to mid-calf or sometimes knee-length. Spats are usually made from wool, felt, cotton, satin, or leather, and they fasten with buttons, hooks, or snaps; elastic at the top is common in more modern designs. They may be worn for practical protection or as a fashion accessory.

Historically, spats gained widespread popularity in Europe and North America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of men’s formal and daywear. They were commonly paired with frock coats or morning dress and also appeared in women’s fashion in some styles. Their use declined after the 1920s as trousers and footwear evolved and casual attire became more prevalent, though spats persist in stage costumes, vintage fashion, and reenactments. In contemporary contexts, modern versions are often decorative, but some makers produce functional gaiters that cover the lower leg for weather protection without implying the historical style.