frontpocket

Frontpocket is a term used to describe a pocket positioned on the front side of a garment. It is a common feature on trousers and jeans, outerwear such as jackets and vests, and on some shirts. Frontpockets are designed for easy access to small items, including keys, coins, wallets, and mobile devices. Their size, shape, and closure vary with style and function.

On jeans, front pockets typically consist of two large front pockets and a smaller coin or watch pocket inside the right front pocket; this inner pocket originated in the 19th century and remains a distinctive element of many denim designs. Jackets may use patch pockets, slash or welt pockets with or without flaps. Shirts often have chest front pockets in welt or patch styles.

Frontpockets evolved from simple hand-warming features to deliberate storage components as garment design advanced. The coin or watch pocket became a recognizable feature of denim garments, while modern iterations balance accessibility, security, and aesthetics through various stitching, rivets, zippers, or magnetic closures.

Construction and materials vary by garment. Frontpockets can be made from cotton, denim, leather-trim variants, or blends, and may be reinforced with rivets or bar tacks. Seams are often double-stitched to withstand use. Closure types range from flaps, zippers, and buttons to no closure, depending on intended use.

Placement near the natural resting position of the hands makes frontpockets convenient, but improper depth or placement can cause items to protrude or be lost when seated or moving. For security, some frontpockets employ zippers or hidden closures in travel clothing.

See also: watch pocket, coin pocket, welt pocket, patch pocket.