What’s in a Pocket? The History and Functionality of Denim Details

Denim may be all about the fit, but the details? That’s where the real magic happens. And few details are as overlooked (and underappreciated) as the humble pocket.

It’s just a little square of fabric… right?
Wrong. It’s a piece of fashion history, a tool of the trade, and honestly, one of the main reasons you even like those jeans in the first place (yes, we said it).

At Kings of Indigo, we’re obsessed with quality denim from seam to rivet—and that means understanding the why behind every stitch. So let’s deep dive into one of the most iconic elements of any pair of jeans: the pocket.

1. The Coin Pocket: The Tiny One with Big Origins

You know that mini pocket inside the front right pocket? It’s not just there to collect lint and lose your last breath mint.

Originally, it was designed in the 1800s for cowboys and miners to stash their pocket watches. Back then, watches were fragile and expensive—so they needed a safe spot to stay put during long, rugged days.

Today? It's mostly used for coins, lip balm, or pretending you know what it’s for. But KOI still includes it—because denim without history is just... pants.

2. The Rivets: Tiny but Mighty

Those little metal studs on your pocket corners? They’re not just for decoration.

In 1873, a tailor named Jacob Davis came up with the idea of using rivets to reinforce stress points, especially on work pants worn by gold miners. The result? Pants that didn’t fall apart at the seams. Literally.

Fun fact: Rivets were the innovation that launched Levi Strauss & Co., and became the blueprint for what we now call “jeans.”

At KOI, we use recycled metal rivets for extra strength and sustainability.

3. Back Pocket Stitching: Your Jeans’ Signature

Back pockets aren't just for symmetry (though bless them for that). The stitching pattern is often what sets one brand apart from another. It’s the denim world’s equivalent of a designer logo—but subtler and way cooler.

At KOI, our back pocket designs are clean, thoughtful, and always purposeful. No gimmicks—just timeless design rooted in denim heritage.

4. Pocket Bags: The Hidden MVP

Let’s talk pocket bags—the inside lining you rarely see but use every day. Cheap denim often cuts corners here (flimsy, thin, wears out fast). Not us.

Our pocket bags are made from sturdy organic cotton, so they last longer, hold more, and won’t rip when you shove your phone, keys, or an entire avocado in there (no judgment).

Because details matter. Even the ones no one sees.

5. Functional vs. Fake Pockets: Let’s Be Honest

If you’ve ever bought a pair of jeans (or worse, pants) and discovered the pockets were fake? We feel your pain.

At KOI, that’s a hard no. All our jeans come with fully functional pockets, because you shouldn’t need a bag just to carry your stuff. That’s what denim was literally invented for.

So… What’s Really in a Pocket?

History. Function. Identity. A pocket might seem small, but in denim, it’s a big deal. It tells a story—of workwear, rebellion, evolution, and everyday utility.

And at Kings of Indigo, we treat it like the design element it is: reinforced, refined, and ready for real life.

So next time you slip your hand into your back pocket or dig around for a stray coin, remember: that little square of fabric has been doing the most since the 1800s.

👖 Explore KOI denim, where every detail matters HERE