Bellbottom, also spelled as bell-bottom, is used to describe a style of pants that flares out from the knees to the ankles. The word consists of two parts: "bell" and "bottom". The /b/ and the /ɛ/ sounds in bell are represented by the letters ‘b’ and ‘e’ respectively. The word "bottom" is pronounced with a long /o/ sound, written with the letters ‘bo’. The combination of these two words creates the unique spelling of "bellbottom". It is a term that originated in the 1960s and 1970s fashion industry and is still used today.
Bellbottom refers to a style of trousers that became popular in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It is characterized by its distinctly flared shape, where the pants are tighter around the waist and thighs but flare out dramatically from the knees downwards, creating a bell-shaped silhouette. The term "bellbottom" originated from the combination of "bell," referring to the shape of a bell, and "bottom," denoting the lower part of the trousers.
These pants were prominently associated with the counterculture and fashion movement of the era, representing a rejection of the more traditional and conservative styles that had previously dominated. Bellbottoms became synonymous with the bohemian and hippie culture, as well as with disco fashion in the later part of the 1970s.
The exaggerated flare of bellbottoms allowed for unrestricted movement and provided a distinctive look that set them apart from other trouser styles. The trend quickly gained popularity, with both men and women adopting this fashion statement. Bellbottoms were commonly made from denim, but could also be found in other fabrics, such as corduroy, creating a wide variety of colors and patterns.
Although the popularity of bellbottoms declined after the 1970s, they continue to hold a cultural significance as an iconic symbol of a specific era in fashion history. Even today, bellbottoms occasionally experience revivals in mainstream and retro fashion, serving as a nostalgic reminder of the vibrant and expressive fashion trends of the past.
The word "bellbottom" originated in the 19th century and it is composed of two parts: "bell" and "bottom".
The term "bell" refers to the shape or flare of the trousers. It is derived from the word "bell-shaped", which dates back to the 15th century. The word "bell" in this context describes the widening or flaring shape that resembles the silhouette of a bell when worn.
The term "bottom" refers to the lower part of the trousers, particularly the leg opening or cuff. It is a generic term to describe the end or bottom part of something, used in various contexts.
Combining "bell" and "bottom" together, "bellbottom" specifically refers to trousers that have a distinct flare or widening from the knee down to the leg opening, creating a bell-like shape.