Clamdiggers are mid-calf pants, often associated with the beach, that are looser than capris. They were historically used by clam diggers and boaters and can be worn by both men and women. They are cooler than long pants but more modest than shorts and can be accessorized or kept simple.
Clamdiggers are mid-calf pants, closely related to capri pants. Unlike capris, however, clamdiggers tend to be baggier, creating a casual look that many people associate with the beach. Clamdiggers can be found in many department stores, especially in the summer months, and come in a wide variety of cuts and styles.
You may also hear clamdiggers referred to as three-quarter pants or pedal pushers, and some people wear “clamdiggers” and “capris” interchangeably. The defining point of the style is the length, which is shorter than conventional pants, but longer than shorts. Depending on the designer, clamdiggers can be hemmed just below the knee, or down to mid-calf.
The name refers to the fact that clamdiggers are ideal for the beach, allowing people to wade into shallow water and play in the sand without worrying about getting their pants cuffs wet or dirty. Historically, clamdiggers have been used by people who dig for clams for a living, and by some members of the boating community. These pants are also useful for biking, as the short length prevents the pants from getting caught on the gears and pedals, which explains the slang term “pedal pushers.”
Clamdiggers can be worn by both men and women, although they are more common on women. The peak of the style came in the 1950s, when numerous celebrities wore the pants, although the pants began to make a comeback in the late 1990s. Depending on the style, the pants may be accessorized with a belt, embroidery or other embellishments, or kept simple, so they don’t distract from a dressy top or bold set of shoes. For shorter individuals, finding good clamdiggers can be a challenge, as the length may seem odd on shorter legs.
Many people like to wear clamdiggers during the summer months because they are cooler than long pants, but more modest than shorts. These casual pants can also be paired well with a wide variety of things, from tops for the beach to button-down blouses for casual gatherings. Women tend to look best in clamdiggers when wearing heels or wedges, as these shoes elongate the calves and tend to make the rear a bit perkier.
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