Spats, short for spatterdashes, are footwear accessories worn over shoes to shield them from dirt and water. Originating in the 1600s as practical gear, they morphed into stylish status symbols by the early 20th century. Yet, today, they’re a rare sight.

Why did men abandon them?

Here are the key reasons behind their decline, plus a look at whether they still have a place in modern fashion.

Reason #1: Sanitation Improved, and Spats Lost Their Purpose

In the 1600s, streets were not the cleanest places to stroll. Between poor waste disposal and horse-drawn transport, grime was part of everyday life. Spats emerged as a solution: protective coverings that shielded expensive riding boots from mud, filth, and manure.

By the Edwardian Era, spats had evolved from function to fashion. Clean, white spats became a status symbol—proof you could afford to keep them spotless. Royal endorsements, such as sightings of King George V wearing spats, only boosted their popularity.

But with urban sanitation reforms and the rise of automobiles, streets grew cleaner, and the protective role of spats faded. They became purely ornamental, often worn to add a two-tone contrast over shoes. That aesthetic need was soon filled by spectator shoes, which offered the same visual appeal without the added layer.

Reason #2: Changing Values: From Flex to Faux Pas

In the early 20th century, wearing clean, pale-colored spats was a subtle way to flaunt wealth and social standing. The more impractical the color, the more prestige they conveyed.

However, this extravagant gesture quickly lost its appeal during the Great Depression. As hardship became widespread, flashy accessories came to be seen as tone-deaf. The era called for frugality and modesty, not flamboyance.

This cultural shift intensified during World War II. Excess was considered unpatriotic, and accessories like spats—especially when contrasted with the utilitarian gaiters worn by soldiers—felt inappropriate. The association with pre-war glamor and upper-class arrogance hastened their decline.

Reason #3: Spats Became Costumey

Pop culture hasn’t been kind to spats.

Cartoons, films, and songs like “Puttin’ on the Ritz” often used them to signal “Old Money” or caricature villains and gangsters—think Al Capone or vaudeville dandies. Over time, they became a visual shorthand for outdated snobbery or theatrical flair.

This baggage makes spats a tough sell today. Outside of niche vintage communities, they’re often dismissed as costume rather than clothing.

Reason #4: High Maintenance to Wear

Part of the appeal of spats was their demand for cleanliness. But that quickly became a drawback.

Spats, especially in white or light grey, were prone to staining. They featured buckles, buttons, piping, and leather straps—materials that couldn’t simply be tossed into a wash with your shirts and socks. Each pair required hand-cleaning, often after every wear.

As domestic help became less common and households modernized, this level of upkeep felt excessive. People opted for easier-care clothing, and non-essential accessories like spats were the first to go.

Reason #5: Casualization of Footwear

Even the most elegant pair of spats needs a solid base—a pair of well-polished dress shoes. But in recent decades, daily style has moved far from formalwear.

Sneakers, sandals, loafers, and even “frankenshoes” have taken over. With fewer people wearing oxfords or derbies regularly, the idea of layering spats on top feels alien to most.

Even in classic menswear circles, many opt for more practical alternatives, leaving spats to those with an especially dedicated aesthetic.

Reason #6: Better Technology Replaced Them

Spats were originally meant to keep your feet clean and dry—but modern materials do that better.

Rubberized boots, waterproof leather, synthetic insoles, and even high-quality galoshes outperform spats in practically every way. Plus, with streets far cleaner today than a century ago, the need for foot coverings is minimal in urban life.

For actual outdoor use, most people now turn to durable boots or overshoes designed with modern performance in mind.

So… Can You Still Wear Spats?

Absolutely. But know what you’re getting into.

Even among classic menswear enthusiasts, spats are rare. When worn, they’re typically part of a carefully curated look inspired by a specific historical period. Think stroller suits, morning dress, or button boots—not your everyday business casual.

That said, if you like the look, there’s no reason not to make them part of your signature style. Quality vintage or reproduction pairs can be found through specialty shops or platforms like Etsy, eBay, and A. Marchesan in Sweden.

Tip: To wear them successfully, pair them with dress shoes—not sneakers—and carry the look with confidence.

Conclusion

Spats moved from practical necessity to social status symbol to nostalgic relic. Their disappearance mirrors a broader shift toward utility, simplicity, and low-maintenance fashion.

But for those who appreciate the drama and elegance of bygone styles, spats offer a distinctive, head-turning statement—equal parts history and style.

Do you think spats deserve a comeback? Share your thoughts below!

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