Breeches

The term "breeches" refers to a style of trousers or pants that extend to the knee or just below the knee and then fasten tightly around the lower leg. Breeches were a common element of historical clothing, especially in the 17th, 18th, and early 19th centuries.

European; Breeches circa 1710 Wikipedia

Until the early 19th century, breeches, which extended to just below the knee, were the standard garment for gentlemen.

In 17th century Geneva, John Calvin forbid the wearing of slashed breeches. 

The man's fly was introduced into the breeches in the days of King Charles I.

In 1670, breeches with built-in pockets came into fashion and men dispensed with their handbags. But they did continue to carry a little netted "purse" for money inside the pocket.

Edward Gibbon suffered from a malady now believed to be hydrocele, according to the Merck Manual. This condition caused his testicles to swell with fluid to extraordinary proportions. This chronic inflammation caused Gibbon great physical discomfort in a time when men wore close-fitting breeches.

Beau Brummell promoted tailored trousers, which were to replace breeches-and-hose combinations. Breeches were replaced by long, wide trousers by 1815.

The fashion for longer trousers was not welcomed by all. Trinity College, Cambridge, said that any student wearing them would be regarded as absent, while the clergy of Sheffield were warned that any preacher who wore trousers would not be allowed to occupy a pulpit.

Over time, men's fashion evolved, and breeches gradually gave way to longer trousers. Full-length trousers became more common during the 19th century, and by the 20th century, they had become the standard form of lower-body clothing for men.

There are specific contexts where breeches are still worn:

Horse riding: Certain types of breeches, like jodhpurs and full seat breeches, are preferred attire for horseback riding, offering comfort, flexibility, and grip in the saddle.

Fencing: Fencing breeches are specially designed for fencing, allowing for optimal leg movement and protection.

Formal attire: In some specific formal situations, like certain European court ceremonies, breeches might be part of the traditional livery.