It just seems pointless.

They aren't intended for use, just for look.

It's only the inside pockets that are meant for use.

At least with suits anyway.

I've heard they stitch them up so that shoplifters don't put things in the pockets then buy the jacket and walk out with it. I don't really know.

Its so that people trying them on don't deform the pockets and the line and things.

lovecraft is correct. the outer pockets on suits and sports jackets aren't intended for use. in fact you should usually just keep them stitched aside from the upper chest pocket in case you like to wear a fashionable hankerchief to match your tie. they aren't meant for use because after extended use and weight constantly being in the pockets it can distort the jacket

Its light stitching to make the jacket sit better in the shop - so it will look sharp on you when you try it on. If you work in a shop you know just how long things can lie about in stock and then on the rail, if it has pockets that are unstitched and lies on a rack for say about 3 weeks, people try it on and they just end up sagging.

First thing I do when i try on jeans is put my hands in my pockets (as do a lot of people). Just another way they try to make the jacket look sharper.

But lovecraft is right, the lower pockets aren't intended for use.

I only tend to leave a packet of tissues in them because there isn't enough room in my inner pockets.

Do you know I have a constant problem with pockets. I have a PDA Phone which is a brick, a packet of cigarettes, pain killers, a zippo and my wallet. Never ever do i have enough space. Infact i bought a pair of jeans with double front pockets just so I could fit everything in!