In December 1933, the legendary Hollywood actress Marlene Dietrich boarded the SS Europa to travel from the United States to France. Dietrich was already famous not only for her acting, but also for her bold fashion choices. During the voyage she was seen wearing a white pantsuit — elegant, modern, and completely shocking for the time.
When news of her outfit reached Jean Chiappe, the Paris police chief, he was furious. Since November 17, 1800, an old French law had existed which technically made it illegal for women to dress like men — especially by wearing trousers. The law stated that any woman wanting to wear men’s clothing needed permission from the police. Later amendments allowed exceptions only when a woman was riding a horse or riding a bicycle.
Although this law had not been enforced for decades, it still officially existed. And Chiappe made it clear:
If Marlene Dietrich arrived in Paris wearing pants, she would be arrested.
It wasn’t a joke. It was a real threat.
But Dietrich didn’t care.
After landing in Cherbourg, she boarded a train to Paris — dressed even more boldly than before. She wore a tweed men’s suit, a necktie, an overcoat, and dark sunglasses. She knew the police were waiting to see what she would do.
When the train arrived at Gare Saint-Lazare, Dietrich stepped out confidently, a policeman lightly holding her arm as she walked. Reporters rushed forward, photographers snapped pictures, and crowds gathered to watch.
And despite the old law and the police chief’s warning…
Marlene Dietrich was not arrested.
Her calm defiance turned into a famous moment in fashion history — a moment captured in a photograph that still circulates today. Many later saw her actions as a statement for women’s freedom to dress however they wanted.
The old French law against women wearing trousers remained on the books — forgotten but technically still valid — until it was finally officially revoked on January 31, 2013 by the French Minister for Women’s Rights, Najat Vallaud-Belkacem.
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