10 English Idioms with Clothes: What They Mean and How to Use Them

Idioms can be tricky for ESL (English as a Second Language) learners because their meanings aren't always obvious. Today, we'll explore seven idioms related to clothes. These idioms are commonly used in everyday conversations, so understanding them will enhance your fluency and comprehension. Let's get started.

1. To Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve

Meaning: To openly show your emotions or feelings.

Example: Maria wears her heart on her sleeve; you can always tell when she's happy or sad.

Usage: This idiom is often used to describe people who are very expressive about their emotions. For instance, if someone is visibly upset after watching a sad movie, you might say, "She really wears her heart on her sleeve."

2. To Wear the Trousers

Meaning: To be the person in a relationship who makes the decisions and has the most control.

Example: In their household, it's clear that Jane wears the trousers.

Usage: This idiom is often used humorously to describe a relationship dynamic where one person is more dominant or assertive. For example, "Even though they're both strong-willed, it's John who wears the trousers in their relationship."

3. At the Drop of a Hat

Meaning: To do something immediately, without hesitation.

Example: If you need help, just call Tom; he'll be there at the drop of a hat.

Usage: This idiom emphasises someone's readiness and willingness to act quickly. For example, "She can start a new project at the drop of a hat."

4. To Get Hot Under the Collar

Meaning: To become angry or agitated.

Example: When he heard about the unfair decision, he got hot under the collar.

Usage: This idiom is often used to describe someone who is visibly upset or irritated. For instance, "Don't mention that topic unless you want to see him get hot under the collar."

5. To Roll Up Your Sleeves

Meaning: To prepare to work hard or tackle a challenging task.

Example: The team rolled up their sleeves and worked late into the night to meet the deadline.

Usage: This idiom suggests readiness to engage in hard work. For example, "We need to roll up our sleeves if we want to finish this project on time."

6. Under Your Belt

Meaning: To have a particular achievement or experience.

Example: With three successful projects under his belt, he's ready for a promotion.

Usage: This idiom is often used to highlight accomplishments or experiences that contribute to someone's qualifications. For instance, "She has several years of teaching experience under her belt."

7. To Fill Someone’s Shoes

Meaning: To take over someone's role or responsibilities and perform them as well as they did.

Example: After the CEO retired, it was tough for anyone to fill his shoes.

Usage: This idiom highlights the challenge of taking over from someone who was highly competent. For example, "It's going to be hard to fill her shoes after she leaves the company."

8. To Have an Ace Up Your Sleeve

Meaning: To have a secret advantage or resource.

Example: He always has an ace up his sleeve during negotiations.

Usage: This idiom suggests someone has a hidden strategy or resource they can use to their advantage.

9. Keep It Under Your Hat

Meaning: To keep something secret or confidential.

Example: They asked me to keep the news under my hat until the official announcement.

Usage: This idiom is used when you want someone to keep information private.

10. To Tighten Your Belt

Meaning: To reduce expenses due to financial difficulties.

Example: After the budget cuts, everyone had to tighten their belts.

Usage: This idiom is often used when discussing financial restraint or austerity measures.