[novok]

I think the more accurate reason is women carry purses because of the lack of pockets, and since most women have purses, you don't need to put pockets in your clothing. It also used to be scandalous for women to wear pants vs a skirt or a dress, which doesn't lend itself to pockets.

And aesthetically, a pocket stuffed with things, especially in more form fitting clothing, doesn't look good.