Richard,
I'm sure you don't need to look much further than Hollywood.
These pirate shirts give the costume dept. a chance to show off a "manly" chest and create a v shape that matches the idealized v shape of the leading man's torso (think Kirk Douglas' physique as a young actor). They are flattering to actors that may not have that idealized v shape and billowy can hide a bit of a paunch if your leading man is getting older. They also flow dramatically in the wind and in motion and allow freedom of motion in a fight sequence.
And....
They are actually pretty comfortable when exerting yourself (air flow).
And... (if we can step off our sartorial / historical high horses for a moment) ...
They look cool! Think of Wesley as the Dread Pirate Roberts in Princess Bride...Wesley looks cool 
They aren't historic, lots of people at the Renaissance Faire, Highland games, and Scottish Country Dancers wear them today.
They aren't bad, they are just costume-like.
As long as no one tries to fob them off as historic, I think people should have the opportunity to let loose their inner Hollywood Swashbuckler 
"Now out swords and to work withal!"
Cheers
Jamie
Last edited by Panache; 25th May 23 at 06:53 AM.
-See it there, a white plume
Over the battle - A diamond in the ash
Of the ultimate combustion-My panache
Edmond Rostand
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