Fashion was profoundly impacted by the cultural and economic transformations of the 1920s. This era’s men’s fashion is known for its blend of classicism and innovation, reflecting both opulence and evolving societal norms. In this article, we examine the key characteristics of 1920s men’s fashion and offer tips for adapting it to the modern age.
Fashion in the 1920s
There was a significant shift in society after World War I, marked by a rise in consumerism, new freedoms, and a departure from rigidity. This change was symbolized by fashion, which combined traditional elements with fresh, new trends inspired by sports and casual wear. Consequently, men’s fashion of the 1920s combined classic styles with a new, relaxed attitude.
Men’s Fashion in the 1920s: Key Aspects
Formal and business attire
Suits in neutral colors were considered a hallmark of social status and sophistication during the 1920s. Among the affluent, creams, nudes, and light grays were popular shades. During this era, suits were both elegant and understated.
Suits with pinstripes added a touch of refinement and polish. A modern take on a classic style is to opt for subtle pinstripes.
At the beginning of the decade, suits had a slimmer fit, which evolved into a looser, more relaxed style by the end of it. Double-breasted and single-breasted jackets with wide lapels and high waists were popular. Blues, grays, and ivory colored fabrics were available in patterns ranging from pinstripes to plaid.
Influence of athletics
Leisurewear became a key component of 1920s fashion with the rise of sports and celebrities. There was a boom in the popularity of v-neck sweaters and casual garments inspired by tennis and golf.
Add lighter cricket sweaters and cable-knit sweaters to your wardrobe. The athletic influences in these pieces are combined with modern fashion, making them ideal for layering and adapting to different seasons.
Accessories and hats
Straw fedoras, driving caps, and leather gloves were not only accessories, but symbols of social status as well. There was a distinct sense of sophistication and class about these elements.
Knit ties added texture to suits, while bow ties were staples for formal occasions. In addition to suspenders and sunglasses, round-shaped sunglasses enhanced the ensemble’s elegance.
Taking care of your hair and grooming
Shiny pomades were used to achieve slicked-back looks in the 1920s. In modern adaptations, long top sections can be achieved with undercuts, volume-enhancing products, and curly hair straightened as necessary.
Taking 1920s aesthetics and modernizing them
Focus on fitted silhouettes and vintage-inspired elements while using modern textures and fabrics to incorporate 1920s style into contemporary fashion. Opt for tailored fits and subtle nods to the past instead of outdated trends like oversized ‘oxford bags’.
The Great Gatsby’s influence
Baz Luhrmann’s 2013 film adaptation of The Great Gatsby influenced how we view 1920s fashion today with vintage and modern elements. A vintage-inspired fashion trend was set by Catherine Martin’s costume design, which blended historical accuracy with contemporary flair.
Context of Cultural Diversity
There was a surge of political, economic, and social change during the 1920s, or the Roaring Twenties. Consumerism, freedom, and new fashion trends characterized the era. During this period, nightclubs and speakeasies also played a role in shaping fashion.
Changing fashions
From the more formal and durable garments of the 1910s to the softer, more relaxed fits of the 1920s, fashion underwent a significant change. Leisure and sportswear were introduced during this period, influenced by sports figures.
As popularized by media such as Peaky Blinders, gangster culture brought three-piece suits and flat caps to the forefront of men’s fashion.
What Men Wore in the 1920s
Wearables
In the beginning, suits were slimmer, but by the end of the decade, they were looser and more colorful. It was common to wear high-waisted jackets with wide lapels and double-breasted designs.
Pinstripes, plaids, and herringbone patterns are common patterns. Colors range from blues and grays to browns and ivory.
Wearables
There was a trend for button-down shirts with rounded, detachable collars. Also popular were knitted pullovers and shirts with penny collars.
Wearing pants
Fit and Design: Pants had a higher waistline, usually fastened with belts or button suspenders. The late 1920s saw the introduction of Oxford bags, which had single pleats.
Gray, white, and khaki were some of the colors and patterns used.
Vests and waistcoats
Slim-fitting waistcoats had lower cuts and pointed tips. The patterns ranged from solid colors to geometric and colorful patterns.
Clothing
Types: Coats matched suit fits and were available in darker shades like navy blue. Warm weather options included wool and silk linings.
The shoes
There was a wide variety of styles, including Oxford shoes, wingtip shoes, and patent leather options, as well as some that incorporated reptile skin. Black, brown, and white were the colors used.
Auxiliary equipment
Tweed caps, fedoras, top hats, bowler hats, and fedoras were popular hat choices. An outfit would not be complete without a hat of some kind.
Wristwatches began to replace pocket watches as silk and linen pocket squares added flair.
Pince-nez glasses, round spectacles, and thicker frames were common, along with ties in stripes, plaids, and paisleys.
The misconceptions
Although the 1920s fashion styles were glamorously portrayed in media, such as The Great Gatsby, not everyone embraced them. Many occasions still required formal garments, and traditional outfits remained popular.
Trends in general
American menswear began to evolve into seasonal cycles during the 1920s due to the influence of European trends. A classic yet dynamic style of the 1920s can be achieved by incorporating fitted silhouettes, vintage-inspired elements, and modern textures.
The goal is to achieve the perfect balance between 1920s men’s fashion and contemporary style sensibilities by focusing on these aspects.