The 1920s was a time of change, innovation, and, most importantly, a revolution in men’s fashion. Known as the Roaring Twenties, this decade brought not only a cultural shift but also a dramatic evolution in the way men dressed. Post-WWI, traditional menswear norms were left behind, making room for more relaxed, tailored, and modern styles. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of 1920s men’s fashion, uncovering the most iconic trends, pieces, and influences that continue to inspire modern fashion today.
The Dapper Man: Tailoring and Suits
When it comes to 1920s men’s fashion, suits were the cornerstone of a gentleman’s wardrobe. The classic three-piece suit, consisting of trousers, a vest, and a jacket, was an essential part of daily attire, even for casual occasions. The emphasis was on clean lines, sharp tailoring, and perfect proportions. Unlike the boxy, looser fits seen in earlier decades, suits of the 1920s were far more fitted.
Key Features of the 1920s Men’s Suit:
- High-waisted trousers: These were typically worn with suspenders to keep them snug and perfectly tailored.
- Narrow jackets: Suits of this era had more fitted shoulders, and jackets often featured peaked lapels to add a touch of sophistication.
- Cuffed pants: Trousers were finished with cuffs and were cut narrower toward the ankle, reflecting the trend towards a more streamlined silhouette.
Transitional moments like post-WWI influenced the suit styles of this time. Men were moving away from the military-inspired styles of the 1910s, opting for a sleeker, more refined look.
The Casual Shift: Daywear vs. Eveningwear
While suits were an everyday staple, the 1920s brought about a new wave of casual daywear. Men’s fashion became more relaxed during daylight hours, although the distinction between casual and formal remained strict.
Casual Daywear:
- Plus fours: These were a form of breeches that extended 4 inches below the knee and were usually paired with argyle socks. Perfect for casual outings or even golf, plus fours became the ultimate symbol of upper-class leisure.
- Knickerbockers: Another popular alternative to trousers, knickerbockers were worn for sporting activities and became part of mainstream casual fashion.
- Sweaters and knit vests: These were layered under suit jackets or worn on their own, giving men the freedom to adopt a slightly more relaxed look.
Eveningwear:
- Tuxedos and dinner jackets: When it came to evening attire, men reverted to the classic black-and-white combination. Tuxedos, with satin-faced lapels and a matching bow tie, were the go-to for formal events.
- White tie events: For ultra-formal occasions, a tailcoat with a crisp white bow tie and starched shirt was the epitome of 1920s eveningwear.
Accessories: Finishing Touches
No outfit from the 1920s was complete without the perfect set of accessories. Accessories played a crucial role in defining a man’s status and style, and in many ways, they were just as important as the suit itself.
- Hats: The trilby, fedora, and boater hats were incredibly popular during the Roaring Twenties. A man’s choice of hat was not just about fashion; it was a statement of sophistication.
- Pocket squares: No suit was complete without a neatly folded pocket square peeking out of the breast pocket.
- Watches and cufflinks: Wristwatches were becoming more common, replacing pocket watches as the timepiece of choice for men. Gold and silver cufflinks added a refined touch to any formal outfit.
Footwear: Stepping Out in Style
When discussing 1920s men’s fashion, shoes cannot be overlooked. The decade saw an evolution in footwear, with more emphasis placed on both functionality and style.
- Oxfords: This classic shoe style became immensely popular. Oxfords were typically crafted from high-quality leather, often with detailed stitching and a polished finish, making them perfect for formal occasions.
- Brogues: Brogues were another fashionable choice, with their distinctive perforations adding a hint of flair to any outfit. They were versatile and could be worn for both casual and formal occasions.
- Two-tone shoes: Also known as spectator shoes, these became the hallmark of 1920s footwear fashion. With their contrasting colors, often in black and white or brown and white, two-tone shoes added an eye-catching element to an ensemble.
The Influence of the Jazz Age
It would be impossible to discuss 1920s men’s fashion without mentioning the influence of the Jazz Age. The rise of jazz music, speakeasies, and the flapper culture had a significant impact on the way men dressed, particularly when it came to eveningwear.
As jazz took over the nightlife scene, men’s evening fashion evolved to reflect the excitement and energy of the era. While tuxedos were still the norm, jazz-inspired elements such as vibrant bow ties, silk scarves, and even patterned vests found their way into men’s wardrobes.
The Jazz Age also introduced more daring elements into men’s fashion, with looser cuts and bolder fabrics appearing in eveningwear. Velvet jackets, satin lapels, and brighter colors broke the mold of traditional black-and-white formal attire, giving men more freedom to express themselves through fashion.
Hairstyles of the 1920s
Beyond the clothes, 1920s men’s fashion also extended to grooming and hairstyles. The neat and polished look dominated, with slicked-back hairstyles becoming all the rage. Pomade was a must-have product to achieve that shiny, structured look. Men often styled their hair with a side part, and the short back and sides cut was widely popular.
Barbershops became social hubs where men could not only get their hair cut but also indulge in grooming services like straight razor shaves. It was all about looking sharp and put-together, no matter the occasion.
FAQs About 1920s Men’s Fashion
- What were some of the most iconic suit styles in the 1920s?
The classic three-piece suit, featuring high-waisted trousers, a vest, and a jacket with narrow shoulders and peaked lapels, was a defining look of the 1920s. - Did men in the 1920s wear casual clothing?
Yes, casual wear became more common in the 1920s, especially for daytime activities. Plus fours, knickerbockers, and knit vests were popular choices for casual occasions. - How did the Jazz Age influence men’s fashion?
The Jazz Age introduced bolder colors, looser cuts, and vibrant accessories into men’s fashion, particularly in eveningwear. It allowed for more personal expression in clothing choices. - What kind of shoes did men wear in the 1920s?
Oxfords, brogues, and two-tone spectator shoes were popular footwear choices in the 1920s, with a strong emphasis on both style and comfort. - How did men style their hair in the 1920s?
Men typically wore their hair slicked back with pomade for a polished, shiny finish. The short back and sides cut, often with a side part, was the go-to hairstyle of the decade.
Conclusion
The 1920s was a transformative era for men’s fashion. From sharp suits to the rise of casual wear, the Roaring Twenties introduced a sense of style and sophistication that still resonates today. The sleek tailoring, attention to detail, and dapper accessories of the era reflect a time when looking your best was always in vogue. Whether you’re a fan of the timeless three-piece suit or the more relaxed casual trends, 1920s men’s fashion offers endless inspiration for the modern gentleman.
Authoritative Links (Plain URLs)
- www.vintagedancer.com/1920s/mens-fashion-1920s
- www.historyextra.com/period/1920s-men-fashion
- www.gentlemansgazette.com/1920s-mens-fashion