1920s Mens Fashion: A Guide to the Roaring Twenties Style

Men’s fashion in the 1920s was a reflection of the cultural shift happening at the time. The decade saw the rise of jazz music, flappers, and the prohibition era, all of which had an impact on fashion. 1920s mens fashion, in particular, saw a shift towards more relaxed and comfortable clothing, as well as a move away from the restrictive and formal styles of the past.

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One of the most iconic pieces of men’s fashion from the 1920s was the suit. Suits were still seen as a symbol of status and sophistication, but they were now being designed with more relaxed fits and lighter fabrics. This allowed men to move more freely and comfortably, which was important for the new dance styles that were emerging.

Other key pieces of men’s fashion from the 1920s included hats, shoes, and jackets. Hats, such as the fedora and the newsboy cap, were popular accessories that added a touch of style to any outfit. Shoes were also important, with lace-up oxfords being the most popular style. Jackets, such as the leather bomber jacket and the trench coat, were seen as essential pieces of outerwear.

Key Takeaways

The 1920s saw a shift towards more relaxed and comfortable clothing for men.
Suits were still popular, but were now designed with lighter fabrics and more relaxed fits.
Hats, shoes, and jackets were important accessories that helped complete the look of a well-dressed man.

Overview of 1920s Mens Fashion

1920s men’s fashion was characterized by a shift towards more casual and comfortable clothing. The end of World War I brought about a new era of prosperity, and men’s fashion reflected this newfound sense of freedom and self-expression.

The essential part of a 1920s man’s wardrobe was his suit. For day, evening, work, or parties, a man always wore a suit. Suits were typically made of lightweight fabrics such as wool, linen, or silk, and were often single-breasted with narrow lapels. The trousers were high-waisted and often had pleats.

In addition to suits, men also wore more casual clothing such as sports jackets, sweaters, and cardigans. These were often made of tweed or wool and paired with trousers or knickers. For footwear, men wore leather lace-up shoes or loafers.

Hats were an essential accessory for men in the 1920s. Popular styles included the fedora, trilby, and flat cap. Men also wore gloves, scarves, and ties to complete their outfits.

Overall, 1920s men’s fashion was characterized by its attention to detail and emphasis on individuality. Men had more freedom to express themselves through their clothing, and this led to a wide variety of styles and trends. From casual workwear to formal evening wear, men’s fashion in the 1920s was both stylish and practical.

Suits and Fit

When it comes to 1920s mens fashion, suits were a staple. Men’s suits in the 1920s had a slimmer fit and simpler design at the start of the decade. By the end of the decade, they had become looser and more colorful. Many men still preferred the traditional tuxedo or three-piece suits for formal get-togethers and evening events.

Materials and Patterns

Suits in the 1920s were made of various materials, including tweed, wool, cotton, and flannel. Tweed was a popular choice for suits, as it was durable and warm. Wool was also a popular choice, especially for winter suits. Cotton and flannel were used for summer suits due to their lightweight and breathable properties.

When it comes to patterns, pinstripes were a popular choice for suits. Stripes were often thin and subtle, adding a touch of sophistication to the suit. Classic patterns, such as herringbone and check, were also popular.

Accessories

Accessories were an essential part of 1920s mens fashion. Suspenders were commonly worn with suits, as belts were not yet popular. The collar of the shirt was an important detail, and many men preferred the pointed collar for a more formal look.

Vests were also a popular accessory, adding an extra layer of warmth and style to the suit. Neckties were worn with suits, and men often opted for bold colors and patterns to add a pop of color to their outfit.

In terms of pants, oxford bags were a popular style. These pants were characterized by their wide legs, which tapered towards the ankle. Thick wool trousers were also popular, especially for winter suits.

Overall, 1920s mens fashion was characterized by classic sophistication and attention to detail. Suits were a staple of the era, and men took pride in their appearance, often accessorizing with suspenders, vests, and bold neckties.

Shirts and Sweaters

Collars and Neckties

In the 1920s, men’s shirts were typically made of cotton or linen and had a straight, boxy shape. The collars were usually detachable and could be changed to match the occasion. The most popular collar style was the club collar, which had a rounded edge and was worn with a necktie. Other popular collar styles included the pointed collar and the round collar, which had a more relaxed look.

Neckties were an essential accessory for men in the 1920s. They were typically made of silk and featured bold stripes or patterns. The most popular knot style was the four-in-hand knot, which was simple and easy to tie. Men also wore bow ties, which were smaller and more formal than neckties.

Sweater Styles

Sweaters were a popular choice for casual wear in the 1920s. They were typically made of wool or cotton and came in a variety of styles. The most popular sweater style was the pullover, which had a simple design and was easy to wear. Other popular styles included shawl collar sweaters, cardigan knit sweaters, and sweater vests.

Knitwear was also a popular choice for men’s fashion in the 1920s. Sweaters with bold stripes or patterns were particularly popular, as were sweaters with a Fair Isle design. These sweaters were often made of wool and were perfect for keeping warm on chilly days.

In conclusion, shirts and sweaters were an important part of men’s fashion in the 1920s. Collars and neckties added a touch of sophistication to formal wear, while sweaters provided a comfortable and stylish option for casual wear. The use of bold stripes and patterns in knitwear added a pop of color to men’s outfits.

1920s Mens Fashion Hats and Shoes

Hat Styles

In the 1920s, hats were a crucial part of men’s fashion. The style of the hat varied depending on the class of the wearer. Top hats and homburg hats were worn by the upper class, while bowler hats, trilby hats, and fedoras were popular among the middle class. Flat caps and newsboy caps were commonly worn by working-class men.

During the summer months, straw boater hats were a popular choice for both middle and upper-class men. Linen flat caps were also worn during this time. In colder months, felt hats and fedoras were more common. The Great Gatsby movie portrayed many hatless heads, but this was due to the difficulty of filming with hats rather than historical accuracy.

Shoe Styles

The 1920s saw a variety of shoe styles for men. The Oxford shoe became popular during the Great Gatsby era as a more comfortable alternative to other formal options. Wingtip shoes, patent leather shoes, two-tone sports shoes, and high-cut work boots were also popular choices.

Two-tone shoes, in particular, were a fashion statement in the 1920s. They featured contrasting colors on the toe and heel, and were often worn with a matching two-tone suit. White Nubuck shoes were also popular, especially in the summer months.

In the movie The Great Gatsby, the characters wore a variety of shoe styles, including wingtips and lace-up boots. It’s worth noting that shoes in the 1920s were often made of leather and required regular polishing to maintain their appearance.

Overall, hats and shoes were an essential part of men’s fashion in the 1920s. The style of the hat varied depending on the class of the wearer, while shoe styles ranged from formal to sporty.

Jackets and Coats

1920s Mens Fashion Materials and Colors

In the 1920s, jackets and coats were an essential part of men’s fashion. These garments were made from a variety of materials, including cotton and wool. Wool was a popular choice for winter coats, while cotton was used for lighter jackets during the warmer months.

When it came to colors, brown, grey, and navy blue were the most popular choices for men’s jackets and coats. These colors were favored by gangsters, Peaky Blinders, and Great Gatsby alike. Plaid and checks were also popular patterns for jackets and coats, adding some variety to the standard colors.

Styles

Jackets and coats in the 1920s came in a variety of styles. Double or single-breasted jackets with three to four buttons were common, and high lapels were a unique feature of this era. The jackets were often paired with vests, which were covered by the jacket when all the buttons were done up. This left only the collar and necktie visible.

Three-piece suits were also popular, consisting of a jacket, vest, and trousers. Pinstripes were a common pattern for these suits. Lace-up boots were the preferred footwear to complete the look.

The Peaky Blinders style was also popular, with long knee-length coats, wide lapels, broad shoulders, and a tightly fitted waist. These coats were often made from wool and came in rich dark colors like navy blue. This style was also seen in popular TV shows like Boardwalk Empire, which was set in the 1920s.

Overall, jackets and coats were an important part of men’s fashion in the 1920s. From gangsters to the Great Gatsby, these garments added style and sophistication to any outfit.

Casual Clothing and Workwear

During the 1920s, men’s fashion was evolving from the formal styles of the previous decade. Casual clothing and workwear became more popular as people sought comfort and practicality in their daily attire. This section will explore the different types of casual clothing and workwear that were popular during this time period.

1920s Mens Fashion Summer Clothing

Summer clothing during the 1920s was all about comfort and staying cool in the heat. Lightweight fabrics such as linen, cotton, and silk were popular choices. Men would wear loose-fitting shirts with open collars, paired with lightweight trousers or shorts. Straw hats were also a popular accessory to keep the sun out of their eyes.

Golf and Sportswear

Golf and sportswear became more popular during the 1920s. Men would wear knickers or plus fours, which were loose-fitting pants that ended just below the knee. These were paired with long socks and golf shoes. Polo shirts were also a popular choice for sportswear, as they were comfortable and allowed for ease of movement.

Lower Classes

For the lower classes, workwear was an essential part of their wardrobe. Men would wear sturdy pants made of denim or corduroy, with suspenders or belts to hold them up. Work shirts were usually made of cotton or wool and were designed to be durable and practical. Boots were the footwear of choice for many working-class men, as they provided protection and support for their feet.

In conclusion, casual clothing and workwear became more popular during the 1920s as people sought comfort and practicality in their daily attire. Summer clothing was all about staying cool in the heat, while golf and sportswear became more popular for outdoor activities. For the lower classes, workwear was an essential part of their wardrobe.

1920s Mens Fashion Formal Wear and Upper Class Fashion

Formal wear during the 1920s was a significant part of men’s fashion. It was a time when the upper class and middle class had specific dress codes for various occasions. Men’s formal wear was characterized by classic sophistication, thick wool, blues, and tapered silhouettes.

Tuxedos and Three-Piece Suits

Tuxedos were the most formal attire for men in the 1920s. They were usually black with a satin lapel and a black bow tie. The upper class preferred tuxedos with tails for formal occasions, while the middle class opted for the new style of dinner jackets. The dress shirt had a wingtip collar, and the vest was either white or black U-shape. The tuxedo pants had a satin stripe down the leg and were worn with formal shoes.

Three-piece suits were also popular during the 1920s. They were made of wool and featured a vest, jacket, and pants. The vest was usually single-breasted, while the jacket had a single or double-breasted design. The pants were tapered and had cuffs at the bottom. The suit was paired with a necktie or a bow tie.

1920s Mens Fashion Accessories

Accessories played a crucial role in completing the formal look during the 1920s. Men wore pocket squares, cufflinks, and tie bars to add a touch of elegance to their outfits. The upper class preferred top hats, while the middle class wore fedoras.

Vests were an essential accessory during the 1920s. They were worn to add a layer of formality to the outfit. Vests were either single or double-breasted and were made of wool. They were usually in the same color as the suit or tuxedo.

In conclusion, formal wear during the 1920s was a significant part of men’s fashion. The upper class and middle class had specific dress codes for various occasions. Tuxedos and three-piece suits were the most popular formal wear for men. Accessories such as vests, neckties, bow ties, and pocket squares completed the formal look.

1920s Mens Fashion Hairstyles and Grooming

During the 1920s, men’s grooming and hairstyles underwent a significant transformation. The clean-shaven look was in, and men preferred to have a small mustache or no facial hair at all. The hair was slicked back, shiny, and flat, with a center or side part. The medium-length hair was a popular choice among men, and hats were a common accessory.

To achieve the slicked-back look, men used hair oil or pomade. They combed their hair straight back, creating a sleek and polished appearance. The use of hair oil or pomade was essential to keep the hair in place and maintain the shine throughout the day.

In addition to the slicked-back style, men also wore other hairstyles during the 1920s. The following are some of the popular hairstyles of the era:

The side part: This style was similar to the slicked-back look but with a deep side part. The hair was combed to one side, and the other side was swept back.
The curly top: This style was popular among men with curly hair. The hair was kept short on the sides and back, and the top was left longer and curly.
The shingle cut: This style was characterized by short hair at the back and sides and longer hair on top. The hair was cut in layers, creating a shingled effect.
The undercut: This style was similar to the shingle cut, but the hair was shaved at the sides and back, creating a sharp contrast with the longer hair on top.

To complete the look, men also paid attention to their grooming. They used aftershave, cologne, and other grooming products to smell good. They also used razors to keep their facial

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 1920s were a decade of significant fashion changes for men. The end of World War I saw a shift towards more relaxed clothing styles, and the rise of consumerism led to an increase in fashion trends. The fashion industry became more accessible to the working class, and men’s clothing became more practical, comfortable, and stylish.

One of the most iconic fashion trends of the 1920s was the zoot suit, which featured high-waisted, baggy pants and a long coat. This style was popularized by African American and Latino men, and it became a symbol of rebellion and individuality.

Another significant trend was the adoption of sportswear as casual clothing. Men began to wear V-neck sweaters, knickers, and polo shirts inspired by athletes such as tennis and golf players. This trend was further popularized by brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren.

Accessories also played an essential role in men’s fashion during the 1920s. Men wore hats, including the bowler, straw boater, slouch, trilby, skimmer, and fedora. Pocket squares, tie pins, and cufflinks were also popular accessories that added a touch of elegance to men’s outfits.

Overall, the 1920s were a decade of significant changes in men’s fashion. The shift towards more relaxed and practical clothing styles, the adoption of sportswear as casual clothing, and the rise of accessories all contributed to the fashion trends of the era. These trends continue to influence men’s fashion today, making the 1920s a significant period in fashion history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did men wear in the 1920s?

Men’s fashion in the 1920s was characterized by a move towards more casual and comfortable clothing. Suits were still popular, but they were looser fitting and made from lighter fabrics. The classic three-piece suit was a staple of the decade, with a high-buttoning waistcoat and club collar shirt. Men also began to wear sportswear, such as knickers, polo shirts, and tennis sweaters.

How did the Great Gatsby influence men’s fashion?

The Great Gatsby, a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, was published in 1925 and had a significant impact on men’s fashion. The book’s depiction of the wealthy elite in the 1920s popularized the tuxedo, which became a staple of formal wear. The book also influenced the popularity of the double-breasted suit and the use of bold patterns and colors.

What accessories were popular in 1920s men’s fashion?

Accessories were an important part of men’s fashion in the 1920s. Men wore fedoras, newsboy caps, and straw boaters to complete their outfits. Neckties were also popular, with bold patterns and bright colors. Men also wore suspenders, cufflinks, and pocket watches to add a touch of sophistication to their look.

What fabrics were commonly used in 1920s men’s fashion?

In the 1920s, men’s fashion moved towards lighter fabrics such as linen, cotton, and wool. Tweed was also popular, particularly for sportswear. Silk was reserved for formal wear, such as tuxedos and evening gowns.

What were the popular hairstyles for men in the 1920s?

The most popular hairstyle for men in the 1920s was the slicked-back look, achieved with hair oil or pomade. Shorter hairstyles were also popular, with the side-parted style becoming a classic look. The undercut, where the hair on the sides and back of the head is shorter than the hair on top, also became popular towards the end of the decade.

What were the differences in fashion between upper and lower class men in the 1920s?

Upper class men in the 1920s had access to more expensive fabrics and tailored clothing. They wore more formal attire, such as tuxedos and top hats. Lower class men, on the other hand, wore more casual and affordable clothing, such as knickers and polo shirts. However, the move towards more casual and comfortable clothing in the 1920s meant that there was less of a distinction between upper and lower class fashion.

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