The 1920s was a time of great social and cultural change, and this was reflected in men’s fashion. The stiff, formal suits of the previous decades gave way to more relaxed and stylish looks. Men began to wear lighter colors, shorter jackets, and wider lapels. They also started to experiment with new patterns and fabrics.
One of the most iconic looks of the 1920s was the “Gatsby suit.” This was a three-piece suit that was typically made of a light-colored fabric, such as linen or seersucker. The jacket had a short, unpadded waistcoat and wide lapels. The pants were tapered and had a high waist. This look was popularized by the character Jay Gatsby in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby.
Another popular trend in 1920s men’s fashion was the “zoot suit.” This was a very flamboyant look that was characterized by its exaggerated proportions. The jacket was long and loose, with wide lapels and padded shoulders. The pants were very wide and baggy, and they were often pegged at the ankles. Zoot suits were often made of brightly colored fabrics, such as purple or green.
1. The Jazz Age Influence:
The 1920s was a decade marked by the rise of jazz music and the proliferation of speakeasies and nightclubs. This cultural backdrop had a profound influence on men’s fashion during the era. The spirit of rebellion, liberation, and celebration was reflected in the clothing of the time. The 1920s man embraced a sense of freedom that was mirrored in his attire, moving away from the formal and restrictive clothing of the previous decades.
2. The Suit Silhouette:
The suit remained the cornerstone of men’s fashion in the Gatsby era, but it underwent a significant transformation. The traditional, bulky Edwardian suits were replaced by a more relaxed and streamlined silhouette. Suits featured shorter jackets, narrower lapels, and a higher waistline. The goal was to create a youthful, athletic, and dynamic appearance that aligned with the exuberance of the times.
3. The Materials and Colors:
Wool was the predominant fabric for suits, but it was often lighter and more breathable than in previous decades. Fabrics like tweed and herringbone gained popularity, offering texture and depth to the garments. Colors became bolder and more varied. While classic gray, brown, and navy remained popular, men were not afraid to experiment with pastels, bold stripes, and even checks, showcasing their newfound sartorial confidence.1920s The Materials and Colors
4. The Dress Shirt:
The dress shirt also underwent significant changes. Collars became softer and attached, often featuring rounded or club collars, which were more comfortable and in line with the casual spirit of the era. White was still a prevalent color for dress shirts, but more adventurous men might opt for patterned or striped options.
5. The Accessorizing:
Accessories played a vital role in completing the 1920s look. The tie, usually made of silk, became wider and bolder, often featuring vibrant patterns and colors. The pocket square gained popularity, adding a touch of elegance to the ensemble. Perhaps one of the most iconic accessories of the era was the bowtie, which was frequently worn with tuxedos during evening events.
6. The Outerwear:
Overcoats and outerwear in the Gatsby era were equally stylish. The raccoon fur coat, popularized by Hollywood actors of the time, became a symbol of luxury and extravagance. Trench coats, dusters, and pea coats were also favored choices for staying warm while maintaining a fashionable appearance.
7. The Footwear:
Footwear saw the introduction of two notable styles: the Oxford and the Brogue. Oxfords were sleek, low-cut shoes with closed lacing, suitable for formal occasions. Brogues, on the other hand, featured decorative perforations and were favored for more casual or semi-formal settings. Both styles exuded sophistication and class.
8. The Hat:
No 1920s outfit was complete without a hat. The fedora, with its distinctive creased crown and pinched front, became synonymous with the era’s fashion. It was the perfect accessory to top off a stylish ensemble and add an air of mystery.
9. The Gatsby Influence:
“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, published in 1925, had a profound impact on men’s fashion during the era. The novel, set in the extravagant world of Jay Gatsby, showcased the opulence and style of the time. Gatsby himself was a fashion icon, epitomizing the elegance and grandeur of the 1920s man. His impeccable taste in clothing, extravagant parties, and distinctive style left an indelible mark on the fashion of the era.
10. The Legacy:
The 1920s men’s fashion of the Gatsby era left a lasting legacy that continues to influence modern style. The embrace of comfort, the focus on personal expression, and the willingness to experiment with colors and patterns are all aspects of 1920s fashion that resonate with contemporary fashion enthusiasts. Designers today often draw inspiration from the Gatsby era, incorporating elements of the Jazz Age into their collections, ensuring that the iconic style of the 1920s lives on.
Here are some additional details about the key elements of 1920s men’s fashion:
- Suits: Suits were the most formal and important item in a man’s wardrobe in the 1920s. They were typically made of wool or tweed, and they were often in light colors, such as gray, blue, or tan. The jacket was typically single-breasted with 3-4 buttons, and it had a soft shoulder and a natural waistline. The pants were tapered and had a high waist.
- Shirts: Shirts were typically made of white linen or cotton, and they were often styled with a stiff collar and a button-down front.
- Ties: Ties were a popular accessory in the 1920s, and they came in a variety of colors and patterns. The most popular style was the bow tie, which was often made of silk or satin.
- Hats: Hats were an essential part of men’s fashion in the 1920s, and they were worn for both formal and informal occasions. The most popular styles included the fedora, the bowler hat, and the porkpie hat.
- Shoes: Shoes were typically made of leather, and they were often in black or brown. The most popular styles included the Oxfords, the brogues, and the loafers.
In addition to suits, men in the 1920s also wore a variety of other clothing items, such as sweaters, cardigans, and sports jackets. They also wore a variety of accessories, such as hats, ties, and pocket squares.
The 1920s was a time of great creativity and experimentation in men’s fashion. Men were free to express their individuality through their clothing, and they did so with great enthusiasm. The result was a variety of stylish and iconic looks that continue to be popular today.
The 1920s was a time of great style and sophistication, and men’s fashion was no exception. The iconic looks of the Gatsby era continue to be popular today, and they can be easily recreated with a few key pieces. So if you’re looking to add a touch of the Roaring Twenties to your wardrobe, be sure to check out some of the classic styles from this era.
What were the fashion trends for men in the 1920s?
Fashion trends for men in the 1920s underwent a significant transformation, reflecting the cultural shifts and spirit of the era. Here are some key fashion trends for men during the 1920s:
1. The Slim-Fit Suit:
- The iconic 1920s suit featured a slim and streamlined silhouette.
- Jackets were shorter in length and had narrow lapels.
- Trousers had a higher waistline and a straight, loose-fitting leg.
- Suits were often made from lightweight wool or tweed, reflecting a more relaxed and youthful look compared to the formal Edwardian styles of the previous decade.
2. Two-Piece Suits:
- Two-piece suits became more popular as men embraced simplicity and comfort.
- Waistcoats (vests) were still worn but were no longer an essential part of everyday attire.
3. Bold Patterns and Colors:
- Men began experimenting with bolder colors and patterns in their clothing.
- Pastels, plaids, checks, and stripes became fashionable choices for suits, ties, and dress shirts.
- Brightly colored suits were donned for special occasions and events.
4. Collarless and Round Collar Shirts:
- Dress shirts often featured rounded or club collars that were softer and more comfortable.
- Collar pins or clips were used to keep the collars in place, adding a stylish touch.
5. Accessories:
- Neckties grew wider and shorter, featuring vibrant colors and patterns.
- Bowties, both self-tied and pre-tied, gained popularity, especially for eveningwear.
- Pocket squares were a common accessory, adding flair to suit jackets.
- Hats were essential, with the fedora being the most iconic style.
6. Outerwear:
- Overcoats, such as the Chesterfield coat, were tailored and refined.
- Trench coats were introduced and became a staple for rainy weather.
- The raccoon fur coat, popularized by Hollywood stars, represented luxury and extravagance.
7. Footwear:
- Oxford shoes, characterized by closed lacing and a sleek design, were worn for formal occasions.
- Brogues, featuring decorative perforations, were favored for more casual or semi-formal wear.
- Two-tone shoes with contrasting colors gained popularity.
8. Hats:
- The fedora hat, with its pinched front and creased crown, became an iconic accessory.
- Other hat styles included the Homburg, the bowler, and the straw boater.
9. Casualwear:
- For casual settings, men embraced knitted sweaters, cardigans, and pullovers.
- High-waisted, wide-legged trousers were worn for leisure activities, such as golf.
- Bathing costumes featured one-piece designs with tank tops.
10. Influence of “The Great Gatsby”:
- Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby,” published in 1925, had a profound impact on men’s fashion, popularizing the elegant and extravagant style of Jay Gatsby.
- Gatsby’s impeccable taste in clothing, his extravagant parties, and his distinctive style left an enduring mark on 1920s fashion.