Introduction to 1920s Men’s Fashion
The 1920s were a transformative era in men’s fashion, defined by elegance, sophistication, and a touch of rebellion. This decade, also known as the Roaring Twenties, saw a shift from the rigid Victorian styles to more relaxed, stylish, and modern attire. Men embraced tailored suits, classic accessories, and well-groomed hairstyles, creating an iconic look that still influences today’s fashion.
Whether you’re fascinated by the Jazz Age, inspired by films like The Great Gatsby, or simply love vintage fashion, understanding 1920s men’s style can help you incorporate timeless elegance into your wardrobe.
Why 1920s Style Still Influences Modern Fashion
1920s fashion has left a lasting impact on the fashion industry. The focus on well-fitted suits, bold accessories, and structured layering continues to inspire designers today. Many modern formal wear trends, such as high-waisted trousers, double-breasted jackets, and Oxford shoes, have their roots in this stylish decade.
Now, let’s dive into the details of 1920s men’s fashion and discover how you can incorporate this vintage style into your wardrobe today.
The Defining Features of 1920s Men’s Fashion
The Influence of the Jazz Age and Prohibition Era
The 1920s was an era of cultural and social transformation. With the rise of jazz music, speakeasies, and the Prohibition era, men’s fashion evolved to reflect a new sense of freedom and sophistication. Sharp suits, stylish accessories, and a polished appearance became essential for gentlemen of the time.
How Hollywood and Celebrities Shaped the 1920s Style
Hollywood played a significant role in shaping 1920s fashion trends. Actors like Rudolph Valentino and Cary Grant popularized well-tailored suits, slicked-back hairstyles, and elegant evening wear. The influence of movie stars helped spread this classic style worldwide, making it a staple for men who wanted to look refined and fashionable.
Essential Clothing Pieces in 1920s Men’s Fashion
The Classic Three-Piece Suit
One of the most iconic elements of 1920s men’s fashion was the three-piece suit. This ensemble included a well-fitted jacket, high-waisted trousers, and a matching vest. Suits were typically made from wool, tweed, or linen, with colors ranging from classic black and gray to rich shades of brown and navy. Pinstripes and checkered patterns were also popular choices.
The suit was not just a fashion statement but a symbol of status and sophistication. Whether attending a formal event or a business meeting, men ensured their suits were perfectly tailored for a sharp, polished look.
The Dress Shirt – A Staple of Elegance
No 1920s outfit was complete without a crisp dress shirt. White was the most common color, though pastel shades and striped patterns also gained popularity.
Key Features of 1920s Dress Shirts:
- Stiff, detachable collars (club collars and wingtip collars were common)
- French cuffs with cufflinks
- Lightweight fabrics like cotton and silk for comfort and breathability
Trousers and High-Waisted Pants
High-waisted trousers were a defining feature of men’s fashion in the 1920s. Unlike modern low-rise pants, these trousers sat at the natural waist and often featured pleats for added comfort. They were typically paired with suspenders instead of belts, maintaining a sleek and sophisticated silhouette.
Outerwear – Coats, Overcoats, and Trench Coats
Men in the 1920s relied on well-tailored coats to complete their outfits. Wool overcoats were a must-have during colder months, while lightweight trench coats provided protection from rain.
Popular Outerwear Styles:
- Chesterfield Coat – A long, formal overcoat with a velvet collar
- Trench Coat – Made famous by soldiers in WWI, it became a stylish choice for men in the 1920s
- Pea Coat – A shorter, double-breasted coat commonly worn by working-class men
Accessories That Defined 1920s Men’s Fashion
Hats – The Signature Style Element
Hats were an essential part of a gentleman’s outfit in the 1920s. They were not just a fashion statement but also a sign of social status and etiquette. A man rarely stepped out without a hat, as it completed his overall look.
Popular Hat Styles of the 1920s:
- Fedora – A stylish and versatile hat with a wide brim and creased crown, worn by both wealthy businessmen and gangsters.
- Bowler Hat (Derby Hat) – A rounded, structured hat, commonly worn by middle-class and upper-class men.
- Flat Cap – A casual hat made of wool or tweed, worn mainly by working-class men but later adopted by wealthier gentlemen for leisure activities.
- Boater Hat – A straw hat with a flat crown and brim, often worn during summer events.
Each hat style served a different purpose and was chosen based on the occasion, outfit, and social status of the wearer.
Footwear – The Perfect Finish to an Outfit
Shoes in the 1920s were just as important as suits and accessories. The decade introduced elegant and well-crafted footwear that matched the sophistication of men’s fashion.
Popular Shoe Styles:
- Oxford Shoes – Classic lace-up shoes made from leather, suitable for both formal and business attire.
- Brogues – Distinguished by decorative perforations, these shoes added an element of style to casual and semi-formal outfits.
- Two-Tone Shoes – A trendy choice, featuring contrasting colors (usually black and white or brown and white), commonly worn by jazz musicians and fashionable men.
Leather shoes were polished to perfection, as a well-maintained pair was a sign of a well-dressed gentleman.
Ties, Bowties, and Pocket Squares
Men’s fashion in the 1920s embraced a variety of neckwear options, each adding a unique touch to an outfit.
Types of Neckwear:
- Neckties – Wider than modern ties, often featuring bold stripes and geometric patterns.
- Bowties – A staple for formal events, available in both self-tied and pre-tied versions.
- Ascots and Cravats – Worn by wealthier men for a more refined and aristocratic look.
Pocket squares were also a key accessory, adding a pop of color and personality to a suit. The art of folding a pocket square varied, from the classic straight fold to the more elaborate puff or peak folds.
Watches, Cufflinks, and Other Jewelry
Men in the 1920s wore minimal but elegant accessories. Jewelry was not overly flashy but rather subtle and refined.
- Wristwatches – The popularity of wristwatches increased during the 1920s, replacing pocket watches for their convenience and style.
- Cufflinks – Often made of silver, gold, or enamel, they added sophistication to dress shirts.
- Tie Bars and Collar Pins – Used to keep ties in place and maintain a neat look.
The influence of the Art Deco movement could be seen in jewelry designs, with geometric shapes and sleek finishes becoming the standard.
The Influence of 1920s Men’s Fashion on Today’s Style
1920s fashion continues to influence modern menswear, from the tailored suits seen in formal events to vintage-inspired casual wear. The revival of classic elements, such as suspenders, high-waisted trousers, and brogue shoes, has brought the elegance of the Roaring Twenties into contemporary fashion.
Modern Interpretations in Fashion and Media
Movies and TV shows like The Great Gatsby and Peaky Blinders have played a major role in reviving 1920s style. Fashion designers frequently draw inspiration from the decade, incorporating vintage patterns, fabrics, and silhouettes into modern collections.
Whether it’s a Gatsby-themed party or everyday vintage-inspired fashion, elements of 1920s menswear continue to thrive today.
How to Dress Like a 1920s Gentleman Today
Choosing the Right Outfit for Different Occasions
If you want to channel the elegance of the 1920s, you can adapt the style for different occasions:
- Formal Events: Opt for a three-piece suit with a crisp white shirt, a bowtie, and polished Oxford shoes. Add a pocket watch for a vintage touch.
- Casual Outings: Wear high-waisted trousers with a button-up shirt and suspenders. Pair with a flat cap for an authentic look.
- Themed Parties: For a true Gatsby-inspired look, go for a white or pastel-colored suit with two-tone shoes and a boater hat.
Grooming and Hairstyles of the 1920s
Hairstyles in the 1920s were just as important as clothing. Most men kept their hair short and well-groomed, often using pomade to achieve a sleek, polished look.
Popular 1920s Hairstyles:
- Slicked-Back Hair – Achieved with pomade or hair oil for a shiny finish.
- Side-Parted Hairstyle – A classic, clean-cut look that complemented formal attire.
- Short Back and Sides – Trimmed at the sides with longer hair on top, similar to modern undercuts.
Facial hair was minimal, as most men preferred a clean-shaven face or a well-groomed mustache.
FAQs
1. What were the most common fabrics used in 1920s men’s fashion?
Wool, tweed, linen, and cotton were the most popular fabrics. Wool was commonly used for suits, while linen and cotton were preferred for casual summer wear.
2. Were belts or suspenders more popular in the 1920s?
Suspenders were the preferred choice since high-waisted trousers did not have belt loops. Belts became more common in the later years of the decade.
3. What is the difference between a 1920s three-piece suit and a modern suit?
A 1920s three-piece suit featured high-waisted trousers, wide lapels, and a structured vest, while modern suits tend to have slimmer cuts and lower-rise trousers.
4. What kind of shoes did men wear in the 1920s?
Oxford shoes, brogues, and two-tone shoes were popular choices. Leather shoes were polished and well-maintained to complete the gentlemanly look.
5. Where can I buy 1920s-inspired men’s fashion today?
Many vintage clothing stores, online retailers, and bespoke tailors offer 1920s-inspired fashion. Websites like Etsy, eBay, and specialty menswear brands often carry high-quality reproductions.
