The 1950s marked a significant shift in men’s fashion, embracing a newfound casualness and a vibrant use of color. Post-World War II optimism and economic prosperity fueled a desire for self-expression and individuality, reflected in the diverse styles of the decade. From the rebellious greaser to the preppy jock, 1950s Fashion Male encompassed a range of looks that continue to inspire contemporary menswear.
Hats enjoyed a resurgence in popularity, with fedoras, boaters, Panama hats, and flat caps making stylish statements. Color became a defining feature, with hats available in a wide array of hues, complemented by decorative hatbands.
Hairstyles were voluminous and meticulously styled with pomade, featuring iconic looks like the pompadour, the jelly roll, and the slick-back. While clean-shaven faces were the norm, James Dean’s signature stubble introduced a more rugged appeal.
Sunglasses became synonymous with Hollywood glamour and masculine cool, while thick-rimmed plastic frames and browline glasses defined eyewear trends. Browline glasses were available in various colors, from classic black to bolder shades like orange.
Waistcoats, while no longer essential for business suits, became a fashion statement in their own right. Contrasting vests in different colors and materials, such as knit or wool doeskin, added a touch of individuality to ensembles.
Shirt collars were predominantly attached, with the rounded club collar experiencing a revival. Button-down collars, tabs, and collar clips were common features. Bold shirt colors gradually gave way to more subdued pastels as the decade progressed.
Neckties showcased a wide array of patterns and colors, from abstract designs to geometric motifs. Materials ranged from silk and wool to the then-novel polyester. Bow ties, initially wide, slimmed down by mid-decade, embracing a longer, more streamlined silhouette. Pre-tied neckwear, while convenient, was associated with a more youthful, schoolboyish look.
Suits were initially characterized by the American sack suit’s loose fit and straight lines. However, the late 1950s witnessed the rise of the continental or Roman-style suit, featuring a narrower silhouette, darts, and side vents.
Casual clothing gained significant traction, with Marlon Brando’s iconic T-shirt in “A Streetcar Named Desire” igniting a trend that endures to this day. Hawaiian shirts, colorful patterned shirts, and corduroy were popular casual choices. The gaucho shirt, a pullover style with an open collar, was a distinctive casual garment.
Trousers were generally wide-legged, often featuring pleats and cuffs. Shorts, frequently pleated and patterned, were worn with over-the-calf socks in the Bermuda style. Shoes included classic Oxfords, brogues, saddle shoes, and the short-lived winklepickers. Elvis Presley’s blue suede shoes became a symbol of the era’s rebellious spirit.
Overcoats were typically wide and baggy, crafted from heavy fabrics in subdued colors like brown, gray, and black. Double-breasted styles with patch pockets were particularly popular. Accessories such as woven leather belts with unique buckles, colorful scarves, gloves, socks, and pocket squares allowed for personal expression.
