The 1950s marked a significant shift in men’s fashion, influenced by post-war optimism, the rise of youth culture, and Hollywood glamour. From the rebellious greaser to the clean-cut collegiate look, this era introduced iconic styles that continue to inspire today. Let’s delve into the key elements of 1950s men’s fashion.
Hats: A Resurgence of Style
The 1950s saw a revival of hat-wearing, with fedoras remaining popular alongside boaters, Panama hats, and more streamlined flat caps. A key development was the introduction of color, with hats available in a wider range of hues than ever before. Hatbands also became more decorative, featuring feathers and intricate pleats.
Hairstyles: The Era of Pomade
Hair styling was crucial in the ’50s. Pompadours, jelly rolls (or duck’s arses), and slicked-back styles were popular choices, often achieved with the help of pomade. While most men were clean-shaven, James Dean’s stubble introduced a more rugged look.
Eyewear: Bold Frames and Sunglasses
Sunglasses became a symbol of style and affluence, thanks to Hollywood stars. Thick-rimmed plastic frames and browline glasses were fashionable eyewear choices, available in various colors, from black to tortoiseshell.
Suits: From Sack Suits to Continental Style
Early 1950s suits were often American sack suits – loose-fitting, single-breasted with minimal shoulder padding. Later in the decade, the more tailored Continental or Roman style emerged, featuring a narrower silhouette, darts, and side vents. Gray was the dominant suit color, reflecting a more conservative trend.
Casual Wear: The Rise of the T-Shirt and Leisure Jackets
The 1950s witnessed the explosion of casual clothing. Marlon Brando’s iconic T-shirt in “A Streetcar Named Desire” revolutionized menswear. Hawaiian shirts, colorful patterned shirts, and corduroy were also popular. Knitwear, such as cardigans and jumpers, became go-to choices for leisure. Sport coats, often featuring patch pockets and bolder colors, provided a more relaxed alternative to suit jackets.
Youth Culture: Greasers, Jocks, and Teddy Boys
Rebellious youth subcultures heavily influenced 1950s men’s fashion. Greasers embraced leather jackets, jeans, and T-shirts, while jocks sported varsity jackets. In Britain, Teddy Boys favored Edwardian-inspired styles with drape jackets, velvet trim, and brothel creeper shoes.
Trousers and Shorts: Wider Legs and Pleats
Trousers were generally wide-legged with pleats, although flat-front styles started to appear. Cuffs were common. Shorts, often pleated and patterned, were worn with knee-high socks in Bermuda style.
Shoes: From Oxfords to Winklepickers
Classic Oxford and brogue shoes remained popular, along with saddle shoes and white bucks. The quirky winklepicker, with its sharply pointed toe, was a short-lived but memorable footwear trend. Chukka boots, popularized in this era, continue to be a style staple today.
Accessories: Belts, Scarves, and Pocket Squares
Woven leather belts with unique buckles were popular accessories. Scarves (or mufflers) were commonly worn, and leather gloves were essential in winter. Socks and pocket squares embraced bolder colors and patterns, reflecting the decade’s emphasis on individuality.
Conclusion
The 1950s were a transformative period for men’s fashion, embracing color, casualness, and youthful rebellion. The decade’s iconic styles continue to resonate today, showcasing the enduring influence of this era’s sartorial innovations.
