The 1920s, a period also known as the Roaring Twenties and the Jazz Age, marked a significant shift in men’s fashion. This era saw a move away from the rigid formality of previous decades and embraced a more relaxed yet sophisticated style. This guide explores the key elements of 20s fashion for men, highlighting the evolution of suits, hats, shoes, and accessories.
The First World War significantly impacted 20s fashion. Soldiers returning from the front lines embraced a cleaner-shaven look, influenced by the necessity of gas masks. Mustaches remained popular, but full beards were less common. The war also ushered in a sense of freedom and celebration, reflected in the bold colors and patterns of the era’s clothing.
Cream-colored flannel trousers, a popular menswear choice in the 1920s.
Suits in the 1920s were characterized by a slimmer, more fitted silhouette than those of previous eras. Jackets were cut closer to the body, accentuating the natural waistline. Wool was the most common fabric, often heavier and coarser than modern wool. Pinstripes, subtle patterns, and tweed were favored choices. The “jazz suit,” with its high waist and slim fit, epitomized the era’s youthful exuberance.
A selection of 1920s men’s suits showcasing the popular styles and cuts of the era.
Hats were an essential part of 20s men’s fashion. The fedora, with its soft, snap brim, was the most popular choice, offering a casual yet stylish look. Flat caps, particularly the pancake-like one-piece style, were also widely worn. For summer, the straw boater hat provided a breezy and relaxed option. Newsboy caps, recognized by their full, rounded shape, were common among working-class men.
An infographic detailing the features of a typical 1920s fedora.
Footwear in the 1920s reflected the improving quality of city streets. Oxfords and brogues, often featuring two-tone designs, were popular choices. Dress shoes were the norm, although Converse All-Stars, initially designed for basketball, emerged during this decade. Shoes generally had higher heels and rounder toes compared to contemporary styles.
An illustration of 1920s two-tone shoes, a fashionable footwear option during the era.
Accessories played a key role in completing the 20s men’s look. Canes, often elaborately decorated, were fashionable items. Pocket squares, made increasingly affordable by mass production, added a touch of color and personality. Wristwatches gained popularity, gradually replacing pocket watches as waistcoats became less common. Celluloid eyeglasses, imitating tortoiseshell or horn, offered stylish eyewear options. Ties, often bolder and more colorful, were easier to tie due to the softer collars of the era’s shirts.
Various tie styles from the 1920s, generally shorter in length compared to modern ties.
Formal wear in the 1920s continued to evolve. Morning wear, though declining in popularity, saw subtle changes in style. Black tie became more prevalent than white tie for evening events. Often, black tie ensembles incorporated elements traditionally associated with white tie, such as stiff evening shirts and Marcella waistcoats.
A 1920s black tie ensemble featuring a tuxedo with sleeve cuffs and a stiff wing collar shirt.
Casual wear in the 1920s saw the rise of knitwear, sportswear, and clothing influenced by the automobile. Sweaters, particularly V-neck pullovers and cardigans, became popular. Sports like golf and tennis inspired comfortable yet stylish outfits. Driving caps, goggles, and duster coats reflected the growing popularity of cars. Bathing suits and terry cloth robes emerged as beachwear essentials.
Men’s casual attire suitable for driving, reflecting the influence of automobiles on 1920s fashion.
The 1920s represented a pivotal moment in men’s fashion, laying the groundwork for many styles that continue to influence menswear today. The era’s emphasis on comfort, individuality, and a touch of flair resonates even now. Fashion icons like Rudolph Valentino and Douglas Fairbanks Jr. helped to popularize the era’s trends, solidifying the Roaring Twenties as a defining period in men’s style history.
Douglas Fairbanks Jr., a prominent men’s fashion icon of the 1920s, known for his sophisticated style.
