The 1950s marked a significant shift in men’s fashion, embracing color, casualwear, and individuality. Post-World War II optimism and economic prosperity fueled a desire for self-expression through clothing. This era witnessed the rise of distinct styles, influenced by Hollywood icons and rebellious youth subcultures.
Hats experienced a resurgence, with fedoras, boaters, Panama hats, and flat caps in various colors and adorned with unique hatbands. Hairstyles were prominent, featuring pompadours, jelly rolls, and slicked-back looks achieved using pomade. Facial hair was generally clean-shaven, though James Dean popularized stubble.
Sunglasses became a symbol of style and wealth, with thick-rimmed glasses and browline styles in various colors gaining popularity. Waistcoats, though less essential, were often worn in contrasting colors and materials. Shirts transitioned to attached collars, with spearpoint and club collars prevalent. Bold colors initially dominated before giving way to pastel shades and quieter patterns.
Neckties showcased a wide array of colors, patterns, and materials, including abstract designs and bold geometrics. Bow ties evolved from wider styles to slimmer, longer shapes with expanded color options. Pre-tied neckwear emerged as a convenient, though less stylish, alternative.
Suits retained a conservative silhouette early in the decade, with single-breasted, sack-style jackets in gray, black, brown, and navy. Later, the continental or Roman-style suit, with its narrower cut, darts, and side vents, gained prominence. Mohair fabric was favored for its wrinkle-resistant properties and subtle sheen.
Casual clothing flourished, with Marlon Brando’s iconic T-shirt in “A Streetcar Named Desire” sparking a trend. Hawaiian shirts, colorful patterned shirts, and corduroy gained popularity. The gaucho shirt, a pullover style with an open collar, became a casual staple.
Youth culture heavily influenced 50s fashion for men. Jocks sported varsity jackets with school and sports emblems. Greasers embraced leather jackets, white T-shirts, jeans, and biker boots, epitomized by James Dean and Marlon Brando. Teddy Boys in Britain adopted Edwardian-inspired styles with drape jackets, velvet trim, and brothel creeper shoes.
Trousers remained wide-legged, often featuring pleats and cuffs. Shorts, frequently pleated and patterned, were worn with over-the-calf socks in Bermuda style. Shoes included Oxfords, brogues, saddle shoes, and the short-lived winklepickers. Chukka boots and blue suede shoes, popularized by Elvis, emerged as enduring styles.
Overcoats were typically single or double-breasted, cut wide and long from heavy fabrics in brown, gray, or black. Accessories included woven leather belts with unique buckles, colorful scarves, leather gloves, and bold patterned socks and pocket squares. The 1950s menswear reflected a vibrant era of change and self-expression.
