The 1950s marked a significant shift in men’s fashion, embracing a newfound sense of optimism and individuality after the somber years of World War II. This era saw the rise of casualwear, bold colors, and iconic styles influenced by Hollywood stars and rebellious youth culture. Let’s delve into the defining elements of 1950s fashion for men.
Hats: A Resurgence of Style
Contrary to declining trends, hat-wearing experienced a revival in the 1950s. Fedoras remained popular, but men also embraced boaters, Panama hats, and straw hats for summer. Flat caps offered a more casual option. A key development was the introduction of vibrant colors in hats, moving beyond traditional black, gray, and navy. Hatbands also became more decorative, featuring feathers and intricate pleats.
Hair and Facial Hair: The Rise of Pomade
Hairstyles in the 1950s were voluminous and intricately styled, often achieved with the help of pomade. Iconic styles included the pompadour, popularized by Elvis Presley, the jelly roll, favored by Teddy Boys, and the slicked-back look. While most men were clean-shaven, James Dean introduced a rebellious stubble look.
Eyewear: Bold Frames and Sunglasses
Sunglasses became a symbol of style and affluence, thanks to Hollywood stars. Thick-rimmed plastic frames, inspired by icons like Buddy Holly, were a popular choice for eyeglasses. Browline glasses continued to be fashionable, available in a variety of colors, from black and blue to tortoiseshell and clear.
Waistcoats: A Fashion Statement
Waistcoats were no longer essential for business suits, becoming more of a fashion choice. Young men often opted for contrasting waistcoats in different colors and materials, such as knit or wool doeskin. While some waistcoats featured lapels and varied pocket styles, the three-piece suit with a matching waistcoat lost popularity.
Shirts and Collars: Softer Styles and Casual Options
Attached collars were the norm, with detachable collars reserved for formal occasions. The club collar with rounded corners saw a revival. Softer collars were often buttoned down or secured with tabs or clips. Shirt colors transitioned from bold to pastel shades. The rise of casual wear introduced Hawaiian shirts, T-shirts, and the iconic look of Marlon Brando in “A Streetcar Named Desire.”
Neckties and Bow Ties: Colors and Patterns Galore
Neckties were a staple, showcasing a wide array of colors, patterns, and materials. Bold geometric designs, abstract motifs, and center medallions were popular choices. Bow ties evolved from wider styles to slimmer, longer shapes. Clip-on ties and bow ties gained traction for their convenience.
Suits: From Sack Suits to Continental Style
Early 1950s suits were characterized by the American sack suit – loose-fitting, straight-cut, with minimal shoulder padding. Later in the decade, the Continental or Roman style emerged, offering a more tailored silhouette with darts, a shorter length, and side vents.
Youth Culture: Rebels and Icons
The 1950s witnessed the emergence of distinct youth subcultures, each with its own fashion signature. Jocks sported varsity jackets, while Greasers embraced leather jackets, T-shirts, and jeans, 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 and Shorts: Pleats, Cuffs, and Bermuda Style
Trousers were generally wide-legged, often featuring pleats and cuffs. Flat-front trousers also started to appear. Shorts, frequently pleated, were styled like dress trousers but in bolder patterns and colors. The Bermuda style, with shorts worn with over-the-calf socks, gained popularity.
Shoes: From Oxfords to Winklepickers
Classic Oxfords and brogues remained popular footwear choices. Saddle shoes and white bucks were also fashionable. The winklepicker, with its sharply pointed toe, was a unique but short-lived trend. Chukka boots emerged as a stylish and enduring option, while comfortable leather slippers became a common sight at home. Elvis Presley’s blue suede shoes added a touch of rebellious flair.
Overcoats: Wide and Warm
Overcoats in the 1950s were typically wide and loose-fitting, crafted from heavy fabrics for warmth and drape. Popular styles included single and double-breasted overcoats in colors like brown, gray, and black. The Ulster and Paletot overcoats were also favored choices.
Accessories: Belts, Scarves, and Pocket Squares
Woven leather belts with unique buckles allowed men to express their personal style. Scarves, known as mufflers, were a common accessory, along with leather gloves in bolder colors. Socks and pocket squares also embraced brighter hues and patterns.
The 1950s were a transformative era for men’s fashion, laying the groundwork for many styles that continue to influence contemporary menswear.
