The 18th century, also known as the 1700s, was a period of dramatic change in men’s fashion. From the opulent styles of the early 1700s to the more streamlined silhouettes of the late century, 1700s Fashion Male showcased evolving tastes and societal shifts. This guide explores the key elements and trends of men’s attire during this fascinating era.
Early 1700s Men’s Fashion: Opulence and Extravagance
The early 1700s saw men embracing elaborate ensembles. A typical outfit consisted of a knee-length coat, waistcoat, and breeches. Coats often featured full pleats at the sides and buttoned all the way down. Muted colors like brown were popular in English men’s dress, often adorned with silver-gilt embroidery. As seen in a coat from the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A), dated 1700-1720, these garments reflect the extravagance of the era. This particular coat, potentially worn by two generations due to altered cuffs, provides a glimpse into the longevity and adaptability of 1700s fashion male garments.
Mid-1700s: Evolution of the Silhouette
By the mid-1700s, changes began to appear. Another example from the V&A, a 1745 coat and waistcoat, showcases this evolution. Coats retained their full skirts but were often made from richer fabrics like shot silk. Waistcoats, though still sleeved, started to become shorter. The ornate brocaded patterns popular in the Late Baroque period are evident in the waistcoat’s intricate floral design.
Late 1700s: Towards a Streamlined Look
The latter half of the 18th century witnessed a further shift in 1700s fashion male. As described by the V&A, coat skirts became less full, and waistcoats continued to shorten, revealing more of the leg. Breeches, often made from knitted silk, provided a better fit. Low-heeled shoes with pointed toes replaced the earlier stacked heels. Wigs, a prominent feature of the early century, gradually fell out of fashion, replaced by tied-back styles or abandoned altogether for everyday wear. The tricorn hat remained a staple accessory. A suit from the 1780s, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies the refined elegance of this period, showcasing intricate embroidery on luxurious silk velvet. The high collar and narrow sleeves point to the evolving silhouette.
The End of the Century: Double-Breasted Styles and Rising Collars
The late 1700s saw the emergence of double-breasted styles in both coats and waistcoats. Waistcoats lost their skirts and were cut straight across at the hem. Collars on waistcoats grew larger, often featuring prominent lapels. A 1795-1800 waistcoat from the V&A showcases this trend with its generous collar and intricate ribbon decorations.
Conclusion: A Century of Transformation in Men’s Fashion
1700s fashion male underwent significant transformations throughout the century. From the elaborate and opulent styles of the early 1700s to the more streamlined and refined looks of the late century, men’s attire reflected changing tastes and societal trends. The evolution of the coat, waistcoat, breeches, and accessories provides a fascinating window into the history of men’s fashion during this period. Each garment tells a story of evolving elegance and the enduring influence of 18th-century style.
