Following World War II, menswear experienced a significant shift. The 1950s marked an era of renewed optimism, economic prosperity, and the rise of youth culture, all reflected in the decade’s distinctive clothing styles. This article delves into the key elements of 1950s men’s fashion, from hats and hairstyles to suits and casual wear, providing a comprehensive overview of this transformative period in men’s style.
The 1950s saw a resurgence in hat-wearing, with fedoras, boaters, Panama hats, and flat caps making a comeback. Color became a defining feature, with hats available in a wide array of hues and featuring decorative hatbands.
Hairstyles in the 50s were characterized by volume and intricate styling, often achieved with pomade. Popular styles included the pompadour, the jelly roll, and the slick-back. While most men were clean-shaven, James Dean popularized a more rugged, stubbled look.
Sunglasses became a symbol of style and affluence, with thick-rimmed plastic frames and browline glasses in various colors gaining popularity.
Waistcoats, while no longer essential for business suits, were often worn as contrasting garments in different colors and materials.
Shirt collars were predominantly attached, with the club collar experiencing a revival. Bold shirt colors gradually gave way to more subdued pastel tones. Casual clothing gained traction, with Marlon Brando’s iconic T-shirt look in “A Streetcar Named Desire” marking a turning point. Hawaiian shirts, gaucho shirts, and camp collar shirts also became popular casual options.
Neckties were widely worn, featuring a variety of patterns, colors, and materials. Bow ties transitioned from wider styles to slimmer, longer shapes, with an expanded range of colors and patterns. Pre-tied neckwear emerged as a convenient, albeit less stylish, alternative.
Early 1950s suits were typically American sack suits – loose-fitting, single-breasted, with minimal padding. Later in the decade, the more tailored continental style, pioneered by Brioni, gained popularity. Leisure jackets, such as cardigans and sweaters, were favored for home wear, while sport coats in bolder colors and patterns were worn for casual outings.
Trousers were generally wide-legged, often featuring pleats and cuffs. Shorts, often pleated and patterned, were also common. Shoes included Oxfords, brogues, saddle shoes, and the short-lived winklepickers. Chukka boots and blue suede shoes, popularized by Elvis, also emerged during this time.
Overcoats were typically wide, heavy, and draped well. Popular styles included double-breasted overcoats with patch pockets, Ulsters, and Paletots. Accessories like woven leather belts with unique buckles, scarves, gloves, colorful socks, and pocket squares allowed for personal expression. The 1950s were a defining decade for men’s fashion, laying the groundwork for many styles that continue to influence menswear today.
