The 1920s, also known as the Roaring Twenties, was a time of great change and cultural upheaval in America. The end of World War I brought about a newfound sense of freedom and liberation, which was reflected in the fashion of the time. Men’s fashion in the 1920s was characterized by a departure from the traditional styles of the past and a move towards a more modern and relaxed look. In this article, we will take a closer look at the fashion trends that defined men’s style in the 1920s.
The Suit: A Symbol of Masculinity
The suit was the cornerstone of men’s fashion in the 1920s. However, the suits of the 1920s were quite different from those of previous decades. The traditional three-piece suit, consisting of a jacket, vest, and trousers, was still popular, but it was now cut to fit closer to the body. The jacket was shorter and had a slimmer silhouette, while the trousers were high-waisted and tapered towards the ankle. This new style of suit was designed to accentuate the natural lines of the body and create a more streamlined look.
The fabrics used for suits in the 1920s were also different from those of previous decades. Wool was still the most popular choice, but it was now lighter and more breathable. Tweed and flannel were also popular choices for colder weather. Suits were often accessorized with a tie, pocket square, and fedora hat. The fedora hat was a staple of men’s fashion in the 1920s and was worn by men of all ages.
The Rise of Sportswear
The 1920s saw a rise in popularity of sportswear among men. This was due in part to the increasing popularity of sports such as golf, tennis, and polo. Sportswear was designed to be more comfortable and functional than traditional formal wear. It was also more casual in style, reflecting the relaxed attitudes of the time.
One popular type of sportswear was the knickerbocker suit. This consisted of a jacket, vest, and knickers, which were short trousers that ended just below the knee. Knickerbocker suits were often made from lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton and were worn with knee-high socks and low-cut shoes.
Another popular type of sportswear was the cardigan sweater. This was a casual alternative to the suit jacket and was often worn with a collared shirt and tie. The cardigan sweater was made from wool or cashmere and was designed to be comfortable and warm.
The Influence of Hollywood
The 1920s saw the rise of Hollywood as a major cultural force in America. Movie stars such as Rudolph Valentino, Clark Gable, and Gary Cooper became style icons for men across the country. Their on-screen personas were reflected in their fashion choices, which helped to shape men’s fashion in the 1920s.
One popular trend that emerged in the 1920s was the use of bold patterns and colors. This was influenced by Hollywood’s use of Technicolor in movies. Men began to wear suits in bright colors such as yellow, green, and blue. Bold patterns such as stripes, checks, and plaids also became popular.
Another trend that emerged in the 1920s was the use of accessories to add personality to an outfit. Hollywood stars often wore cufflinks, tie bars, and pocket watches to add a touch of elegance to their outfits. This trend was quickly adopted by men across the country.
The End of an Era
The 1920s was a decade of great change and innovation in men’s fashion. However, it was also the end of an era. The stock market crash of 1929 and the subsequent Great Depression brought about a return to more conservative styles. The relaxed and carefree attitudes of the 1920s were replaced by a more serious and somber tone.
The traditional three-piece suit made a comeback in the 1930s, with a return to more conservative colors such as black, navy, and gray. The fedora hat also remained popular, but it was now worn with more formal attire.
Conclusion
The 1920s was a decade of great change and innovation in men’s fashion. The traditional styles of the past were replaced by a more modern and relaxed look. The suit, sportswear, and Hollywood all played a role in shaping men’s fashion in the 1920s. However, the end of the decade brought about a return to more conservative styles, marking the end of an era. Despite this, the fashion trends of the 1920s continue to influence men’s fashion today.