Step into the Roaring Twenties: A Comprehensive Guide to 1920s Men's Costume

Introduction

The 1920s, an era of unparalleled glamour and societal transformation, witnessed a dramatic shift in men's fashion. The traditional three-piece suits of the Victorian era gave way to a more relaxed and stylish ensemble that epitomized the spirit of the roaring twenties. This comprehensive guide will del into the intricacies of 1920s men's costume, providing a wealth of information and inspiration for those seeking to recreate the iconic look of this bygone era.

The Evolution of Men's Fashion in the 1920s

The Influence of the Great War

The horrors of World War I had a profound impact on societal norms, including fashion. The war's end brought about a desire for change, a rejection of pre-war formality and a embrace of a more relaxed and comfortable style.

The Rise of the Flappers

The flappers, a new generation of women who defied social conventions, played a significant role in shaping 1920s fashion. Their short skirts, bobbed hair and carefree attitude inspired men to adopt a similar sense of liberation in their own attire.

Essential Elements of a 1920s Men's Costume

Suit

Single- or Double-Breasted: Double-breasted suits were popular in the early 1920s, while single-breasted suits became more common as the decade progressed.

Notched or Peaked Lapels: Notched lapels were the most common, but peaked lapels were also fashionable.

High-Waisted Trousers: Trousers sat high on the waist, often with pleats or turn-ups.

Shirt

White or Striped: White dress shirts were the most common, but striped shirts were also popular.

Attached Collar: Attached stiff collars were typical, often with tab collars or wing collars.

Tie

Narrow or Bow Tie: Narrow ties or bow ties were the preferred choice, in solid colors or patterns.

Footwear

Oxford or Brogue Shoes: Oxfords and brogue shoes were the most common footwear, often in black or brown leather.

Accessories

Suspender: Suspenders were essential for holding up trousers and added a touch of style.

Pocket Watch: Pocket watches were a common accessory, often attached to a chain.

Hat: Fedoras, trilbys and newsboy caps were popular hat choices.

Dressing for Different Occasions

Daytime vs. Evening Wear

The level of formality in men's attire depended on the occasion. Daytime wear was more relaxed, with suits in lighter colors or fabrics such as linen or seersucker. Evening wear was more formal, with darker suits and accessories such as tuxedos or dinner jackets.

Gatsby Parties

Inspired by F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby, Gatsby parties were lavish affairs that required guests to dress in their finest attire. For men, this meant tailcoats or dinner jackets with white tie or bow ties.

Key Figures in 1920s Men's Fashion

Fred Astaire

Fred Astaire, the legendary dancer and actor, was known for his impeccable style both on and off the screen. His suits were always tailored to perfection, and he often accessorised with a silk scarf or pocket square.

Cary Grant

Another style icon of the 1920s was Cary Grant. His relaxed and sophisticated style influenced men's fashion for decades to come.

Inspiring Stories from the 1920s

The Birth of the Zoot Suit

In the late 1930s, a new style emerged among African American and Latino youth known as the zoot suit. This flamboyant ensemble, with its wide-legged trousers, long jackets and flashy accessories, challenged societal norms and became a symbol of rebellion and self-expression.

The Duke Ellington Orchestra

Duke Ellington's orchestra was one of the most popular and influential musical groups of the 1920s. The musicians' sharp suits and elegant demeanor epitomized the style and sophistication of the era.

The Harlem Renaissance

The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural and artistic movement that celebrated African American culture and achievements. Fashion played a significant role in this movement, with many African American designers and tailors creating stylish and innovative clothing.

Pros and Cons of Dressing in 1920s Style Today

Pros:

• Timeless elegance: 1920s men's costume exudes a timeless elegance that never goes out of style.
• Versatility: The pieces of a 1920s costume can be mixed and matched to create different looks for various occasions.
• Fit for special occasions: 1920s-themed parties and events provide an opportunity to dress up in style and embrace the glamour of the era.

Cons:

• Can be expensive: Acquiring an authentic 1920s costume can be expensive, especially if you opt for custom tailoring.
• May not be practical for everyday wear: The formal nature of 1920s suits may not be suitable for everyday activities.
• Requires attention to detail: To achieve an authentic 1920s look, it's important to pay attention to details such as accessories, hair and makeup.

FAQs

1. What were the most popular colors for 1920s men's suits?
   According to the Fashion Institute of Technology, the most popular colors for men's suits in the 1920s were gray, brown and blue.

2. What type of shirts were worn with 1920s suits?
   White dress shirts with attached stiff collars were the most common type of shirt worn with 1920s suits.

3. What was the average cost of a 1920s suit?
   The average cost of a 1920s suit varied depending on the quality and fabric. A basic suit could cost around $20, while a more elaborate suit could cost upwards of $100.

4. What were the most popular hat styles for men in the 1920s?
   Fedoras, trilbys and newsboy caps were the most popular hat styles for men in the 1920s.

5. Did men wear makeup in the 1920s?
   While it was not as common as it is today, some men did wear makeup in the 1920s, such as hair pomade and mustache wax.

6. How long did the 1920s fashion trends last?
   The 1920s fashion trends began to decline in the late 1920s and early 1930s, as the Great Depression brought about a more conservative and practical approach to fashion.

Call to Action

Embracing 1920s men's costume is a captivating way to experience the glamour and sophistication of a bygone era. Whether you're attending a themed party, seeking inspiration for a special occasion or simply want to add a touch of vintage style to your wardrobe, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to create an authentic and stylish 1920s look. So step into the roaring twenties and embrace the timeless elegance of this iconic fashion era!