The 1920s, famously known as the Roaring Twenties, was an era of change in many aspects of life, including fashion. Men's fashion during the 1920s was all about embracing a new sense of style, comfort, and relaxation. The fashion trends of the 1920s were heavily influenced by the economic, social, and political changes that occurred at that time. In this article, we will explore the evolution of men's fashion during the Roaring Twenties.
Business Attire
The 1920s marked the beginning of a new era of business attire for men. The three-piece suit, consisting of a jacket, vest, and pants became the staple for business attire. The suits were typically made of wool and featured wide lapels, padded shoulders, and a loose fit. The pants were high-waisted and had a wide leg, giving men a more relaxed and comfortable feel. The suits were often paired with a white dress shirt, a tie, and a fedora hat.
Casual Wear
During the 1920s, the concept of casual wear was introduced in men's fashion. Men began to wear sportswear such as knickers, pullover sweaters, and cardigans. The sportswear was loose-fitting and comfortable, which was a departure from the traditional form-fitting clothing that was popular in previous decades. The casual wear was often worn for outdoor activities such as golfing or hiking.
The Great Gatsby Look
The Great Gatsby, a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, was published in 1925 and had a significant impact on men's fashion during the 1920s. The book's main character, Jay Gatsby, was known for his sharp dressing and luxurious lifestyle. The Great Gatsby look was characterized by brightly colored suits, white dress shirts, and ties. The suits were often made of silk or wool and featured bold patterns such as stripes or checks.
Accessories
Accessories played a significant role in men's fashion during the 1920s. Men often wore hats, such as fedoras or newsboy caps, to complete their look. Pocket watches were also popular, and many men carried them as a symbol of status. Another popular accessory during the 1920s was the cigarette holder, which was often seen as a symbol of sophistication and elegance.
The Impact of Hollywood
Hollywood played a significant role in influencing men's fashion during the 1920s. Movie stars such as Charlie Chaplin and Rudolph Valentino popularized the trend of wearing loose-fitting clothing and baggy pants. The Hollywood stars also helped to popularize the fedora hat, which became a staple in men's fashion during the 1920s.
The End of the Roaring Twenties
The Roaring Twenties came to an end with the onset of the Great Depression in 1929. The economic downturn led to a shift in men's fashion, and the relaxed, casual look became less popular. Men began to wear more traditional and conservative clothing, such as suits with narrower lapels and slimmer cuts. The end of the Roaring Twenties marked the end of an era in men's fashion.
Conclusion
The Roaring Twenties was a decade of significant change in men's fashion. The era saw a shift towards more relaxed and comfortable clothing, with an emphasis on casual wear. The Great Gatsby look, popularized by F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, had a significant impact on men's fashion during this period. Hollywood also played a significant role in influencing men's fashion during the 1920s. The end of the decade marked the end of an era in men's fashion, as the economic downturn led to a shift towards more traditional and conservative clothing.
