The 1920s was a decade of significant change and innovation in men’s fashion. After the end of World War I, people embraced a new sense of freedom and celebration, and fashion became a means of self-expression. Men’s clothing during this time featured distinct silhouettes, fabrics, and styles that set it apart from previous eras.
Understanding 1920s Men’s Fashion Styles
Suits
Silhouette: Suits in the 1920s had a looser, more relaxed fit compared to the earlier decades. The jackets were often single-breasted with notch lapels and a natural shoulder line. The waist was nipped in slightly, giving a more defined shape. Trousers were high-waisted and wide-legged, with a crease down the front.
Patterns and Fabrics: Pinstripes were extremely popular, but not the only pattern. Herringbone, houndstooth, and Prince of Wales check were also commonly seen. Fabrics such as wool, tweed, and flannel were favored for their durability and texture. Linen was a popular choice for summer suits, offering breathability in warmer weather.
Casual Wear
Knitwear: Sweaters were an important part of casual 1920s men’s wear. V-neck and crew-neck sweaters, often made of wool, were worn over shirts. Cardigans were also popular, and they could be buttoned up for a more formal look or left open for a casual vibe.
Sportswear: Tennis and golf were popular sports, and sportswear reflected this. Knickerbockers (knee-length trousers) were worn for outdoor activities, paired with argyle socks and a tailored jacket.
Headwear
Fedora: The fedora was the most popular hat of the 1920s. It had a snap brim made of soft felt, which was more floppy and crushable compared to modern fedoras. The brims were typically narrower or shorter, and the crowns were higher. Hat bands were often wide.
Flat Cap: The pancake-like one-piece flat cap was a common casual hat. It came in various materials like tweed, wool, linen, and cotton, and in patterns such as houndstooth and Prince of Wales check.
Newsboy Cap: A close relative of the flat cap, the newsboy cap had a full, rounded shape and a short brim. Made from tweed or wool, it was favored by working-class men.
Straw Boater: This was the go-to hat for summertime. With its stiff, flat-topped design and jaunty band, it exuded a carefree and relaxed look.
Buying Options
Physical Vintage Stores in the US
Crowley Vintage (Brooklyn, New York): Located at 147 Front St Suite 303, Brooklyn, this store is a hidden gem. The owner has a passion for and 1950s ，but it also houses a significant collection of vintage items that could potentially include 1920s-inspired pieces. The store has a wide range of ，with many items from well-known brands like Brooks Brothers and Polo Ralph Lauren from decades ago. The prices average around $250, and each item is carefully restored. The store is usually open on weekend afternoons, and for visits during the week, you need to make an appointment through Instagram (crowley_vintage).
The Way We Wore (Los Angeles, California): Renowned for its extensive collection of vintage clothing, this store has been featured in numerous fashion magazines and has even supplied costumes for movies and TV shows. They likely have a selection of 1920s men’s clothing, from suits to accessories. The store offers a curated collection of high-quality vintage pieces, and their knowledgeable staff can assist you in finding the perfect 1920s-style item.
Physical Vintage Stores in Europe
Beyond Retro (London, UK): 7With multiple locations in London, Beyond Retro is a large-scale vintage store. They have a vast inventory of men’s vintage clothing, and it’s possible to find 1920s-style suits, shirts, and hats here. The store is known for its reasonable prices and a constantly changing stock, so you might discover a unique 1920s piece during your visit.
Vintage-D (Berlin, Germany): This store specializes in high-end vintage fashion. They source their items carefully, and you can expect to find well-preserved 1920s men’s fashion items, especially if you’re looking for more formal wear like suits and dress shirts. The store’s interior is also designed to give customers a sense of the era, enhancing the shopping experience.
Online Vintage Marketplaces
eBay: eBay is a global online marketplace with a huge selection of vintage items. You can find a wide range of 1920s men’s clothing, from complete suits to individual accessories like hats and ties. Sellers from all over the world list their vintage finds, so you have a chance to get authentic 1920s pieces. For example, you might come across a 1920s-1930s double-breasted three-piece suit set. However, when buying on eBay, it’s important to carefully check the item description, condition, and seller reviews.
Etsy: Etsy is known for its handmade and vintage items. Many independent sellers on Etsy offer 1920s-inspired men’s clothing. Some sellers create modern interpretations of 1920s styles, while others sell genuine vintage pieces. You can find unique items here, such as hand-tailored 1920s-style shirts or custom-made fedoras that replicate the look of the era.
Ruby Lane: This online marketplace focuses on high-end antiques and vintage items. The selection of 1920s men’s fashion on Ruby Lane is likely to be more curated and of higher quality. You can expect to find rare and well-preserved suits, overcoats, and accessories from the 1920s. Although the prices might be on the higher side, the items are often in excellent condition and are true representations of the era’s fashion.
Reproduction and Vintage-Inspired Clothing Brands
Moss Bros: Moss Bros offers a curated collection of 1920s-style men’s clothing. Their range includes suits, shirts, and accessories that are designed to capture the essence of 1920s fashion without looking like a costume. For example, they have slim-fit tweed jackets in colors and patterns reminiscent of the 1920s, as well as double-cuff white marcella dress shirts. Their prices are relatively reasonable, considering the quality of the reproduction.
Vintage Vixen (for Women’s-Inspired Men’s Pieces): Although primarily known for women’s vintage-inspired clothing, Vintage Vixen also has some items that can be adapted for men or inspire a 1920s-style look. Their range of accessories, such as suspenders and bow ties, can add an authentic touch to a 1920s-inspired men’s outfit.
Hawes & Curtis: This brand offers a selection of men’s shirts that can be used to create a 1920s-style look. Their dress shirts, with features like double cuffs and wing collars, are suitable for pairing with 1920s-style suits. They also have a range of ties and accessories that can complement the overall look.
Costume Stores
Party City: While mainly known for general party costumes, Party City might have some basic 1920s-style men’s clothing items, especially around Halloween or for themed parties. They usually carry simple suits, fedoras, and suspenders that can give you a quick and affordable 1920s look. However, the quality might not be as high as that of vintage or reproduction items from other sources.
Halloween Express: Similar to Party City, Halloween Express offers a range of costumes, including 1920s-inspired outfits for men. They often have gangster-style suits, newsboy caps, and other accessories that can help you put together a 1920s-themed outfit. These items are more focused on the visual aspect for a one-time event rather than long-term wear.
Custom Tailors
Local Custom Tailors: If you’re looking for a truly authentic and well-fitting 1920s-style suit or other clothing item, a local custom tailor can be a great option. Bring in pictures and references of 1920s men’s fashion, and the tailor can create a garment based on your measurements and the style you desire. They can choose appropriate fabrics and add details like the right lapel style, pocket design, and trouser creasing to accurately replicate the 1920s look.
Online Custom Tailoring Services: There are also online custom tailoring services available. Companies like Indochino allow you to customize your suit online. You can choose from a range of styles, fabrics, and details, and they can create a suit inspired by 1920s fashion. They provide detailed measurement guides to ensure a proper fit, and you can communicate with their design team to get the look just right.
Tips for Buying 1920s Men’s Fashion
Research the Era: Before you start shopping, thoroughly research 1920s men’s fashion. Look at historical photographs, watch movies set in the 1920s, and read fashion history books. This will help you identify the key elements of the style and what to look for when buying.
Check the Condition: When buying vintage items, carefully check the condition. Look for signs of wear, damage, or moth holes. For reproduction items, check the quality of the stitching, fabric, and overall construction.
Try Before You Buy: If possible, try on the clothing before purchasing. This is especially important for suits and jackets to ensure a proper fit. For online purchases, make sure to check the size charts provided by the seller.
Budget Wisely: Vintage and reproduction 1920s men’s fashion can vary widely in price. Set a budget before you start shopping and be prepared to spend more for high-quality, authentic items. Remember that a well-made 1920s-style suit or accessory can be a long-lasting addition to your wardrobe.
Conclusion
Finding 1920s men’s fashion is an exciting journey that allows you to step back in time and embrace a classic and stylish era. Whether you choose to explore vintage stores, online marketplaces, reproduction brands, or work with a custom tailor, there are plenty of options available to help you achieve the perfect 1920s look. By understanding the styles of the era and following the tips for buying, you can build a collection of 1920s-inspired clothing that is both fashionable and authentic. So, go ahead and start your search for that perfect 1920s-style suit, hat, or accessory and make a statement with your fashion choices.
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