1979 Fashion Men A Style Retrospective

Defining 1979 Men’s Fashion Trends

1979 fashion men – 1979 men’s fashion reflected a blend of lingering 70s styles and emerging trends that would shape the 80s. The overall aesthetic was a mix of relaxed fits, bold colors, and a variety of influences from different subcultures. This period showcased a fascinating interplay between established styles and the burgeoning counter-cultural movements of the time.

Overall Aesthetic and Silhouettes

The overall aesthetic of 1979 menswear leaned towards a more relaxed and comfortable style compared to the more structured looks of the previous decade. Wide-legged trousers, loose-fitting shirts, and layered garments were common. Key silhouettes included the relaxed, often oversized, fit, particularly noticeable in shirts and trousers. The bell-bottom trend was still present, though beginning to fade in popularity, while straight-leg jeans and more tailored trousers were also gaining traction.

Dominant Colors and Patterns

The color palette of 1979 men’s fashion was vibrant and diverse. Bold colors like mustard yellow, burnt orange, deep greens, and rich browns were popular choices. Patterns included paisley, floral prints (particularly on shirts), and geometric designs. Denim, in various washes and shades, remained a staple.

Comparison with Preceding and Following Decades

Compared to the more formal and often conservative styles of the 1960s, 1979 fashion embraced a more casual and expressive approach. It moved away from the sharp tailoring of earlier years. Looking ahead, 1979’s relaxed fits and bold colors would pave the way for the more structured and power-dressing styles of the 1980s, although the influence of 70s aesthetics remained visible for some time.

Key Garments and Accessories of 1979 Men’s Fashion

Specific garments and accessories played crucial roles in defining the unique style of 1979 menswear. The combination of these items created the overall aesthetic of the era.

Denim Jackets

Denim jackets were a cornerstone of 1979 men’s fashion, often appearing in classic styles with minimal embellishment. Variations included light and dark washes, and some featured embroidered designs or patches reflecting the wearer’s personal style or subcultural affiliations. The fit was typically relaxed, mirroring the overall casual trend of the time.

Shirt Styles, 1979 fashion men

Popular shirt styles included button-down shirts in various fabrics like cotton, chambray, and silk. Paisley and floral patterns were prevalent, alongside solid colors. The fit ranged from relaxed to slightly tailored, reflecting the diversity of styles within the era.

Trousers and Pants

Wide-legged trousers, bell-bottoms (though their popularity was waning), and straight-leg jeans were common choices. Corduroy and denim were popular fabrics. Some trousers featured embellishments like stitching or subtle flares. The overall emphasis was on comfort and a relaxed silhouette.

Footwear Trends

Footwear options included sneakers, loafers, and boots. Leather boots, especially those with a slightly worn or vintage look, were particularly popular. Sneakers were generally more casual and often featured simple designs. Loafers offered a more polished yet still relaxed option.

Popular Accessories

A range of accessories completed the 1979 men’s look. These added personality and reflected individual style preferences.

Accessory	Description	Examples
Belts	Leather belts with simple buckles were common. Some featured decorative elements.	Leather belts in brown or black, possibly with a simple metal buckle.
Hats	Fedora hats, baseball caps, and knit beanies were all popular choices, depending on the occasion and personal style.	Fedora hats in felt, baseball caps with team logos or simple designs, knit beanies in various colors.
Jewelry	Simple necklaces, bracelets, and rings were worn, often reflecting personal style or subcultural affiliation.	Silver or leather bracelets, simple rings, and pendant necklaces.

Influence of Subcultures on 1979 Men’s Fashion: 1979 Fashion Men

Several subcultures significantly impacted the diverse styles seen in 1979 men’s fashion. These groups often expressed their identities through unique clothing choices.

Punk Rock Influence

Punk rock’s influence was characterized by a rebellious and anti-establishment aesthetic. Ripped jeans, leather jackets, safety pins, and band t-shirts were common elements. The look was deliberately unkempt and defiant.

Disco Music’s Impact

Disco’s influence brought a more flamboyant and glamorous style. Sharp, tailored shirts, often in bright colors or bold patterns, were combined with wide-legged trousers. Platform shoes and accessories added to the overall dazzling look.

Comparison of Subcultural Styles

Punk and disco represented contrasting ends of the stylistic spectrum in 1979. Punk embraced rebellion and deconstruction, while disco celebrated glamour and extravagance. Other subcultures, like the burgeoning New Wave movement, blended elements from both, creating a diverse and dynamic fashion landscape.

Clothing Items Associated with Subcultures

• Punk: Ripped jeans, leather jackets, safety pins, band t-shirts, Doc Martens.
• Disco: Sharp, tailored shirts (often brightly colored or patterned), wide-legged trousers, platform shoes, flashy jewelry.
• New Wave: A blend of elements from punk and disco, often incorporating more tailored silhouettes and unique accessories.

Iconic 1979 Men’s Fashion Icons and Media Representations

Several prominent figures shaped and reflected the fashion trends of 1979, with their styles often showcased in popular media.

Prominent Male Figures and Their Styles

John Travolta, with his iconic role in “Saturday Night Fever,” embodied the glamorous disco style. His tailored suits and platform shoes became instantly recognizable. Other figures, such as musicians from various bands (e.g., punk, new wave), showcased the alternative styles of the era.

Men’s Fashion in Film and Television

Films and television shows of the era frequently depicted the diverse fashion trends of 1979. “Saturday Night Fever” is a prime example, showcasing the sharp, flamboyant style of disco. Other shows and films reflected the more casual and relaxed styles prevalent outside of the disco scene.

Fashion Icon	Signature Style	Media Example
John Travolta	Sharp, tailored suits, platform shoes, often in bright colors.	Saturday Night Fever
[Another Icon – Example: A punk musician]	Ripped jeans, leather jackets, safety pins, band t-shirts.	[Example Film or TV Show featuring this style]
[Another Icon – Example: A New Wave musician]	A blend of tailored and deconstructed elements, often with unique accessories.	[Example Film or TV Show featuring this style]

The Evolution and Legacy of 1979 Men’s Fashion

Elements of 1979 men’s fashion continue to reappear in modern trends, demonstrating its lasting impact on contemporary style.

Reappearance of 1979 Styles in Modern Trends

The relaxed fits, bold colors, and use of denim from 1979 have all seen revivals in modern menswear. Designers frequently draw inspiration from the era’s diverse styles, updating them for contemporary tastes.

Lasting Impact on Contemporary Style

The casual yet expressive nature of 1979 menswear continues to resonate today. The willingness to experiment with color, pattern, and silhouette has left a significant mark on how men approach fashion.

Differences Between 1979 and Modern Interpretations

While modern interpretations often borrow elements from 1979, they tend to be more refined and tailored. The overall fit is often slimmer, and the color palettes are sometimes more muted. However, the spirit of individuality and self-expression remains a common thread.

Modern Outfit Inspired by 1979 Fashion

A modern outfit inspired by 1979 might consist of dark wash, straight-leg jeans, a mustard yellow corduroy shirt with a subtle paisley pattern, and brown leather loafers. A simple leather belt and a fedora hat would complete the look, offering a contemporary take on the relaxed yet stylish aesthetic of the era.

1979 men’s fashion saw a resurgence of disco-era styles, with flared trousers and vibrant colors dominating the scene. It’s interesting to contrast this with the stark realities of menswear in the 1800s, particularly for the less fortunate; a look at 1800s mens fashion poor reveals the practical, often worn-out clothing reflecting economic hardship. This difference highlights how drastically fashion choices reflect societal circumstances, and the relative abundance of options available in 1979.

Question Bank

What were some common fabrics used in men’s clothing in 1979?

Denim, corduroy, polyester, and various blends were prevalent. Leather was also popular, especially in jackets.

How did 1979 men’s fashion differ from the 1970s as a whole?

While 1979 shared some broader 70s trends, it saw a sharper focus on specific subcultural styles like punk and disco, creating more distinct looks within the decade’s overall aesthetic.

Were there any notable fashion designers who significantly impacted 1979 menswear?

While specific designers weren’t as widely publicized as today, the overall trends were influenced by the broader cultural shifts and the styles adopted by musicians and celebrities.

What accessories were considered essential for completing a 1979 men’s outfit?

Belts, often wide and statement pieces, were common. Hats, ranging from fedoras to baseball caps, were popular, along with scarves and sometimes more flamboyant jewelry.