Mens Fashion By Decade A Style Retrospective

Men’s Fashion Through the Decades

Mens fashion by decade – Men’s fashion has undergone a dramatic transformation throughout the 20th and early 21st centuries, reflecting societal shifts, cultural influences, and technological advancements. From the dapper suits of the 1920s to the relaxed styles of the 2010s, each decade has left its unique mark on menswear. This exploration delves into the key characteristics and defining trends of men’s fashion across several significant decades.

Men’s Fashion in the 1920s

The 1920s witnessed a significant shift in men’s fashion, moving away from the more formal styles of the Victorian era towards a more relaxed and streamlined silhouette. The influence of the flapper era and the burgeoning Art Deco movement are clearly visible.

Key characteristics included a slimmer, more athletic fit. High-waisted trousers with a dropped crotch were common, often paired with single-breasted jackets. The overall aesthetic was one of clean lines and understated elegance.

Iconic garments included the Oxford button-down shirt, the double-breasted suit (though less prevalent than the single-breasted option), and the newsboy cap. Accessories such as spats, pocket watches, and silk scarves added a touch of sophistication.

While upper-class men often favored bespoke tailoring and luxurious fabrics, working-class men adapted these trends with more readily available materials and simpler styles.

Garment	Material	Style	Class Association
Suit	Wool (upper class), cotton twill (working class)	Single-breasted, slim fit	Both
Trousers	Wool (upper class), cotton (working class)	High-waisted, wide-legged	Both
Shirt	Cotton, linen	Button-down collar	Both
Overcoat	Wool, cashmere (upper class), gabardine (working class)	Long, belted	Both

Men’s Fashion in the 1950s

The 1950s saw Hollywood’s significant influence on men’s fashion, creating a polished and sophisticated look. Popular culture, particularly films and television, showcased sharply tailored suits, crisp shirts, and polished shoes, establishing a standard of masculine style.

Subcultures like the greasers, with their leather jackets, slicked-back hair, and jeans, and the Ivy League style, characterized by preppy button-downs, chinos, and loafers, added diversity to the decade’s menswear landscape.

A hypothetical 1950s outfit might include:

• A grey flannel suit: A classic, impeccably tailored suit in a mid-grey flannel, representing the sophisticated style of the era.
• A crisp white Oxford cloth button-down shirt: A staple of the 1950s wardrobe, providing a clean and classic contrast to the suit.
• A silk tie: A patterned silk tie, perhaps in a subtle geometric design or a classic paisley print, adding a touch of personality.
• Leather oxfords: Sleek, polished leather oxfords in black or brown, completing the polished look.

Men’s Fashion in the 1970s

The 1970s were a period of eclecticism and experimentation in men’s fashion, heavily influenced by various musical genres. Disco’s flamboyant style, with its shimmering fabrics and bold colors, contrasted sharply with the more subdued styles of other subcultures.

Key trends included bell-bottom trousers, platform shoes, and brightly colored shirts. The era also saw the rise of leisurewear, with comfortable knitwear and sportswear gaining popularity.

• Disco Influence: Sequined shirts, wide-legged trousers, platform shoes.
• Rock and Roll Influence: Denim, leather jackets, band t-shirts.
• Iconic Designers: Yves Saint Laurent’s Le Smoking tuxedo and designs from designers like Giorgio Armani contributed significantly to the decade’s style.

Men’s Fashion in the 1990s

The 1990s saw a fascinating interplay between the grunge aesthetic and the burgeoning influence of hip-hop culture on men’s fashion. These contrasting styles reflected the decade’s diverse musical and cultural landscape.

Grunge emphasized a deliberately unkempt look: oversized flannels, ripped jeans, and Doc Martens. Hip-hop, conversely, favored baggy jeans, oversized shirts, and bold accessories. Both styles, however, contributed to a shift towards more casual and comfortable clothing.

A mood board for 1990s men’s fashion would feature muted tones, distressed textures, and a sense of casual rebellion. Think faded denim, worn leather, and the bold graphic prints of band tees and streetwear.

Men’s Fashion in the 2010s

The rise of menswear blogs in the 2010s significantly impacted fashion trends. These online platforms democratized fashion information, enabling a wider audience to access and engage with style discussions.

Key trends included skinny jeans, tailored fits, and a renewed interest in classic menswear pieces. Technology and social media played a crucial role in disseminating these trends, influencing consumer choices and shaping the overall landscape of men’s fashion.

Evolution of Men’s Suits Across Decades, Mens fashion by decade

Decade	Suit Style	Fabric Trends	Notable Accessories
1920s	Slim, single-breasted	Wool, flannel	Pocket watch, spats
1950s	Broad-shouldered, structured	Flannel, gabardine	Silk tie, pocket square
1970s	More relaxed fit	Polyester blends	Wide ties
1990s	Slightly looser fit	Wool, linen blends	Minimalist accessories
2010s	Slim, tailored fit	Super 100s wool, cashmere	Minimalist accessories, patterned ties

The Impact of Subcultures on Men’s Fashion

Several subcultures have significantly impacted men’s fashion, often challenging mainstream trends and leaving a lasting legacy.

• Mods: Known for their sharp suits, tailored shirts, and scooters, Mods embraced a clean and sophisticated look that contrasted with the prevailing styles of the 1960s.
• Punks: With their ripped clothing, safety pins, and rebellious attitude, Punks challenged the norms of fashion and presented a raw and confrontational aesthetic.
• Hipsters: Combining vintage finds with modern elements, Hipsters created a unique style that blended irony, individuality, and a rejection of mainstream trends.

Clarifying Questions: Mens Fashion By Decade

What are some common fashion faux pas to avoid when emulating past decades?

Avoid overly literal interpretations; focus on adapting key elements to modern contexts. For instance, while bell bottoms were popular in the 70s, excessively wide legs might look dated today. A more modern adaptation might incorporate the flare in a more subtle way.

How can I incorporate elements from different decades into my current wardrobe?

Mix and match! A modern tailored blazer can be paired with slim-fit jeans for a contemporary take on 1950s style. Similarly, incorporating a vintage graphic tee can add a 90s vibe to a more classic outfit.

Where can I find vintage menswear pieces?

Thrift stores, vintage shops, online marketplaces (like eBay or Etsy), and consignment stores are excellent places to find authentic vintage pieces. Be sure to check the condition and sizing carefully before purchasing.