1920s men’s fashion guide

The 1920s were an era of elegance, defined by sharp tailoring and luxurious fabrics. Influenced by the Jazz Age, men embraced a polished yet practical style. Whether you are aiming for a Gatsby-esque look or a more casual vintage vibe, this guide to the classic 920s men’s fashion will help you dress like a true gentleman of the Roaring Twenties.

Key takeaways:

The 1920s emphasised tailored suits with high-waisted trousers, vests, and structured jackets. Accessories like pocket squares, fedoras, watches, and round glasses completed the polished look. High-quality fabrics such as wool, linen, and tweed were common in both formal and casual wear. Casual fashion included knit sweaters, golf attire, and lightweight summer suits. The overall style exuded elegance, refinement, and a touch of playful sophistication.

1920s men’s fashion guide

Roaring 1920s men’s fashion guide. The 1920s saw a shift from stiff, formal Victorian and Edwardian clothing to a more relaxed, stylish, and comfortable wardrobe. The influence of jazz music, Hollywood, and the economic boom led men to adopt fashion-forward styles that emphasised luxury and leisure. Suits became sleeker, accessories more refined, and casual wear gained popularity like never before.

1. Jackets 

Jackets in the 1920s were tailored with a slim fit and often featured peaked or notch lapels. Single-breasted designs were most common, though double-breasted suits also gained popularity. The materials ranged from tweed for daytime wear to wool and cashmere for evening attire. Striped or checked patterns were frequently seen among fashion-forward men.

2. Shirts

The preferred colour for shirts was white, with some people opting for pointed or rounded collars. Photo: @suittielinksbracesman, @theshirtbar.co on Instagram (modified by author). Source: UGC Men’s shirts in the 1920s were made from high-quality cotton or linen and featured a stiff, detachable collar. White was the most popular colour, though pastel shades and subtle stripes were also worn. Collars were either pointed or rounded, designed to be worn with a tie or bow tie. French cuffs and cufflinks added an extra touch of refinement to formal attire.

3. Pants

High waist trousers were preferred and were made from high-quality materials, such as wool and flannel. Photo: @askokeyig on Instagram (modified by author) Source: UGC Trousers in the 1920s had a high waist and were often pleated for a comfortable yet elegant fit. They featured a straight-leg cut, sometimes tapering slightly towards the ankle. Wool and flannel were the most popular fashion materials, making them both stylish and durable. Suspenders were commonly used instead of belts to keep trousers in place.

4. Vests

Vests were typically worn with three-piece suits, and they were single-breasted with a V-neck. Photo: @victoryvintage, @dafvintageshop on Instagram (modified by author). Source: UGC A three-piece suit was a staple of men’s fashion, making vests an essential component of a complete outfit. Vests were typically single-breasted with a V-neck and matched the suit jacket and trousers.

5. Outerwear

Overcoats were popular during cold weather and were made from heavy, high-quality fabric. Photo: @dafvintageshop on Instagram (modified by author) Source: UGC Overcoats were an essential part of a man’s wardrobe, particularly in colder places, during winter. Long wool coats, trench coats, and Chesterfield coats were popular choices. Many featured a belted waist for a structured silhouette, while fur collars added an extra layer of luxury. Lighter coats, such as raincoats, were worn for transitional weather.

6. Watches

Classic wristwatches were introduced, replacing pocket watches. Photo: @vintage_esstnl on Instagram Source: UGC Wristwatches became more popular in the 1920s, replacing pocket watches for convenience. Most featured a leather or metal band with a simple, elegant face. Gold and silver were common materials, exuding an air of refinement. For formal occasions, a classic pocket watch attached to a vest chain remained a stylish choice.

7. Ties

Neckties were a crucial addition to formal attire. Photo: @kirbyallison, @suittielinksbracesman on Instagram (modified by author). Source: UGC Neckties were an essential element of a man’s ensemble, often featuring bold stripes, geometric patterns, or solid colours. The Windsor knot gained popularity, allowing men to showcase their ties prominently. Bow ties were another stylish option, particularly for formal and evening wear. Silk was the preferred material, ensuring a luxurious and polished appearance.

8. Shoes

Oxford shoes were preferred for formal wear, while leather dress boots were worn for casual events. Photo: @menshoesfashion_ on Instagram (modified by author) Source: UGC Oxford shoes were the most popular choice for formal and business wear, featuring a sleek and polished design. Two-tone spectator shoes added a touch of flair, especially for casual and semiformal occasions. Leather dress boots were also commonly worn, providing both sophistication and practicality. Most shoes had a rounded toe and were made of high-quality leather for durability.

9. Casual wear

Casual wear gives a relaxed but stylish appearance. Photo: @modernfits.sneakers, @alexcosta on Instagram (modified by author) Source: UGC The 1920s men’s casual fashion included knit sweaters, polo shirts, and loose-fitting trousers for a relaxed yet stylish appearance. Golf attire, consisting of argyle sweaters and plus-fours, was particularly fashionable among wealthy men.

10. Eyewear

Eyeglasses were considered functional and fashionable and complemented most appearances. Photo: @vintageeyewearofficial on Instagram (modified by author) Source: UGC Round or oval-shaped eyeglasses were the most common styles in the 1920s. Frames were often made of tortoiseshell, gold, or silver, with thin rims for a refined appearance. Sunglasses also gained popularity, particularly those with dark lenses and lightweight metal frames.

Source: 1920s men’s fashion guide

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