1920s Gangster Fashion and Its Influence on Modern Menswear
As it is often stated, modern men’s fashion is deeply rooted in tradition and history. Designers, editors, and stylists alike have consistently drawn inspiration from past eras, leaving no decade untouched.
Men’s fashion as we know it today can trace much of its origin to the 1920s. Marked as an era of gangsters, the style of the time came to be known as the 1920s gangster costume. This iconic look continues to inspire menswear today, with only minor updates to fabric and fit.
1920s gangster fashion typically included:
– Dark suit jackets, often striped, but rarely black
– Matching vests and pants made from the same fabric as the jacket
– Fedora hats, either white or black band
– Contrasting shirt, tie, shoes, and suspenders for added style
– And of course, a signature cigar in the mouth
A Rundown on 1920s Mobster Fashion
Gangsters in the 1920s took pride in a complete, head-to-toe look. These well-dressed men became the fashion leaders of their time.
Gangster Fashion For Men: Suits
Suits were the essential part of 1920s men's fashion. Whether for events, mornings, or parties, suits were the go-to fashion statement. Initially worn primarily by gangsters, suits later became a symbol of pride for all men. Stripes and plaid patterns were particularly popular.
Material and Fit
– Suits were typically made of thick wool tweed, heavier than today's versions
– Jackets came in single- or double-breasted forms, with three or four front buttons
– The top button was placed near the heart to accommodate notch lapels
– Lapel height distinguished the 1920s suit from those of other eras
– Suit fits evolved from slim in the early 1920s to boxy by the 1930s, though today's fashion favors the slim fit again
Gangster Fashion For Men: Pants or Trousers
– Designed with single pleats at the top and sharp front creases
– Featured side slits and welted back pockets with a single button closure
– Made of wool-based flannel, making them heavier than today’s options
– Pants were ankle-length, narrowing early in the decade and widening later on
Gangster Fashion For Men: Vests or Waistcoats
Three-piece suits were iconic, with waistcoats worn between jackets and pants, unlike today’s common two-piece suit styles.
– Made of lighter materials than jackets, with full-body coverage and a V-neck
– Wearing a vest meant no shirt was visible between vest and pants
– Vests were often lighter in color and added warmth during winter
Gangster Fashion For Men: Shirts
Shirts were essential under vests and represented a key style element.
– Available in vertical stripes and a mix of colors: green, blue, tan, lilac, yellow, sage green, pink
– Featured various collars: club, pointed, spread, and buttoned-down
– Some shirts had detachable collars, like the mandarin collar shirt
Gangster Fashion For Men: Accessories
Accessories in the 1920s were both stylish and practical, offering many ways to complete an outfit.
Ties: Ties came in loud, vibrant colors. When paired with pocket squares and lapel pins, they added flair to formal wear.
Hats: Hat choice often reflected social class. The middle class favored fedoras, while the upper class leaned toward Homburgs.
Shoes: Shoe fashion saw a big change with the introduction of two-tone styles. These artistic designs were a hallmark of the jazz age and a sign of sophistication.
The fashion of the 1920s still holds significant influence over today's menswear. The changes made during that era remain embedded in modern fashion trends. If you're looking to recreate a 1920s gangster look today, finding the right source for authentic clothing is key. Styling it well is essential, and getting it right makes all the difference.
