The Roaring Twenties
The 1920s were a time of great change and excitement in the United States. This decade, often referred to as the “Roaring Twenties,” saw significant advancements in technology, entertainment, and culture. The end of World War I brought a sense of optimism to the country, and people were eager to embrace new experiences and lifestyles. This period also saw the rise of the Jazz Age, with its lively music and dance, and the emergence of flappers, who challenged traditional gender roles.
Fashion
Fashion was no exception to the changes of the 1920s. Women’s clothing, in particular, underwent a significant transformation. The restrictive and uncomfortable corsets of the Edwardian era were replaced by looser, more comfortable garments that allowed for greater freedom of movement. Hemlines rose above the ankle, and skirts became straighter and less voluminous. This new style, known as the “flapper dress,” was typically made from lightweight materials like chiffon or silk and featured intricate beading and embroidery.
Men’s Casual Wear
While women’s fashion underwent a revolution in the 1920s, men’s clothing remained more traditional. However, this is not to say that men’s fashion did not change at all. Casual wear, in particular, saw some interesting developments during this period. Men’s casual wear during the 1920s was very different from what we consider casual wear today.
Suits
The most common type of men’s clothing during the 1920s was the suit. Men often wore suits to work, formal events and even casual outings. However, the suits of the 1920s were much different from what we see today.
Materials
Suits were made from natural materials like wool, cotton, and linen. These materials were durable, comfortable, and allowed air to circulate, making them perfect for the warm weather.
Colors
Suits typically came in neutral colors like black, navy, gray, and brown. However, brighter colors like yellow or green were not uncommon.
Accessories
Accessories were also an important part of men’s casual wear during the 1920s. Hats, in particular, were very popular. Men often wore fedoras, bowlers, or boaters. Felt was the most common material for hats, though straw hats were also popular for the summer.
The End of an Era
The 1920s was a decade of great change and excitement in the United States. The rise of jazz music, flappers, and the new fashion trends challenged traditional values and ushered in a new era of modernism. Men’s casual wear during the 1920s was characterized by suits made from natural materials, neutral colors, and accessories like hats.
However, this era of change would not last forever. The stock market crash of 1929 marked the beginning of the Great Depression, a period of economic hardship that lasted throughout the 1930s. This period of turmoil brought an end to the Roaring Twenties and the carefree lifestyle it represented. Fashion trends would once again shift, reflecting the new realities of life during the Great Depression.