Achieving a 1920s Style Look

The Roaring Twenties continue to captivate our imagination. It’s probably down to that blend of rebellion and sophistication that the era embodied. A century later, the era’s sartorial legacy offers modern men a rich seam of inspiration. Screen depictions of The Great Gatsby and Peaky Blinders only reinforce that sense. Nobody’s pretending those days were a bed of roses for everyone, but you can’t deny there’s a huge helping of glamour in the looks of the day. Here’s how to give your contemporary wardrobe some touches of 1920s flair.

The Modern Three-piece

The three-piece suit defined the 1920s gentleman. Today’s interpretation maintains that sleek silhouette, but with a more relaxed approach. If you want to make a bit of a change, why not go for a slim-cut waistcoat in a complementary fabric, rather than matching it colour-for-colour? Wear it with tailored trousers and a smart jacket for a look that gives a nod to tradition while remaining thoroughly current.

High-waisted trousers help to create that characteristic 1920s look without veering into costume territory, too. Paired with a simple white shirt, you’ve got the era in a nutshell, and it works perfectly for both office and evening wear.

Luxurious Fabrics and Textures

The 1920s gentleman understood the importance of luxury, and would make sure his fabrics not only looked great but felt high-quality too. You can incorporate this mindset by choosing garments in sumptuous materials – think herringbone tweed and flannel for cooler months, or linen and light cotton for summer.

It’s important to know that texture creates depth and interest, even when the suit is monochromatic. Try a knitted tie against a plain white shirt, or a tweed cap for a simplified city look. They offer that 1920s sophistication but never appear contrived or overthought.

The Right Accessories

It’s in the details where the 1920s influence can emerge really subtly. A pocket square, an understated tie pin, or a good vintage-style watch with a quality leather strap – they’re all completely contemporary, but give noticeable connections to the past that you’re looking for.

The most iconic accessory of the age – the hat – deserves special attention. You don’t need a full-blown fedora – just pop on a modern flat cap (or a simple panama in summer) and you’ve got a hint of 1920s headwear that still looks current a century later.

Colour and Pattern

The palette of the 1920s was restrained yet rich. Navy, charcoal, burgundy, forest green and earthy browns dominated gentlemen’s wardrobes. And of course these tones remain wearable today as they form the backbone of contemporary formal fashion. By using subtle patterns such as herringbone, pinstripe or a refined check, your inspiration should be clear to anyone who knows their stuff.

 

Confidence is Key

Perhaps the most important element to borrow from the 1920s is not a garment but an attitude. There was a palpable sense of optimism after the Great War finished – flying machines, cars, ocean liners, radio, Jazz, and more liberal fashions, especially for women, all added up to a feeling that the world was about to become a better place. That’s why the decade was all about self-assurance and individuality – within the boundaries of good taste, of course. So whatever elements you choose to incorporate, wear them with conviction.

With all this in mind, you’re ready to start picking out the elements of your 1920s style wardrobe, which can still be worn today without it looking too forced. These are really timeless looks, which seem to emerge in prominence every 30 years or so (the 1980s had a proper 1920s feel to it), but never actually disappear. And it’s safe to say that the look is well and truly back on the agenda now the ’20s are back on the calendar.