1950s men’s fashion: the birth of modern style

The 1950s marked a significant shift in men’s fashion, blending the sharp, tailored styles of the previous decades with the emergence of more casual, youthful trends. Post-war prosperity brought about a new sense of confidence in fashion, with men’s clothing becoming more accessible and diverse. From classic suits to the rise of casual wear, the 1950s set the foundation for much of modern men’s style. Here’s a guide to the key elements of 1950s men’s fashion.

Suits: sharp, tailored, and classic

In the 1950s, men’s suits were still a staple, especially for work and formal occasions. Suits became slimmer than the broad-shouldered styles of the 1940s, with a focus on a more streamlined silhouette. Single-breasted suits with narrow lapels, tapered trousers, and minimal padding in the shoulders were the standard.

• Key features: Single-breasted jackets, narrow lapels, and tapered trousers.
• Tip: For a classic 1950s look, opt for a slim, well-tailored suit in a neutral color like navy or gray.
• Popular fabrics: Wool, flannel, and gabardine.

Trousers: slim and tapered

Trousers in the 1950s reflected the overall trend towards slimmer, more fitted clothing. High-waisted trousers with a slight taper toward the ankle were the norm. These pants were typically worn with a belt and occasionally featured pleats, although flat-front styles became increasingly popular as the decade progressed.

• Tip: Go for high-waisted, slim trousers for an authentic 1950s look. Cuffed hems were also common for added style.

Casual wear: the rise of the leisure style

While formalwear was still important, the 1950s saw the rise of casual clothing, thanks in part to Hollywood stars like James Dean and Marlon Brando. Casual wear for men included short-sleeved shirts, polo shirts, chinos, and denim jeans, with the latter becoming a symbol of youthful rebellion. Leather jackets and bomber jackets also became popular, adding a rugged edge to casual outfits.

• Popular casual pieces: Polo shirts, short-sleeved button-downs, chinos, denim jeans, and leather jackets.
• Tip: Pair slim jeans or chinos with a simple polo shirt or short-sleeved button-down for a classic casual 1950s look.

Shirts and ties: bold patterns and textures

Shirts in the 1950s were available in a variety of styles, from classic dress shirts to more casual options. Bold patterns, checks, and textures became popular for both formal and casual shirts. Ties followed a similar trend, with wider ties featuring bold patterns and textures, such as stripes and geometric designs. The skinny tie also emerged towards the end of the decade, signaling a move towards slimmer fashion.

• Tip: Try a shirt with a bold pattern or texture, paired with a wider tie for that quintessential 1950s style.
• Popular colors and patterns: Stripes, checks, and geometric prints in bold shades.

Outerwear: leather jackets and bomber jackets

Outerwear in the 1950s was a mix of classic and rugged styles. The leather jacket became iconic, especially after being popularized by Hollywood stars. Bomber jackets were another casual outerwear staple, adding a sporty yet stylish look to any outfit. For formal occasions, long wool coats and trench coats remained popular, offering a sharp, polished appearance.

• Popular styles: Leather jackets, bomber jackets, wool coats, and trench coats.
• Tip: For a casual 1950s look, a leather jacket or bomber jacket paired with denim or chinos is a perfect combination.

Footwear: polished and practical

Shoes in the 1950s ranged from sleek dress shoes to more casual options like loafers and saddle shoes. For formal wear, black or brown leather Oxfords or brogues were common. Loafers and moccasins offered a more relaxed, comfortable option for everyday wear. In casual settings, men often wore saddle shoes or canvas sneakers, particularly among younger men.

• Tip: Go for polished leather Oxfords or brogues for formal occasions, and loafers or saddle shoes for a more casual look.
• Popular styles: Oxfords, brogues, loafers, saddle shoes, and canvas sneakers.

Accessories: hats, ties, and more

Accessories in the 1950s added the finishing touches to men’s outfits. Hats were still an essential part of a man’s wardrobe, with fedoras and trilbies being the most popular styles. Skinny ties emerged toward the end of the decade, offering a more streamlined look. Pocket squares, cufflinks, and tie bars were also common accessories that added a touch of sophistication to formal wear.

• Popular accessories: Fedoras, trilbies, skinny ties, pocket squares, cufflinks, and tie bars.
• Tip: A well-chosen fedora or trilby can add a polished, classic look to any 1950s-inspired outfit.

Hairstyles and grooming: slick and neat

Men’s hairstyles in the 1950s were neat and polished, with slicked-back styles being the most common. Pompadours, side parts, and the “ducktail” hairstyle were popular, with many men using pomade or hair wax to achieve a shiny, structured look. Facial hair was rare, with clean-shaven faces being the standard.

• Tip: Use pomade or hair wax to achieve a slicked-back hairstyle with a classic side part or pompadour for that 1950s look.
• Popular grooming styles: Slicked-back hair, pompadour, ducktail hairstyle, and clean-shaven face.

Final thoughts

The 1950s were a decade of sharp tailoring and casual experimentation, blending classic formal wear with the rise of youthful, rebellious styles. From well-fitted suits to leather jackets and jeans, the 1950s laid the groundwork for many modern men’s fashion trends. Whether you’re channeling the clean-cut sophistication of a 1950s businessman or the rugged, rebellious look of a rock ‘n’ roll star, the era offers plenty of timeless style inspiration.