The Necktie Emporium History of Men’s Suits
The suit is a staple in menswear, and has been for since the early 19th century. In the Western world, the suit is the most popular option for formal events and professional workplaces alike. The modern suit is a direct derivation of the royal court dress of the 17th century, without the frills and bright colors. Throughout history the suit has gone through many changes, as much of man’s wardrobe has. From the addition of the modern slim fit suit and clip on tie to the classic cut and timeless suit, one thing is for certain, the suit has gone through many face lifts since it was first introduced.
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1920s: After World War I, the lounge suit became the popular style of choice. Also during this time, black tie and tuxedos became required for formal evening events. This was the era of Charlie Chaplin and Al Capone, and the suits of those days aren’t far off from today’s most popular styles.
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1930s: The 1930s introduced the world to an updated suit silhouette, commonly seen on actors during the golden age of cinema. The suit from the 1930s had a loose coat, as well as tapered trousers. The 1930s may be the unofficial birth year of relaxed fit suit.
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1940s: The 1940s gave birth to the grey flannel suit and other differing fabrics. Suits became slim again, and made even more popular by Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack. If you’re looking to steal a classic look, consider sticking with the 1940s aesthetic, as many new designers are offering similar styles of suits today. Don’t forget to pick up a clip on tie from NecktieEmporium.com.
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1950s: Not much of a difference from the 1940s, but style definitely improved during the 50s. People began to dress up for occasions again, and a wider pleated-front trouser returned to the spotlight. The 1950s also made denim jeans more popular, so suits were adopted for going out and for professional businessmen. Think Cary Grant and Dean Martin.
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1960s: Hello skinny suits! With the popularity of the Beatles and Peter Sellers, the slim fit suit became the fit of choice during the 60s. Skinny ties, slim fit trousers, and fitted jackets reigned supreme during the 60s, and helped create the Mod style that is often emulated today.
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1970s: The 70s brought some interesting styles for men. Suits we’re worn a little looser, and without care. Think Mick Jagger and David Bowie, with their interesting and artistic approach to wearing a suit. Many men chose to go sans clip on tie or any tie at all during the 70s, but wore the suit with flamboyancy and liberation from the norm.
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1980s: The suit becomes a little unstructured during the 80s. Lining was often left out of the suit, and the deconstructed suit jacket was born. Linen and other soft fabrics we’re used widely by suit designers, and everything was a little more relaxed.
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1990s: Minimalism makes its way back to the suiting world, and the classic black suit, white tie, black clip on tie look reigned supreme again.
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2000s: Fitted, classic, and handsome, the 2000s seem to be following the same suiting trends of the 40s, 50s and the 60s.
Suits have changed from decade to decade, but they never went out of style. If you’re a man of style, then chances are you own a suit or often wear a suit. What decade most reflects your preferred style of suiting? Don’t forget to make your suit look even better with a clip on tie or traditional necktie from NecktieEmporium.com. Find the perfect clip on tie or neckwear accessory today!
