Upper Class 1930s Men’s Fashion: A Detailed Look into the Stylish Era

Introduction: Upper Class 1930s Men’s Fashion – A Snapshot of Elegance

The 1930s was an era of transition for men’s fashion, particularly for those in the upper class. This was a time of economic recovery after the Great Depression, but it was also an age where luxury, refinement, and sophistication dominated the fashion choices of the affluent. The period marked the continuation of trends from the 1920s but with an added sense of formality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.

Upper-class men’s fashion in the 1930s was heavily influenced by European style, with British and American trends leading the way. High society men embraced sharp tailoring, luxurious fabrics, and a distinctive flair that set them apart from the rest of society. The clothing choices of the upper class were not just about clothing but about signaling social status and wealth.

In this article, we will explore the distinct characteristics of upper-class 1930s men’s fashion, including the key clothing items, fabrics, color schemes, accessories, and the cultural factors that shaped their wardrobes. We will also look at notable figures of the time, their fashion choices, and how they influenced the trends that still resonate today.

Historical Context of 1930s Men’s Fashion

Before diving into the specifics of upper-class men’s fashion, it’s important to understand the historical context of the 1930s. The Great Depression had a profound impact on fashion, but it also led to a revival of opulence among the wealthier classes. While many people were struggling financially, the upper class sought to project wealth through extravagant style and luxurious clothing.

The 1930s also saw a shift in men’s fashion towards more sophisticated and conservative styles compared to the roaring 1920s. The relaxed and youthful silhouettes of the previous decade gave way to more tailored and structured clothing. Fashion became more formalized, as it was not just about looking good but also about establishing one’s place in society.

During this period, the fashion industry was greatly influenced by designers such as Savile Row in London and Hickey Freeman in New York. The decade was also marked by the introduction of new fabrics and technological innovations that allowed for greater comfort and durability.

Key Elements of Upper Class 1930s Men’s Fashion

The upper-class man of the 1930s was characterized by a highly refined sense of style. Fashion was about precision, detail, and demonstrating sophistication through one’s attire. The suits, shirts, and accessories worn by wealthy men during the 1930s reflected this meticulous attention to detail.

1. Tailored Suits – The Signature of Elegance

The 1930s were defined by the three-piece suit, which became synonymous with upper-class fashion. These suits typically consisted of:

• Jacket: A well-tailored jacket with a structured silhouette that featured wide shoulders. The shoulder pad was a signature feature during this time, creating a strong, masculine frame.
• Trousers: High-waisted trousers with a crease down the center, creating a clean line. The pants were often pleated for added comfort and to provide extra room around the hips.
• Waistcoat: A vest was an essential part of the three-piece suit, adding a layer of formality and sophistication.

Fabric Choices: The upper class preferred luxurious fabrics such as tweed, flannel, tropical wool, and worsted wool. Tweed was especially popular for winter months due to its warmth, while tropical wool was favored in warmer weather for its lightweight feel.

Color Palette: The typical color palette for suits in the 1930s was conservative. Neutral colors such as charcoal grey, navy, and dark brown dominated the upper-class wardrobe. For a more luxurious touch, rich textures and subtle patterns such as houndstooth or pinstripes were incorporated.

Cuffs and Lapels: Double-breasted jackets became increasingly popular during this period, with wide lapels making a bold statement. The cuffs on trousers were a way to signal wealth and taste, often made from silk or satin.

2. Shirts and Neckwear

A crisp white dress shirt was the ultimate symbol of refinement during the 1930s. These shirts were usually made from high-quality cotton, featuring a stiff collar and double cuffs for cufflinks.

• Collars: The classic point collar and club collar were popular choices.
• Cuffs: Double cuffs, or French cuffs, were commonly worn and required cufflinks to secure them.
• Neckwear: Ties were an important part of upper-class men’s fashion, and they came in a variety of styles. The bow tie was particularly favored for formal occasions, while the long tie (usually a silk tie) was worn for business and leisure. Patterns ranged from polka dots to more intricate Paisley designs.

3. Outerwear – Coats and Overcoats

For outerwear, the upper class favored long coats and overcoats made of heavy wool or cashmere. Popular styles included:

• Chesterfield Coats: These were formal coats characterized by a sleek design, often with a velvet collar.
• Overcoats: Worn during colder months, overcoats were tailored to complement the suit underneath, featuring a single-breasted or double-breasted design.
• Fur-lined Coats: For those with immense wealth, fur-lined coats were a luxurious choice, signaling status and sophistication.

4. Accessories – Adding Refinement

Accessories played an essential role in 1930s men’s fashion. Every piece had a purpose and a function in enhancing a man’s style and social standing. The most common accessories included:

• Hats: The fedora was the quintessential 1930s hat. Men of the upper class often wore them in formal settings, with felt or wool being the most common fabric choices. Other popular styles included the bowler hat and the Panama hat for warmer climates.
• Pocket Squares: A silk pocket square was a small but important addition to any jacket pocket, often in white or patterned designs.
• Cufflinks: These were worn with French cuff shirts and made from precious metals like gold or silver. They were often engraved or had gemstones.
• Gloves: Leather gloves were worn in the colder months or during formal occasions, adding an extra layer of class to an outfit.

5. Shoes – Polished Perfection

The upper-class man of the 1930s always wore polished leather shoes, often in dark colors like black or brown. The most popular styles included:

• Oxford Shoes: A classic style, known for their closed lacing system.
• Brogues: Often worn in more casual settings, brogues were characterized by decorative perforations on the leather.
• Loafers: These were gaining popularity in the 1930s as a more comfortable, slip-on style for semi-formal wear.

Famous Influences on 1930s Men’s Fashion

Several high-profile figures in the 1930s left their mark on fashion and style, becoming fashion icons in their own right. Among these were Hollywood stars, British aristocrats, and European designers.

1. Hollywood and the Rise of Celebrity Influence

Hollywood was at its height in the 1930s, and stars like Cary Grant, Clark Gable, and Fred Astaire became the epitome of elegance and style. Their impeccable tailoring, polished shoes, and perfect posture set a standard for men’s fashion worldwide. The suits they wore were often from top designers like Savile Row in London, creating a lasting influence on global menswear.

2. The Duke of Windsor

Edward VIII, also known as the Duke of Windsor, was a major fashion influencer during this time. His penchant for wearing well-fitted suits and exotic accessories made him a style icon. His influence can still be seen in modern men’s tailoring, particularly in the double-breasted suits and wide lapels.

Table: Key Features of Upper-Class 1930s Men’s Fashion

This article offers an extensive guide to upper-class 1930s men’s fashion, from tailored suits to refined accessories, as well as the figures who influenced the fashion of the time. By understanding the details of their style choices, we can appreciate how these trends have shaped men’s fashion today.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article about Upper Class 1930s Men’s Fashion is for educational and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the fashion trends and historical context presented here are based on research and may not cover every detail or regional variation. Fashion in the 1930s was diverse and influenced by a variety of factors, including social, cultural, and economic conditions.