Wool overcoats were an essential part of 1940s fashion men especially for cold weather. These oversized coats were straight or boxy, and came down to the waist. They also often had Raglan cuts, with long flaps over the buttons. After wool restrictions were lifted, double-breasted coats became popular. They were worn with a belted waist, and came in tan, plaid, or tweed fabrics.
Men’s clothing during the 1940s had a number of unique characteristics. The pants themselves were made of sturdy cotton twill, gabardine, or wool. Generally, they were paneled with a 3″ waist band, and the leg openings were usually wide. In addition, many ties featured curly or geometric designs. Colors favored during the 1940s included brown, tan, and hunter green. Most men wore a matching trouser and shirt set, and a solid-color tie kept them looking well-dressed in public settings.
Utility suits were another staple of 1940s fashion men wardrobe. These boxy jackets were often loose-fitting and came in brown or navy color. Utility clothes were also heavily influenced by 1930s tweeds and plaids. Bright colors and patterns were also popular, to contrast the utilitarian pieces. Unlike today, rationing ended after 1945, allowing for a significant amount of change in 1940s mens fashion.
Shirts in the 1940s were still formal, but collars were now softer and broader. Older men would wear stiff collars, while younger men would wear soft collars. They were also made with collar stays, which ensured a clean-looking collar. Furthermore, starching was no longer a necessary part of formal dress shirts.
Hats were another staple of 1940s mens fashion. Although they were less common among young men after the war, they were still widely worn by older men. Hats in the 1940s were most often made of felt. During the winter, men would wear flat caps, and in summer they would wear wide-brimmed straw hats.
Zoot suits were controversial during the war, but they became popular after the war. Big hats, double-pleated pants, and wider ties became popular for post-war men. Despite their controversial appearance, many men wore them on a daily basis. Most suits were made of thick wool, worsted wool, or a synthetic rayon blend.
Casual shoes were also popular in the 1940s. Most men chose a pair of brown and white Oxford shoes. These shoes were comfortable, but they were also more formal. The toe shape of these shoes was similar to those in the 1930s. The heel was also higher. Plain black or brown shoes were also common.
Trousers were also a staple of 1940s fashion men wardrobe. Trousers were cut wider and more full. A few buttons, including a belt, added an extra touch of panache. Boxy, roomy coats were also a staple in the 1940s. After the war, the high waisted trouser was fashionable. In addition, trousers featured a longer cuff. This trend lasted well into the 1950s.
1940s fashion men was utilitarian, but also fun and leisure-oriented. Many of the men of the 1940s spent much of their lives in uniform. The British Army Uniform, which most men wore, was made from wool in shades of brown and khaki. The aim was to keep the men warm in cold climates while making it easier to move around. This style was also designed to remain comfortable when wet.
Hairstyles in the 1940s were similar to those of the 1930s. Some men shaved their heads, while others continued shaving for military purposes. Eyewear was also similar to that of the 1930s, with wire-frame spectacles, horn spectacles, and rimless glasses. Older gentlemen usually wore pince-nez sunglasses.
Blazers were also popular in the 1940s. Double-breasted blazers were paired with collared shirts and ties. Many men also wore a necktie, which was a popular accessory. They could even wear a scarf in their breast pocket. Another hallmark of 1940s fashion men was their choice of necktie colour. Unlike today, neckties and scarves could be combined with a collared shirt.
Men’s clothing styles reflected the change in social class. After the war, men no longer had the same strict codes as women. This made their clothes more comfortable. In the summer, men even wore Hawaiian shirts all day long. Moreover, rigid dress codes were impossible to enforce after the war.
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