Great Gatsby Attire For Men

Cracking the Code: A Deep Dive into Great Gatsby Men's Attire

The roaring twenties. An era of jazz, flapper dresses, and a certain enigmatic millionaire named Jay Gatsby. While the story itself is captivating, the visual spectacle of The Great Gatsby remains iconic, particularly the men's fashion. This article delves deep into the sartorial choices of the era, providing a comprehensive guide to recreating the look for modern men, covering everything from suits and shirts to accessories and footwear. We'll explore the nuances of Gatsby style, ensuring you can confidently channel your inner Jay Gatsby.

Understanding the Gatsby Aesthetic: More Than Just a Suit

The Great Gatsby's aesthetic isn't just about throwing on a suit and calling it a day. It's about understanding the underlying principles of 1920s menswear: elegance, sophistication, and a touch of rebellious flair. This era marked a shift from the more formal Edwardian styles, embracing looser fits, bolder colors, and a newfound sense of confidence in personal expression. Think less stuffy Victorian and more relaxed yet refined. This wasn't just about clothes; it was a statement of wealth, status, and individual style.

The Cornerstone: The Suit

The suit forms the heart of any Great Gatsby inspired outfit. While the modern slim-fit suit is tempting, authentic 1920s tailoring differs significantly. Key features to look for include:

High-waisted trousers: These trousers sit significantly higher on the waist than modern styles, often with a noticeable drop in the front. Look for high-waisted trousers with a relaxed, slightly wide leg. Avoid overly skinny or tapered fits.
Double-breasted jackets: The double-breasted jacket was a hallmark of the era, conveying a sense of opulence and power. Look for jackets with wide lapels and a slightly longer length than modern suits. Single-breasted jackets were also popular, but double-breasted options are more evocative of the period.
Wide lapels: Wide, peaked lapels are crucial to achieving the authentic Gatsby look. These add a touch of drama and sophistication to the suit.
Shoulder pads: While not as extreme as later decades, shoulder pads provided structure and shape, contributing to the overall silhouette.
High button stance: The buttons on the jacket were typically positioned higher than modern suits, accentuating the high waistline of the trousers.
Fabric: High-quality fabrics were essential. Think luxurious materials like worsted wool, cashmere, or even silk for a truly opulent look. Rich colors such as navy, charcoal grey, burgundy, and even lighter shades like cream or beige were popular choices.

Shirts & Accessories: Layering for Luxury

The suit is just the foundation. The true Gatsby look relies on thoughtful layering and accessories to complete the ensemble.

Dress shirts: These were typically made from high-quality cotton or silk, often featuring subtle patterns like stripes or checks. The collars were typically wider and more structured than modern shirts, often with a high collar style. French cuffs with cufflinks are a must-have.
Suspenders: While belts were worn, suspenders were a more prevalent and stylish choice, particularly with high-waisted trousers. They offer a clean, sophisticated look.
Pocket squares: A neatly folded pocket square adds a touch of refinement and personality. Experiment with different patterns and fabrics to coordinate with your suit and tie.
Ties: Ties were typically wider than modern ties, often featuring bold patterns or textures. Silk ties were the most popular choice. Consider neckties with repeating patterns or geometric designs.
Cufflinks: Cufflinks were a staple of men's fashion in the 1920s, and they're a must-have for a true Gatsby look. Choose elegant designs made from precious metals or interesting materials.
Hats: Fedora hats were extremely popular during the era, adding a touch of sophistication and mystery. A fedora is a perfect complement to a Gatsby-inspired suit. Consider a felt fedora in a neutral color like black, grey, or brown.
Overcoats: For cooler weather, a long overcoat, perhaps in a luxurious fabric like cashmere or wool, would complete the ensemble. Pea coats or Chesterfield coats are excellent choices.

Footwear: Stepping into the Era

The right footwear is essential to complete the 1920s look. Avoid modern athletic or casual shoes; instead, opt for:

Oxford shoes: These classic lace-up shoes were a staple of men's footwear in the 1920s. Look for shoes in polished leather, preferably in black or brown. The shoes should be relatively sleek and formal.
Spats: While not essential, spats (cloth gaiters that cover the instep and ankle of a shoe) add a distinct touch of 1920s flair, especially with more formal outfits.

Colors and Patterns: Embracing the Boldness

The 1920s embraced a wider range of colors and patterns than previous eras. While muted tones were prevalent, bolder choices were not uncommon, reflecting a more confident and expressive style:

Navy blue: A timeless and sophisticated choice for suits and overcoats.
Charcoal grey: Another classic neutral that complements a variety of accessories.
Burgundy: Adds a touch of richness and depth to the overall look.
Cream or beige: Lighter shades were also popular, particularly for summer suits.
Stripes and checks: Subtle patterns in shirts and ties added personality and visual interest.
Geometric patterns: Art Deco influenced geometric patterns appeared in ties and other accessories.

Hair and Grooming: The Finishing Touches

The Gatsby look isn't just about clothing; it's about the whole package. Hair and grooming played a crucial role in completing the look:

Hair: Neatly styled hair, often parted on the side, was the norm. Pomade was used to keep the hair in place and achieve a slick, polished look. Short back and sides with a slightly longer top was very common.
Mustache: Mustaches were popular, often neatly trimmed and waxed.
Clean-shaven or well-groomed beard: While mustaches were common, a clean-shaven face or a well-groomed beard were also acceptable.

Modern Adaptations: Balancing Authenticity with Contemporary Style

While striving for authenticity, it's important to remember that the modern man needs a look that suits his lifestyle. You can incorporate key elements of Gatsby attire into your wardrobe without looking like you've stepped straight out of a period drama. Here are some modern adaptations:

Slim-fit variations: Instead of overly baggy trousers, consider a slimmer fit that still retains the high waistline.
Modern fabrics: Use modern, high-quality fabrics that offer comfort and durability.
Subtle patterns: Choose subtle patterns rather than overly bold ones to maintain a contemporary feel.
Accessorize selectively: Choose a few key accessories to complement your outfit rather than overloading it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Where can I find authentic 1920s clothing?

A: Finding truly authentic 1920s clothing can be challenging. Vintage stores and online auction sites may offer some options, but it's often more practical to look for modern interpretations that capture the essence of the style.

Q: Is it necessary to wear a fedora?

A: A fedora is highly recommended to enhance the authentic look, but it is not absolutely essential. A well-chosen hat adds to the character but isn't mandatory.

Q: How can I achieve the 'slicked-back' hairstyle?

A: Use a high-quality pomade to achieve the desired effect. Experiment with different products to find one that suits your hair type.

Conclusion: Embracing the Timeless Elegance of Gatsby Style

The Great Gatsby's enduring appeal lies not only in its captivating narrative but also in its unforgettable style. By understanding the nuances of 1920s menswear and adapting them to a modern context, you can create a look that's both stylish and respectful of this iconic era. Remember, it's not simply about wearing the clothes; it's about embodying the spirit of confidence, sophistication, and refined elegance that defined the roaring twenties. Embrace the era, tailor it to yourself, and step into the world of Gatsby with effortless charm.