Key Influence: The Great Gatsby

A source of inspiration for the 1920s look can be found in the 1974 film adaptation of The Great Gatsby, starring Robert Redford. While the film has nothing on the novel, the costumes worn won an Academy Award and highlight the glitz and glamour of the era in all its glory.

The film also includes the regular use of cable knit jumpers in a casual environment, referencing the arrival of sportswear into men’s fashion. Sportswear has been a mainstay of the catwalk for a few seasons now and it was in the 1920s when the benefit of exercise became common knowledge.

Though the clothing of the time had none of the technical aspects of today, the humble sweater was a radical item of casual attire that perfectly exemplifies the change in attitude towards sport and off-duty dressing:

Bringing The Look Up To Date

On The Ruways: SS13

The 1920s influence was present in many of the high fashion SS13 runway shows, with the likes of Ralph Lauren, Hackett, Canali and Alexander McQueen modernising key pieces and looks from the era:

L To R: Hackett, Alexander McQueen, Canali & Ralph Lauren SS13 Menswear Collections

Men’s 1920s Inspired Lookbook

The lookbook below picks out key pieces from the 1920s and shows you how to incorporate them into a modern day outfit.

Whether you have a penchant for wide-legged trousers, pinstripe tailoring, club collars or tonal cream outfits this look doesn’t have to appear old-fashioned or out of date. The key is to balance traditional with contemporary and create your own take utilising classic menswear pieces:

Inspired By: Outfit 1

Aside from the flamboyance of the era, the twenties were also renowned for advancements in air travel, thanks to Charles Lindbergh. With that in mind, the aviator jacket has much historical significance and is the perfect piece of statement outerwear to complement the popular wide pinstripe suit.