Gents vintage Fashion

1940’s Fashion

For men, the wartime austerity resulted in the Utility suit, with its distinct lack of pleats, sleeve buttons and patch pockets. For men and women, accessories such as hats, gloves, scarves, cravats and waistcoats were vital to lift their rather drab mend-and-make-do outfits.

A man in uniform is always a pleasing sight for the ladies, so why not wear an Army or RAF uniform from the period – in keeping with Goodwood’s WWII RAF history?

1950’s Fashion

In the 1950’s men opted for sleek hairstyles, narrow and sharper cuts for their suits, moved away from hats, embraced casual knitwear, khaki trousers and blazers. The influence of pop culture had a pronounced fashion influence – the anti-authoritarian Brylcreem-enhanced Teddy Boy burst onto the scene, rock ‘n’ roll reverberated through the fashion world and the Mods emerged.

Why not try a debonair look by wearing a blazer, turn-up flannels, accompanied by a cravat, a Panama or Homburg hat; and don’t forget a touch of Brylcreem - of course. Accessorise with a rolled-up umbrella, cigarette holder or eye-glass and finish off a top-class and sophisticated look that Cary Grant or Terry Thomas would be familiar with.

1960’s Fashion

Suits drifted away from pale, toned shades, menswear was now bright and colorful. It included frills and cravats, wide ties and trouser straps, leather boots and even collarless jackets. Ties were worn even five inches wide, with crazy prints, stripes and patterns.

For that dandified look opitomised by Brian Jones, try wearing a crushed velvet or stripped double-breasted suit, brocade waistcoat and a shirt with frilled collar. In the late 60’s the androgynous hippie look was in style. Both men and women wore frayed bell-bottomed jeans, tie-dyed shirts, workshirts, and headbands.

Perhaps you might prefer a mechanic’s white cloth overall (with charcoal for oil stains), leather boots, and accompanied by a flat cap, leather belt and clockwork stopwatches.

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