Beyond the Suit: Why Men’s Fashion is More Diverse Than You Think

I often hear comments suggesting that men's fashion is much more restricted than women's, that there are hardly any options, and that the options available are always the same. But… has it always been this way? Was there ever a time when men’s fashion had as much or even more prominence than women’s? Why does the focus seem to be on women’s fashion? Is this situation changing with the current need to break away from traditional gender roles? 

In this post, we’ll explore how men’s fashion has evolved over the years, why it has been perceived as more limited, and how it is currently trying to break away from this reality.

From Royalty to Revolution: A Journey Through Time

The Early Centuries: Opulence and Extravagance

During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, men's fashion was marked by opulence and diversity. Men of high society wore elaborate garments adorned with lace, velvet, and brocade. Outfits were complex, and accessories like jewelry and elaborate hats were common. High-ranking men wore ruffled collars, richly embroidered jackets, and voluminous trousers. This period was marked by a fascination with ostentation and complexity in men's clothing, reflecting a social hierarchy and wealth.

It is interesting to think about how often we believe we are the pioneers of certain trends, such as the current popularity of men’s jewelry. In recent years, brands like TwoJeys have put men’s jewelry on the map by designing something that seemed nonexistent in the market: men’s jewelry with fun designs that convey youth, playfulness, and trendiness. However, a look at history reveals that men’s jewelry was already in use during the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries.

The 18th Century: The Rise of the Tailored Suit

The 18th century saw the emergence of the modern tailored suit. During this time, men's clothing was heavily influenced by European aristocracy and the silk industry. Tailors in London and Paris created bespoke suits that fitted the body closely, showcasing intricate details and craftsmanship. 

The three-piece suit began to take shape as a reaction of European fashion shifting towards less ornate style. The focus on fit, quality fabric, and attention to detail (rather than flamboyance) persists today, making the 18th-century tailored suit a precursor to the sophisticated attire worn by gentlemen around the world. 

Early & Mid-20th Century: From the Victorian Era to the Age of Innovation and Rebellion

At the turn of the 20th century, men were gradually breaking free from the grip of Victorian fashion, characterized by top-hats, frock coats, and pocket watches. This departure marked a significant shift from the elaborate and restrictive dressing of the time. The influence of the Georgian period, which saw men adorned in feathers, pantyhose, and high heels, was slowly fading. The evolving men's fashion reflected a transition toward a more practical and less ornate style, paving the way for new sartorial expressions in the years to come.

The 1920s saw post-war prosperity leading to a transition in men's fashion, as English influences brought casual refinement to American styles and the 30s, marked by economic challenges, spurred a shift towards simplicity and practicality, with fabric rationing influencing men's attire. In the 50s, men's fashion reflected traditional American values, showcasing uniformity alongside the emergence of rebellious expressions through the greaser subculture.

*The greaser subculture emerged in the 1950s in the United States, particularly among working-class youths. Greasers were known for their distinct style, which included fitted white and black t-shirts, ringer t-shirts, baseball shirts, leather jackets, bomber jackets... This subculture gained prominence through iconic figures such as Elvis Presley, Marlon Brando, and James Dean, and was characterized by a rebellious attitude, slicked-back hairstyles, and a connection to rock and roll music. The greaser subculture represented a counter to the prevalent societal norms of the time.

On the other hand, the mid-20th century, particularly the 1960s and 1970s, brought a revolutionary shift towards adventurous and expressive trends, featuring slim and flared trousers, vibrant colors, and casual menswear, reflecting an era of change and spontaneity.

The Late 20th and Early 21st Centuries: Streetwear and Global Influence

In the 1980s and 1990s, streetwear emerged as a major influence on men’s fashion. Brands like Levi’s, Nike, and Tommy Hilfiger began to shape men’s clothing with casual, sporty designs that resonated with a younger audience. The 90s was about rejecting previous decades’ trends, and as a result, the decade championed casual clothing influenced by grunge, hip-hop, and rave subcultures.

The turn of the 21st century saw a blending of high fashion with streetwear, exemplified by designers like Virgil Abloh for Louis Vuitton and Alessandro Michele for Gucci, who pushed the boundaries of traditional menswear. 

So... What are the Factors Contributing to Perceived Constraint in Men's Fashion ??

Additionally, unlike women's fashion, which often celebrated diversity and change, men's fashion was traditionally expected to be functional and understated, further contributing to its perceived restriction. The societal emphasis on practicality and uniformity in men's attire has played a significant role in shaping the historical perception of limited options in men's fashion. This, combined with the prevalent focus and investment in marketing and design innovation for women's clothing, has resulted in a prevailing perception of constraint within the realm of men's fashion.

A New Era for Men’s Fashion 

Today, men's fashion is undergoing a notable transformation, embracing a more inclusive approach to style that challenges traditional gender norms. Designers are increasingly incorporating diverse elements into men’s fashion, such as experimental fabrics and a focus on unisex clothing, reflecting a shift towards empowering individual expression and breaking away from rigid gender roles.

Furthermore, the fusion of streetwear with high fashion has revitalized men's clothing. Contemporary designers are boldly experimenting with silhouettes, patterns, and colors that were once considered unconventional for men, injecting dynamism and diversity into the realm of men's fashion and representing a more inclusive approach to personal style.

Men’s fashion has evolved significantly from its opulent origins to the streamlined, formal styles of the past and the innovative trends of today. While historical constraints have influenced perceptions of men’s fashion as more limited, contemporary trends are breaking down these barriers. As the fashion industry continues to embrace diversity and inclusivity, the future of men’s fashion looks increasingly vibrant and varied. 

Addressing the question "Was there ever a time when men’s fashion had as much or even more prominence than women’s?" hints at a time yet to come, where men's fashion will rise in significance beyond comparison, creating a vision of equality and appeal in the fashion realm.