Know How to Best Style Your Look In the Gangster Clothing

In 1920, the ways people dressed became the marking of who and what they were. What someone wore used to define their status in society; it was a way to represent what all wealth and prosperity could afford them in 1920.

However, the men's fashion wear of the 1920s still has a huge influence on today’s fashion world. It gives us a sense of classic style and luxury that we can associate with the decade. The early and late 20s witnessed a great change in menswear, as it was the time when the modern world's formal uniform was cemented in history. This era was described as the era of gangsters—1920s gangsters—where the men controlled the illegal distribution of alcohol in certain sections of large cities. Thus, for the same reason, most respected people initially avoided this choice of dressing. However, by the 1940s, it became a choice of style for many.

1920s Gangster Costume

Dressing up in authentic 1920s fashion is not as easy as it seems. There is more to it than just suits and hats. Here's a breakdown of the 20s outfits you might want to know:

1. Gangster Double Breasted Suit

The must-have for all men in the 1920s was a double-breasted striped gangster suit jacket with wide lapels. With 3 to 4 buttons that came up quite high on the jacket and flat front trousers with narrow legs, these suits were quite fashionable.

2. Gangster Pinstripe Suit

To mark special occasions and achieve an elegant look, chalk-bold pinstripe vested 3-piece suits were ideal. Featuring a 2-button closure, 2 rear flap pockets, 4 detailed cuff buttons, and a notched lapel finish, these cotton-blend suits were staples. Pleated pants with adjustable waist tabs and zipper fly closures added to the foundation of the attire.

3. Gangster Zoot Suit

This iconic clothing style of the time featured stretched shoulder tailored jackets with vents, superior lining, and Italian cotton pocketing. Single-pleated trousers were finely designed and half-lined to the knee.

4. Gangster Shirt

From basic white shirts with button-down collars to patterned French cuff shirts in dull tones, 20s gangster outfits offered a variety of shirts to complete the authentic look.

Gangster Clothing Accessories

Clothing means nothing until it makes you look lively—and accessories provide that sharp edge. 1920s mobsters knew exactly how to elevate their flamboyant attire with eye-catching accessories. Common accessories included bow ties, top hats, neckties, pocket squares, boutonnieres, and formal jewelry.

1. Gangster Shoes

Two-toned, brown and white spectator shoes were iconic in 1920s fashion. Shoes played a crucial role in complementing and completing a man’s outfit.

2. Gangster Hat

While most men of the 1920s preferred bowler hats, gangsters opted for fedoras. Available in black, white, tan, burgundy, and blue, these 4-inch tall hats featured wrap-around bases. Fedora caps were designed to set gangsters apart from gentlemen. The black homburg, often associated with the godfather figure, emerged as a fantastic fashion choice. In summer, Panama hats made of heavy wool felt were popular among wealthier individuals.

Wear your hat slightly tilted to the left to flaunt that gangster flair.

3. Gangster Ties

Neckties were worn in contrast to shirt colors. For instance, a white shirt would pair with a dark-colored tie that coordinated with the suit. Jewel-tone ties with small patterns were especially popular among 20s gangsters.

4. Suspenders

Suspenders were more of a necessity than a fashion statement. Made of elastic-blend fabric, they matched the color scheme of the bow tie or necktie. While belts have become more common today, suspenders still offer a classier and more fitted appearance. Initially, suspenders were considered undergarments worn under jackets and waistcoats but over shirts.

5. Pocket Square

Also known as a handkerchief, the pocket square is a square piece of cloth used as a fashion accessory, placed in the suit’s left heart pocket.

6. Pocket Watch

A chain pocket watch was a refined accessory worn by men in the 20s. Typically placed in a pants pocket and attached to a belt loop, it added subtle sophistication while ensuring the watch stayed secure