vintage 1950s Men's Fashion

Vintage 1950s Men's Fashion

Overcoats

          Thanks to improvements in heating and cooling in public spaces, homes, and cars as well as more and more men driving instead of walking to work, the need for heavy overcoats disappeared.  Outerwear was now another fashion accessory, something with personality, style, and design all on its own. They also became lighter with thinner or no lining needed to stay warm for the short distances to and from the car.

          For business attire, a knee-length overcoat, top-coat or raincoat provided all the protection a man needed. Following the major fashion trends of the 1950s, men’s overcoats were also textured or had big patterns. These bolder looking coats added the missing personality from the conservative grey flannel suit look. They had high military collars, straight hanging lines, slash pockets, and notched lapels. In the early years, the raglan sleeve coat helped emphasize the natural sloped shoulder and reduced bulk up top.

          Other coat styles could be worn with suits as well. For men traveling by motorcycle or topless sports cars, a leather or suede bomber jacket was the best for wind protection.