1940s Men’s fashion

The 1940s were a decade of dramatic change, and men’s fashion reflected both the restrictions of wartime and the renewed optimism that followed.

At the beginning of the decade, the broad-shouldered silhouette of the late 1930s continued: structured jackets, high-waisted trousers and strong, masculine proportions remained fashionable. Double-breasted suits, wide lapels and generous trouser legs were still common before wartime shortages began to reshape everyday clothing.

During the war years, fabric rationing and government regulations encouraged simpler, more economical designs. Suits became less elaborate, jackets were cut with fewer details, and trousers were often made without cuffs or excessive fullness. Military uniforms also had a strong influence on civilian dress, while practical sportswear, knitted garments and casual shirts became increasingly important.

After 1945, restrictions gradually disappeared and menswear became fuller and more expressive again. Double-breasted jackets returned, lapels widened, trousers regained volume, and by the late 1940s the fashionable male silhouette was noticeably broader and more substantial. The American “Bold Look”, introduced in 1948, emphasized wide shoulders, broad lapels and a confident, powerful appearance.

At the same time, casual clothing was gaining ground. Sports shirts, open collars, knitwear and relaxed separates pointed toward the increasingly informal menswear of the 1950s.

A year-by-year journey through men’s fashion of the 1940s, based on authentic fashion illustrations, advertisements and clothing catalogues from the period.