1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

1930s Mens Summer Suit GuideSummer is in full swing and for many men heading to vintage picnics, gatsby lunches, and ice cream socials it is a time to put on their best vintage summer suits.

This was the case recently when my husband and I attended an afternoon tea party aboard the 1936 Queen Mary Ship.  I was wearing an authentic 1930′s dress so it seemed fitting that my husband should match me. Since he is 6’2, original vintage clothing for men just don’t fit him. Luckily it is very easy to look vintage with new clothes from a few select clothiers on and off line.

A 1930s Summer Suit

1930s Mens Summer Suit GuideNothing say summer like a white linen suit. Match with a bow tie and straw hat you can fit into any time period between 1900 and 1940. For starters we found a pair of nice white linen pants from our local department store. We had more luck at high end stores than the cheaper ones, probably because linen is a specialty care fabric. Linen is very cool and summer friendly but watch out for the washing machine- it must be dry cleaned only.

1930s Mens Summer Suit GuideNext came a white dress shirt with french cuffs and a set of art deco cuff links. Shirt cuffs and collars can really show off your knowledge of period attire. Prior to 1920 most shirts came with separate collars which were either rounded such as the Club Collar or were pointed, like modern dress shirts.  By the 1930′s almost all shirts had attached collars. Shirts could be plain light colors or striped with contrasting white cuffs and collar.

Next came a nice vest. Vests were not necessary in the 1930′s. They were worn by most middle an upper class men while lower class men preferred a shirt only- no vest and rarely a suit jacket. Vests often matched their suits but it wasn’t a requirement anymore.

1930s Mens Summer Suit GuideSuit Jackets often matched the pants and were purchased as a set. However since the 1920′s casual summer clothes became increasingly common so men mixed and matched their suits and pants. Light colors were still preferred- white, ivory, pink, and blues. Solids as well as stripes were equally common. Although my husband intended to wear a white linen suit coat for our event he quickly changed his mind when we found a 1970′s multi striped sport coat. It was so unique and so summery that we just knew it would look great. Since men’s suits haven’t changed dramatically in over 100 years it didn’t matter that his coat was vintage 1970′s instead of 1930′s. For the most authentic 1930s men’s clothing see what is in stock at J. Peterman.

1930s Mens Hats and Shoes

1930s Mens Summer Suit GuideIf you were to only wear one item to your next vintage summer party it must be a boater hat. These thick woven straw hats  with flat tops and flat brims were common summer wear for men in the 1920′s and 1930′s. Match the hat band to your suit, shirt or pocket square for some extra vintage style. A second choice would be a light straw panama hat or straw fedora (both are very similar to each other.)

For shoes, light colored shoes to match your outfit are ideal. Since we were attending a dance event my husband wore Aris Allen white dance shoes. Had this been an outdoor party he would have worn a pair brown brogues (or oxfords) or perhaps some even more casual boat shoes (like loafers.) Read more about 1930s Mens shoes here.

1930′s Bowtie

1930s Mens Summer Suit GuideI love bow ties. They make mens look so much more vintage than a plain necktie. Although either neck wear would have been worn the bow tie is not something to be forgotten. If you really want to impress your friends just learn to tie one yourself. The look of a self tied bowtie is far more vintage then pre tied bowties. Just be sure to go wild with your choice of colors and pattern just as men did in the 1930′s.

Where to Shop

Paul Frererick Mens Style Probably the best source for new clothes with vintage styling.

Jos. A Bank - Another favorite for quality men’s clothing that can look vintage.

MeagSuits - A modern  suit store with hundreds of suits that could easily be vintage 30′s. Look at the double breasted suits for the most 1930′s style.

1930′s Men’s Clothing shop- My collection of 30′s inspired suits, hats, shoes and more from around the web. See also 1930′s Mens Shoes shop page.

 

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

1930s Men 3 Button Glen Plaid Suit (R1222)

$279.00

This 1930's style suit create a wide shoulder, tapered waist look ideal of the 30's. Round Suit, 3 Button, Glen Plaid Pattern, Double Vents, Pleated Pants. Poly Rayon. Full... [Read more]

Store: WomenSuits.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Executive 3-Button Wool Herringbone Sportcoat

$138.00

1930s Day Suit Sportcoat. The patterns to update your wardrobe this season are these rich yet subtle, mini herringbone weaves. With 3-button center vent and natural shoulde... [Read more]

Store: Jos. A. Bank

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Men's 3 Piece Peak Lapel Suit (M1265)

$323.00

2 Piece Suit with Peak Lapels and Side Vents. Very 30's with the peak lapels and summer friendly single row of buttons. [Read more]

Store: Womensuits.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

1930's Traveler Washable Wool Herringbone Pleated Pants

$111.00

Made of lightweight wool that's machine washable, dryable and wrinkle resistant, they're a must in every wardrobe for the 1930's and today. [Read more]

Store: Jos. A. Bank

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Wrinkle-Resistant Linen Cuffed Pants

$39.98

Double reverse pleats, extended waist tab, on-seam pockets, back besom pocket. [Read more]

Store: Jos. A. Bank

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Mens White Linen Pants

$34.00

Solid linen pant features a button/zip fly closure, slash front pockets and belt loops. [Read more]

Store: Sean John

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Pin Stripe Fedora Hat - Gangster and Zoot Suit Costume Accessories

$9.07

Pin Stripe Fedora - Hats - This classy and sleek Pin Stripe Fedora is the perfect accessory for a 30's-50's detective or Hollywood movie star costume! Here's lookin' at you... [Read more]

Store: Costume Craze

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Double-Breasted Raincoat

$475.00

A classic in cotton/polyester, treated to repel rain. Belted. Raglan sleeves. Full length with zip-out liner. [Read more]

Store: Jos. A. Bank

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Double-Breasted Raincoat

$98.00

A classic in cotton/polyester, treated to repel rain. Belted. Raglan sleeves. Full length with zip-out liner. Dry clean. Imported. [Read more]

Store: Jos. A. Bank

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Air Colton Wingtip Shoe by Cole Haan

$198.00

Combination canvas/leather uppers. Full leather lining. Leather stacked heel, rubber sole. Nike Air Technology in heel for cushion and support. Imported. [Read more]

Store: Jos. A. Bank

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

FRYE Men's James Wingtip Oxford

$112.58

A distressed leather upper gives this handsome lace-up from Frye comfortable, lived-in character. Accented with both classic and contemporary detailing, the James features ... [Read more]

Store: Endless.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Stacy Adams - Dayton - Wingtip 1930s Inspired Mens Shoes

$75.00

Contemporary three eyelet wingtip; Durable synthetic sole; Product measurements were taken using size 9. Please note that measurements may vary by size. [Read more]

Store: Zappos.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

1930's Mens Shoes: Stacy Adams Men's Madison Cap Toe Woven Oxford

$119.95

Bring classic style to work attire with Madison from Stacy Adams. A cap-toe will complement slacks and suiting, while breathable leather linings and a padded leather insole... [Read more]

Store: Endless.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Dockers Men's Cap Toe Oxford Shoes- 1930s Style

$49.99

This classic style from Dockers features a smooth leather upper with a cap toe, while the padded collar and insole, along with the rubber outsole deliver all-day comfort. [Read more]

Store: Endless.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Capezio Men's Wing Tip Theatrical and Dance Oxford

$100.00

This theatrical oxford from Capezio features elegant wing tips with a perforated trim, a stacked leather heel, and full leather linings. Taps can also be attached to this v... [Read more]

Store: Endless.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

1930s Mens Formal Shoes- Stacy Adams Men's Concorde Oxford

$79.95

Give evening attire a dose of dashing style with Concorde from Stacy Adams. The patent leather upper features perforations at the toe. Breathable leather linings and a padd... [Read more]

Store: Endless.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Glen Plaid Wool Flannel Suit

$250.00

The warm, brushed softness of Super 100's wool flannel tailored meticulously for maximum comfort and an optimal fit. [Read more]

Store: Paul Fredrick MenStyle

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Jaxon Mini Glen Plaid Ivy Cap

$14.95

Jaxon Mini Glen Plaid Ivy Cap [Read more]

Store: The Village Hat Shop

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Christys' Glen Plaid Ivy Cap - Brown

$64.00

Made in Italy. Christys' of London headwear has a traditional and classic look that never goes out of style. The dapper flat cap is apart of the new Italian Cut & Sew C... [Read more]

Store: The Village Hat Shop

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

John Blair Double Breasted Cardigan

$29.99

A traditional, handsome choice for the cool-weather season, our toasty-warm cardigan will coordinate well with both casual or dress attire. Soft and comfortable shaker knit... [Read more]

Store: Blair

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Black Double-Breasted Tuxedo Jacket

$430.00

Elegantly tailored wool tuxedo jacket. Vent less. Dry clean. Imported [Read more]

Store: Jos. A. Bank

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Signature Double-Breasted Wool Blazer- Sizes 44-52

$595.00

The label defines the luxury inherent in this classic Jos. A. Bank style, an essential in every man's wardrobe. Fine worsted wool has the soft hand and drape of a superior ... [Read more]

Store: Jos. A. Bank

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Stripe Wool Double-Breasted Suit

$220.00

Dapper double-breasted style features signature quality tailoring detail in 100% wool perfectly weighted for multi-seasonal wear. [Read more]

Store: Paul Fredrick MenStyle

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Conservative Double Breasted Suit with Peak Lapels (P1055)

$275.00

Designer Men's Suit Style Description Conservative 6 on 2 Button Double Breasted Suit, Peak Lapels. Poly Poplin Fabric. Fully Lined. Dry clean only. The suits run true to s... [Read more]

Store: WomenSuits.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Glen Plaid Wool Flannel Flat Front Dress Trousers

$70.00

The warm, brushed softness of wool flannel is a perfect fit this season in versatile black and white. [Read more]

Store: Paul Fredrick MenStyle

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Performance Glen Plaid Double-Breasted Sportcoat

$200.00

Superior comfort & appearance all day in easy-to-coordinate black and white wrinkle & stain resistant wool. A truly distinctive choice. [Read more]

Store: Paul Fredrick MenStyle

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Herringbone Texture Linen Two-Button Soft Coat

$140.00

Tailored of naturally refined linen, the soft coat has a relaxed, sophisticated vibe that fits the season perfectly. Four interior pockets provide ample storage space for t... [Read more]

Store: Paul Fredrick MenStyle

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Double-Breasted Suit Coat

$16.49

All-season polyester/worsted wool suit coat is highly durable, wrinkle-resistant and has a rich, luxurious drape. Double-breasted design is fully lined and vented. Professi... [Read more]

Store: Blair

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Stays Cool Double Breasted Seersucker Suit

$118.50

Lightweight 100% cotton seersucker suits feature an innovative lining with Smart Fabric Technology TM by Outlast balances temperature and release excess heat to keep you co... [Read more]

Store: Jos. A. Bank

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Twill Weave Double-Breasted Suit Jacket

$150.00

Impeccably constructed of lightweight Super 100's wool for exceptional fit and multi-seasonal comfort. [Read more]

Store: Paul Fredrick MenStyle

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Houndstooth Double-Breasted Suit

$280.00

It takes a certain kind of man to pull off a double-breasted suit. It's a distinctive choice with confident attitude. Tan houndstooth pattern perfectly weighted for the sea... [Read more]

Store: Paul Fredrick MenStyle

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Windowpane Double-Breasted Wool Suit

$280.00

The distinctive attitude of a double-breasted suit is as relevant today as it was thirty-years ago a la Gordon Gekko. Signature quality detail including better half canvas ... [Read more]

Store: Paul Fredrick MenStyle

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Men's Double Breasted Houdstooth Suit (S1293)

$289.90

Designer Men's Suit Style Description New 2 PC, 6 on 3 Button Double Breasted Fashion, 33" Length, Contrast Edge Trimming, Mini Houndstooth Pattern, Wool Feel Poly / R... [Read more]

Store: Womensuits.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Double Breasted Men's Suit On Sale (P1114)

$275.00

Designer Men's Suit Style Description Double Breasted Suit with Peak Lapels. Straited Pattern. Fully Lined. Dry clean only. The suits run true to size. Please choose the si... [Read more]

Store: WomenSuits.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Sinatra Wool Felt Fedora

$49.99

For the gent who demands authenticity and everlasting style, a classic wool fedora conjures images of the artist, the movie star, the icon. Packable and crush-resistant wit... [Read more]

Store: Blair

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Sinatra Wool Felt Fedora

$49.99

For the gent who demands authenticity and everlasting style, a classic wool fedora conjures images of the artist, the movie star, the icon. Packable and crush-resistant wit... [Read more]

Store: Blair.com

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Brixton Jones Fedora Hat (Grey)

$46.00

This phenomenally blocked hat comes complete with supple satin lining, cotton sweatband, a grosgrain ribbon band and beautiful side feather. [Read more]

Store: The Village Hat Shop

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Stetson Temple Fur Felt Fedora Hat (Caribou Grey)

$162.00

The Temple by Stetson is the top of the line, Sovereign quality fur felt dress hat manufactured by America's oldest and most respected hat company. [Read more]

Store: The Village Hat Shop

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Stetson Temple Fur Felt Fedora Hat (Black)

$162.00

The Temple by Stetson is the top of the line, Sovereign quality fur felt dress hat manufactured by America's oldest and most respected hat company. [Read more]

Store: The Village Hat Shop

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Bailey Stingy Center Dent Fedora Hat (Black)

$185.00

The Bailey Stingy is a stunning addition to the Bailey Evening line of hats. This 100% fur felt hat has a rich luxurious velour finish. The hat is fully lined in satin and ... [Read more]

Store: The Village Hat Shop

1930s Mens Summer Suit Guide

Christys' Foldaway Fedora Hat w/ Box

$210.00

Christys' of London uses manufacturing techniques developed over 200 years ago and has maintained the highest standards of the hatmaking craft. [Read more]

Store: The Village Hat Shop

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