What is the easiest way to make a 1920s men's costume?

The easiest way is to wear a white dress shirt, dark trousers, suspenders, a bow tie, and a newsboy cap or fedora. You don't need a full suit to look authentic.

What kind of hats did men wear in the 1920s?

Working-class men wore newsboy caps and flat caps, while upper-class men wore fedoras, homburgs, and straw boater hats.

Can I wear a modern suit for a 1920s party?

Yes, a modern slim-fit suit can work, but adding a vest, suspenders, a pocket square, and a vintage-style hat will make it look distinctly 1920s.

AI-generated example

1920s Men

Channel the Jazz Age with sharp suits, classic vests, and fedoras.

The 1920s is a classic costume choice for themed parties, Halloween, and Gatsby-style events. Men's fashion of this era is defined by sharp tailoring, structured layers, and dapper accessories. Whether you want to look like a wealthy socialite, a rugged gangster, or a Peaky Blinders character, this guide helps you assemble the perfect vintage look.

Difficulty: Easy
Time: ~20 min
Budget: $35–120

See yourself in one of these →What you need

Try it on

See yourself as 1920s Men

One clear photo of yourself; we render you in this costume — face untouched, full body, about 20 seconds.

Choose or drop a photo of yourselfJPG · PNG · HEIC

One render, $1. No account needed — if it fails you're not charged. Pricing.

Your photo is sent to Google's Gemini API to make the render and isn't used for training. Renders are AI-generated and labelled.

Want a different costume on this photo, or a whole group in costume? Open the Try-On Studio.

1920s Men costume — Example look · AI-generated

You as 1920s Men

Result

40 1920s Men costume ideas

Ranked by how many people are searching for them this season. Open any one for the full guide and to try it on.

What you need for a 1920s Men costume

Dress Shirt
A white or light blue long-sleeve dress shirt, preferably with a club collar or a classic wingtip collar.
DIY: Use any white button-down dress shirt you already own.
Amazon
Trousers
High-waisted, wide-leg, or straight-cut trousers in grey, brown, black, or pinstripe.
DIY: Use modern flat-front suit pants in a neutral tone.
Amazon
Button-Up Vest
A matching or contrasting button-up vest (waistcoat) in tweed, wool, or solid polyester.
DIY: Find a vintage vest at a local thrift store.
Amazon
Suspender and Tie Set
Y-back button or clip-on suspenders paired with a classic necktie or a pre-tied bow tie.
DIY: Use any dark belt and standard necktie if suspenders are unavailable.
Amazon
1920s Hat
A classic newsboy cap, flat cap, felt fedora, or a straw boater hat depending on the specific style.
Amazon
Oxford Shoes
Two-tone wingtip oxford shoes or classic dark leather dress shoes.
DIY: Wear any clean dark leather dress shoes or loafers.
Amazon

How to put it together

1
Put on the white dress shirt and button it all the way to the collar.
2
Tuck the shirt tightly into your high-waisted trousers.
3
Attach the suspenders to the waistband of your trousers, pulling them over your shoulders.
4
Tie your necktie or fasten your bow tie securely around the collar.
5
Put on the button-up vest over your suspenders and tie, leaving the bottom button undone for historical accuracy.
6
Slip on your oxford shoes and put on your chosen hat (newsboy cap or fedora) tilted slightly to one side.
7
Optional: Add a pocket watch with a chain looping from your vest buttonhole to your pocket.

Makeup & hair

Style your hair with a heavy dose of pomade or gel, parting it cleanly down the side or slicking it straight back for a high-shine, polished look.

1920s Men for couples, groups, kids & more

couples: Pair with a 1920s flapper wearing a beaded fringe dress and a feathered headband.
group: Form a gangster mob with pinstripe suits and toy tommy guns, or a Peaky Blinders gang with matching flat caps.
kids: A miniature newsboy outfit with a flat cap, suspenders, and knickerbocker pants.
Plus size: Opt for wide-leg trousers and an adjustable back-strap vest for a comfortable, flattering fit.
pet: A small dog collar attachment shaped like a black bow tie.

Tips

Keep the vest buttoned up to maintain the structured silhouette of the era.
If wearing a newsboy cap, pull it slightly forward over your brow for an authentic look.
Pocket watches, fake cigars, or a vintage cane make great, inexpensive props that elevate the outfit.
Thrift stores are excellent goldmines for vintage vests, trousers, and ties.

1920s Men costume FAQ

What is the easiest way to make a 1920s men's costume?: The easiest way is to wear a white dress shirt, dark trousers, suspenders, a bow tie, and a newsboy cap or fedora. You don't need a full suit to look authentic.
What kind of hats did men wear in the 1920s?: Working-class men wore newsboy caps and flat caps, while upper-class men wore fedoras, homburgs, and straw boater hats.
Can I wear a modern suit for a 1920s party?: Yes, a modern slim-fit suit can work, but adding a vest, suspenders, a pocket square, and a vintage-style hat will make it look distinctly 1920s.

Did you know? During the 1920s, cuffs on trousers became highly popular, originally designed to keep pants from getting muddy but quickly turning into a major fashion statement.