Conscious of their appearance, men throughout history have put effort into looking fit, successful, and attractive. In the 18th century, they wore heavily decorated rich fabrics to imply maturity, wealth, and power. In the 19th century’s early years, men’s clothing became simpler, tighter, and more revealing—a reflection of society’s esteem for the youthful heroic soldier. Corsets became a popular novelty as some men tried to achieve youthful waistlines. In the mid- and late-19th century, men in power, business, and science wore dark clothing that was precisely tailored and emphasized dignity. Attitudes changed irreversibly when the First World War once again moved men’s fashion, this time to promote an image of romantic and heroic youthfulness.
Slides and actual garments—coats, suits, hats, shoes, sports clothes, bathing-suits, and even underwear—will illustrate these lectures.