Formalwear for men has undergone significant transformation over the past century. From rigid uniformity to expressive tailoring, the suit and tuxedo have evolved in both form and cultural meaning. What was once strictly about rules has become a canvas for personal identity, style, and even sustainability.
This article traces the key changes in men’s formalwear, with a focus on how fit, fabric, and function have shaped the modern approach to dressing up.
1920s–1940s: The golden age of tailoring
In the early 20th century, suits were a daily standard for working men, particularly in urban centers. High-waisted trousers, wide lapels, and three-piece suits dominated wardrobes. Formal eveningwear—typically a black tuxedo—was a non-negotiable for high-society events.
Tailoring was the norm, often passed down through family tailors or local shops. The tuxedo, introduced in the late 1800s as a more relaxed alternative to the tailcoat, was formal but accepted as fashion-forward for its time.
1950s–1960s: Post-war refinement and standardization
After World War II, men’s fashion embraced clean lines and uniformity. The “gray flannel suit” became a symbol of professionalism, particularly in corporate America. The tuxedo remained a staple for black-tie affairs, with fewer deviations from the traditional black-and-white formula.
Mass production and department store retail began to shift the market toward standardized sizing, reducing demand for bespoke tailoring.
1970s–1980s: Experimentation and excess
Formalwear saw bold experimentation in the 1970s, with wider lapels, vibrant colors, and unconventional fabrics like velvet and polyester making appearances in both suits and tuxedos. Ruffled shirts, pastel tones, and flared pants reflected broader cultural shifts and a break from post-war conservatism.
In the 1980s, power suits and sharply tailored shoulders returned as symbols of corporate dominance. Eveningwear largely stuck to tradition, but some designers began playing with modernized tuxedo silhouettes for high fashion.
1990s–2000s: Minimalism and ready-to-wear
Minimalist fashion in the ’90s brought more subdued tailoring: slimmer cuts, darker tones, and subtle patterns. The tuxedo saw renewed interest in pop culture, but remained conservative in most formal settings.
The rise of fast fashion in the 2000s introduced mass-market suiting at lower price points, often sacrificing quality and fit. While accessibility improved, personalization took a back seat.
2010s–2020s: The return of the individual
Over the last 15 years, there has been a strong return to tailoring—this time driven by consumer demand for fit, longevity, and personal expression. Social media and online tailoring platforms have empowered more men to explore customized options, leading to the mainstream resurgence of custom suits.
Simultaneously, the tuxedo has undergone a quiet reinvention. No longer limited to black wool and bow ties, modern tuxedos now include velvet jackets, shawl lapels, colorful options, and fashion-forward pairings like sneakers or turtlenecks.
2025 and beyond: Personalization as standard
Looking forward, the direction of men’s formalwear is clear: personalization is no longer a luxury—it’s the expectation. Younger generations prioritize fit, ethical sourcing, and versatility. The result is a growing preference for fewer, better garments that are tailored to the wearer’s body and lifestyle.
Technology will continue to bridge the gap between digital convenience and physical precision, making custom garments easier to access and more affordable.
Conclusion
From structured uniformity to expressive utility, men’s formalwear has traveled a long road. As fit, function, and personality converge, both the suit and the tuxedo are being redefined—not by designers alone, but by the men who wear them.
