Dapper in '34

[rjbaal]

Here's a pic I came across when reviewing old files on my Computer.

Was the contrast look (ie matching vest and jacket with contrasting trousers) a common style in '34?

Ps the pic is of my granddad!

 

[anon`]

I've seen a fair number of fashion plates, and somewhat fewer photos or movie wardrobes where all three pieces are "odd" (that is to say, unmatched). I see nothing wrong or out of place with this particular getup (assuming it is odd trousers paired with a matching waistcoat and jacket), but it's equally possible that the waistcoat and jacket are similar enough to look the same on B&W film.

Either way, I'd wager that this particular look was on the uncommon side of things based on how many examples of it I've seen, but I certainly think it's a good look!

 

[Dinerman]

that's a slick look. Look at the fit of that vest. The points on the lapels of the jacket.

 

[Miss 1929]

It's a casual look!!!

Not for business or social events. But a great way to use the un-worn-out parts of a suit, and typical of at-home wear.

 

[Matt Deckard]

very slick. I went through London with vest and jacket matching though with odd trousers... unfortunately I think those in the financial district thought I was odd... them with their matching three piece suits and all. Anywho... it looks fine.

 

[Tomasso]

It's a casual look!!! Not for business or social events.

Unless you're the President.

 

[flat-top]

I have an amazing three piece suit, but the pants do not fit. The jacket and vest are perfect. It's been sitting in my closet for years unworn.
This picture gives me some inspiration to try something new (or old) with it!
Thanks!

 

[Baron Kurtz]

Not for business or social events.

I have never heard of such an injunction. This is the perfect outfit for a spring/summer social gathering - probably one that was occurring outdoors of an afternoon. (As Tomasso so vividly illustrates. Always a chap to be counted upon to back one up, is Tomasso.)

In fact, the odd combination was the standard promenading outfit for the younger to middle aged gent of the 1930s, from what i can tell from period magazines. Can't get much more social than the promenading scene.

bk

 

[Dinerman]

Unless you're the President.

I like the back of the jacket in the foreground

 

[Matt Deckard]

We need more pics

 

[Miss 1929]

well, I can be wrong

Except for the summertime white slacks with navy blazer look, as seen on the President, I have always seen it said in how-to-dress articles and dressing sections of etiquette books, that for anything beyond casual, a gentleman wears a suit. Contrasting separates are not a suit.
I mean social occasions as in weddings, dinners, luncheons etc., not hanging out at the bar or going to the races etc., as those are casual and sports! affairs.
But I am very old-fashioned!

 

[Fletch]

Avoid

...a matching vest and pants with odd jacket. You don't see men wearing this in old pictures, I think because it looked like overalls.

 

[manton]

 

[Boulevardier]

Thanks for the very dapper postings. I wore white trousers with matching vest and jacket to a garden party on the day of the Preakness (May 18, I think) and got rave reviews from the ladies present.
White bucks work well but so do spectator shoes and consider adding a summer hat.
This was big in the Thirties. Maybe Fedora Lounge can bring it back!

 

[=Clipper=]

Love it!

 

[The Wolf]

Thanks for sharing the photo

His look not only something that was done in the day but he pulls it off magnificently.
The fit of the clothes and his casual elegance are admirable.

Sincerely,
The Wolf

 

[JimInSoCalif]

Here's a pic I came across when reviewing old files on my Computer.

Was the contrast look (ie matching vest and jacket with contrasting trousers) a common style in '34?

Ps the pic is of my granddad!

I don't know because that was the year I was born, but your granddad looks very dapper to me. Thanks for posting the photo.

Cheers, Jim.

 

[Fletch]

I see you're in NY, rj, and am guessing your gf was from here too. You couldn't get away with looking this elegant and prosperous just anyplace - not even in 1934. He was what used to be called a sharpie!

 

[Jerekson]

People told me I was crazy, but I did it anyway. Who knew it was a style?

 

[Mr. Rover]

I never particularly liked this look with the matching vest and jacket but odd pants. To me, it seems like the pants wore out and the wearer just threw on the first contrasting pants he could find with it. I much prefer a matching vest and pants paired with an odd jacket, as a style. There's more balance from top to bottom that way, IMHO. Just as it works to wear a an odd vest with a suit.
With mismatched jacket and pants, they are at least in balance. This look just becomes too top heavy to me.