THE STATUTORY SACK SUIT STORY!
The Edwardian Era is marked by the supremacy of King Edward VII and is considered the most fashionable era, as the King believed in breaking the rules of conservatism. There were drastic changes in women’s clothing as they were allowed to alter their garments as per the usage or their convenience, but not much change in the men’s style of clothing.
However, there were radical changes in sports and leisure clothing for men. “While fox hunting, yachting, and polo were in favor with aristocracy and men of considerable means, the efficiencies of a more modern society afforded the middle-class time to pursue leisure activities such as golf, tennis, basketball, croquet, tennis, swimming and bicycling.”
Before the end of the 20th Century, men wore Frock suits, which was preferred by the older crowd and Morning Suits, which was worn by the younger men. It was at the beginning of the 1900s that men started preferring sack suits. However, the older men continued to favor the traditional Frock Coats, whereas, Sack Suits were fancied by the younger men.
Men’s Wear during the early 1900s was relatively formal. The elite was always well dressed at every point in time.
Sack Suits which were a part of daywear clothing comprised a long, loosely-fitted coat with wide lapels, either single breasted or double breasted. The pants were wider at the hips and slightly tapered at the ankles. Made out of woolen fabric, these suits were found in different hues of navy blue, browns and greys. A vest was also worn underneath the coat, which was generally white in color, as it was considered as the color of sophistication. To complete their attire, they adorned themselves with accessories and Oxford shoes.
Evening Wear consisted of Tuxedos, Tail Coats and Smoking Jackets.
Dressing as a man in the 1900s is not very different from today. Unlike women’s wear, men’s wear did not have drastic changes in terms of formal clothing. The styles of the 1900s can still be duplicated in the current scenario by adding minor changes here and there. But considering the current scenario, a Sack Suit, in particular, is not so popular among men. However, you never know, it may as well make a comeback.
Blog for CULTURAL HISTORY OF FASHION, Fashion Business Management, Indian School of Design and Innovation (ISDI, Mumbai)
Subject Teacher — Ms. Belinda Bawa
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