A three-piece suit from the 1920s is very elegant and comprises a jacket, waistcoat, and trousers all made from the same fabric and shapedto the proportions typical of that decade. At Trend Fashion Tailors in Koh Samui, we create such suits according to your measurements, offering you the choice between the early-1920s British style or the more relaxed American cut associated with the late Jazz Age.
The 1920s was a period when men’s clothing changed. The formal frock coat was replaced by the lounge suit and younger men began to prefer softer and more relaxed styles. If you know which part of the decade you want to reflect then you can choose the appropriate suit.
Early 1920s vs Late 1920s Styles
There was no single fashion characteristic during the decade, and the style changed noticeably from the early to the later years.
Early 1920s
- Slim, short jackets with a high button stance
- Narrow lapels
- High-waisted, narrow trousers
- Single-breasted waistcoats cut high on the chest
Late 1920s
- Broader shoulders and a longer jacket
- Wider lapels, including peak lapels on single-breasted jackets
- Fuller trousers, sometimes very wide in the style known as Oxford bags
- Double-breasted waistcoats, often with lapels
When attending a Gatsby-themed event, the second style is generally the more suitable one. For a British period appearance, however, the first cut is better.
Key Features of a 1920s Three-Piece Suit
Whichever era you choose, some details are common to both:
- The waistcoat was worn with the buttons fastened, except for the lower button.
- Trousers with a high rise sit at the natural waist and are secured using braces.
- Turn-ups were common on the hems of trousers throughout the decade.
- The jacket has ticket pockets and flap pockets, and the waistcoat has a watch pocket.
It is because of these details that the suit has a period character and that it is easy to wear with or without the jacket.
Fabric and Colour Choices
The typical fabrics used at that time were wool flannel, tweed, worsted wool and, in warmer weather, linen. The patterns varied from plain cloth to pinstripes, chalk stripes, herringbone and checks.
The range of colours was greater than most people imagine. As well as charcoal, navy and grey, men wore browns, tans and lighter shades in the summer.
For wear on Koh Samui, we often suggest:
- Lightweight worsted wool for evening events
- Linen or linen blends in cream or light grey for daytime weddings
- Cotton blends for a structured look with more breathability
When you wear the suit in a colder climate, a heavier flannel or tweed will give it greater authenticity in terms of weight and drape.
Our Made-to-Measure Process
We follow the same steps for every suit:
- Consultation: We agree regarding the era, the cut and the details you want.
- Fabric selection: You choose cloth with guidance on weight and pattern.
- Measurements: We record your measurements and note your posture and build.
- Fittings: You try the suit on as it is made so we can refine the fit.
- Collection: You collect the finished suit after a final check.
Let us know your travel dates at the first appointment. We will schedule fittings to fit within your time on the island.
Popular Occasions for a 1920s Suit
Our customers order 1920s three-piece suits for:
- Weddings: For the groom, groomsmen or guests at a vintage-themed wedding.
- Themed parties: Gatsby, Jazz Age and Prohibition events.
- Theatre and film: Where suits must look correct on stage or screen.
- Everyday wear: For those who prefer a classic, structured suit.
For wedding parties, we can match the fabric across the group and adjust details such as waistcoat colour or the groom’s lapel style.
Completing the Look
A suit from the 1920s is typically worn together with some period accessories, such as a pocket square, braces, a tie bar or a tie pin, and a pocket watch. If a more formal appearance is desired, then a bow tie goes well with the later 1920s styles.
We can also provide shirts to go with your suit, such as those with rounded club or detachable collars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 1920s three-piece suit include?
A jacket, waistcoat, and trousers in matching fabric, cut to 1920s proportions.
What is the difference between early and late 1920s suits?
Early-1920s suits are slimmer, with narrow lapels and trousers. Late-1920s suits have broader shoulders, wider lapels and fuller trousers.
Is a 1920s suit suitable for a Gatsby party?
Yes. A late-1920s cut with wider lapels and a double-breasted waistcoat most closely matches the Gatsby look.
Can you make a 1920s suit in lightweight fabric?
Yes. We offer lightweight wool, linen and cotton blends that suit Koh Samui’s climate.
Do you make matching shirts?
Yes. We make shirts with period-style collars to complete the outfit.
How do I order a 1920s suit on Koh Samui?
Visit our shop for a consultation and tell us your travel dates so we can plan fittings.