surfing through time
The evolution of men’s beach and holiday wear from the 1950’s to 1960’s
Men’s beach or holiday wear evolved from the 1950’s through to the 1960’s reflecting broader social changes, fashion trends, and technological advancements. (The phrase “hodad” was used in the surfing community, but mainly during the 1960’s and 1970’s. A person or persons who pretends to be a beach expert or a surfer – but doesn’t have the skills, knowledge, or experience. Such individuals would dress the part and learned the vocabulary, but didn’t surf any waves – hence the word hodad).
Let’s look closer into how men’s beach wear transformed during this period.
1950’s
Swimwear:
Swim Trunks: In the early 1950’s, men’s bathers were called swimming trunks, and were typically high-waisted – featured modest leg lengths, that often stopping mid-thigh.
Patterns and Colors: Solid colors were quite common, but patterns like stripes, checks, and Hawaiian prints fast began gaining popularity as surfers required functional and sturdy garments, thus contributing to the direction of where men’s beach fashion was going.
Materials: Wool and cotton blends were still used, however there was a gradual shift toward more comfortable and quick-drying fabrics like nylon, or Terylene as it was known in Australia.
Casual Beachwear:
Shirts: Hawaiian shirts with bold floral patterns and vibrant colors continued their popularity since the mid 1930’s, such became a staple for beach vacations. Cool cotton short-sleeved button-down shirts with open collars were also popular.
Shorts: Casual shorts, often matching the swim trunks in style and pattern, were called Cabana Sets, and were common attire. They were usually high-waisted and fitted.
Footwear: Sandals and slides were popular choices for beach footwear amongst European men. However, Westerners mainly wore slip on loafers or casual canvas lace-ups without socks.
Accessories:
Hats: Straw hats, fedoras and bucket hats with trims or hat bands were common for sun protection and casual wear.
Sunglasses: Wayfarers and aviators were a fashionable and practical choice for the sun.
1960’s
Swimwear:
Swim Shorts: Swimwear in the 1960’s became more daring. The shorts or trunks as they were also known became shorter, and the rise was lower, reflecting a more relaxed and body-conscious era.
Bold Patterns: Bright colors and bold patterns, including psychedelic prints, influenced by the counterculture movement – became more prevalent.
Materials: Synthetic fabrics like polyester and spandex improved fit and comfort, making swimwear more functional and easy to dry.
Casual Beachwear:
T-shirts: The popularity of t-shirts grew, often featuring logos, slogans, or graphic designs. Tie-dye shirts later became a symbol of the decade’s counterculture.
Button-Down Shirts: Lightweight, short-sleeved button-down shirts with various patterns remained popular with improved fabric texture and breathability.
Shorts: The length of casual shorts became shorter, and they were often paired with t-shirts or casual button-down shirts.
Footwear and Accessories:
Footwear: Flip-flops and canvas sneakers gained popularity for their practicality and casual style, emulating European fashion trends.
Hats: Bucket hats and baseball caps started to replace traditional style hats.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses became more varied in style, with larger frames with more colorful designs.
Influences:
Hollywood and Celebrities: Hollywood stars like James Dean, Elvis Presley and Sean Connery influenced men’s fashion, including beachwear, at the time. Pick up Connery’s great performance in Thunderball DVD today.
Surf Culture: The rise of surf culture in the 1960’s – especially in places such as California and Hawaii, significantly impacted beachwear trends. This culture promoted a more laid-back, carefree style, and this trend continued to be adopted throughout the 70’s as well.
Technological Advances: New synthetic fabrics allowed for more comfortable, quick-drying, and durable swimwear as well as with casual attire.
Social Changes: The 1960’s were a time of social upheaval and experimentation, reflected in the more relaxed and expressive styles of beachwear.
Overall, men’s beach and holiday wear in the 1950’s to 1960’s evolved from conservative and functional to more expressive and comfortable, influenced by broader cultural and social trends.
Key styles and iconic wearables that defined beach fashion for men
Beach fashion for men has evolved significantly over the decades, marked by several key styles and iconic wearables. Here’s a look at some of the defining elements:
Swim Trunks and Board Shorts
1950’s-1960’s: Men typically wore shorter swim trunks, often with bold patterns and colors. The classic mid-century look included high-waisted styles that provided modest coverage. Vintage styles are located here through Etsy, look through the varieties still available today.
1970’s-1980’s: Board shorts gained popularity, especially among surfers. These were longer and looser than traditional swim trunks, often reaching the knee, and featuring vibrant, tropical patterns. Iconic styles are still available but with this online store only.
1990’s-2000’s: The board short design remained popular, but swim trunks began to shorten again, combining retro styles with modern materials and designs. Different lengths and styles of board shorts from this era are bought here.
Tank Tops and T-Shirts
Tank Tops: Lightweight and often sleeveless, tank tops have been a staple for beachgoers over the last few decades. They offer comfort and breathability – essential for a day in the sun. Some unusual and vintage looking tanks can be found here today.
Graphic T-Shirts: T. Shirts featuring surf brands, beach motifs, and vibrant colors. Graphic tees became a way for men to express their personality and interests. You can find a few “old school” styles through Amazon.
Hawaiian Shirts:
Classic Aloha Shirts: These loose-fitting, button-down shirts with bold, floral patterns are iconic in beach wear fashion. Originating from Hawaii, they became a global symbol of casual, tropical style, favoured by many. Learn more about the different styles as you scroll through these.
Flip-Flops and Sandals
Flip-Flops: Simple, yet easy to slip on and off. Flip-flops are an essential part of beach footwear of choice. Brands like Havaianas and Billabong, became synonymous with this style. Classic varieties of flip flops are found online today.
Sandals: Leather or fabric sandals offer a more durable, yet often more stylish alternative to flip-flops – suitable for both beach and casual outings. Quality leather sandal styles can be viewed here online, look at the varieties available.
Sunglasses
Aviators and Wayfarers: Classic styles like aviators and wayfarers have been timeless choices – offering both protection from the sun and a stylish accessory on the beach or for any social outing. There is something for every taste right here to choose from.
Hats and Caps:
Baseball Caps: Practical and stylish accessory – these caps have been a favorite for beachgoers and sporting enthusiasts, providing shade with a sporty look. Vintage look baseball caps have a myriad of styles to choose from here, look through these for inspiration.
Straw Hats: Wide-brimmed straw or fedora hats offer excellent sun protection with a laid-back, beachy aesthetic. Fedora or vintage style beach hats are a plenty through this supplier online.
Beach Accessories
Towels and Beach Mats: Bold, colorful beach towels or straw woven mats – make a practical alternative eliminating sand but adding to the overall beach style. Gorgeous varieties of towels or beach mats can be bought directly right here.
Beach Bags: Functional yet stylish, these bags are made from materials such as canvas or straw, and help carry essentials, while complementing the beach look. Retro and assorted styles are available for perusing at Amazon online.
Wetsuits and Rash Guards
Wetsuits: An essential for surfers and water sports enthusiasts, that protect against the cold acting as a thermal, and provide a sleek, athletic look. Many wet-suit styles are bought here at Amazon.
Rash Guards: These are worn for sun protection, and to prevent chafing during water activities, which can often featuring stylish prints or vibrant colors. Assorted rash guards can be located through this online store.
These elements together create a comprehensive picture of beach fashion for men – highlighting both the functional aspects, and the iconic styles that have come to define seaside aesthetics.
How Hollywood influenced men’s holiday wear during the 1950’s to 1960’s
Hollywood had a significant impact on men’s holiday attire during the 1950’s and 1960’s. It shaped popular styles and trends through the influence of movie stars persona and their on-screen wardrobes. This is how Hollywood influenced men’s holiday fashion during this time.
Iconic Movie Stars
James Dean: Known for his rebellious style, Dean popularized casual, rugged looks that included denim, leather jackets, and plain white t-shirts. His style was emblematic of youthful rebellion but also influenced holiday wear by making casual, simple attire stylish.
Elvis Presley: The King of Rock and Roll – was known for his flamboyant style, that included Hawaiian shirts, bold patterns, and slim-fitting pants. His 1961 film “Blue Hawaii” had a significant impact on holiday wear – making colorful, tropical prints fashionable. Get some great styling ideas directly from this film today.
Sean Connery in James Bond: The James Bond series of films, starting with “Dr. No” in 1962, showcased Connery in sharp, tailored suits, and resort wear. Bond’s look, including his casual resort attire like short-sleeve button-up shirts and tailored shorts, influenced holiday fashion by promoting a sophisticated, but polished appearance. Watch this classic movie on DVD today, learn about it here.
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Films and Their Influence
“South Pacific” (1958): This musical showcased vibrant, tropical wear, including Hawaiian shirts and casual shorts – that became popular in men’s holiday fashion trends. Get your copy on DVD of South Pacific online.
“Gidget” (1959): The beach movie that helped popularize the surf culture. Trends such as board shorts, t-shirts, and casual beachwear added to the aesthetic promoted through this film. Purchase this movie on DVD now.
“To Catch a Thief” (1955): Cary Grant’s suave style, including his casual yet sophisticated vacation wardrobe, highly influenced men’s holiday attire by elevating a blend of elegance and comfort. Buy this move on DVD today through Amazon.
Trends and Styles
Hawaiian Shirts: The popularity of Hawaiian and tropical prints in Hollywood films and worn by personalities like Elvis Presley – led to these iconic shirts becoming a staple in men’s holiday wardrobes.
Swim Trunks: Shorter swim trunks became fashionable, influenced by beach movies and the casual, lay-back or active lifestyle they portrayed.
Casual Suits: Lightweight, casual suits in neutral tones became popular for holiday wear, inspired by the sophisticated yet relaxed looks seen worn by stars like Sean Connery and Cary Grant.
Marketing and Media
Magazine Features: Hollywood stars on vacation were often featured in magazines, making these looks accessible and aspirational to the general public.
Advertising: Brands also capitalized on the popularity of Hollywood fashion by creating advertisements that featured stars or star-inspired looks – promoting this stylishness as desirable and trendy.
Cultural Impact
Leisure and Luxury: Hollywood films often depicting an idealized version of leisure and luxury, influencing gentlemen to adopt similar styles for their vacations. This included tailored shorts, polo shirts, and loafers, creating a polished yet relaxed look.
Youth Culture: The 1950’s and 1960’s saw the rise of youth culture, with Hollywood stars like James Dean and films like “Gidget” or “Bikini Beach” drove fashion trends – that resonated with younger audiences seeking casual, stylish holiday wear.
Hollywood’s influence on men’s holiday fashion during the 1950’s and 1960’s was profound, shaping trends that emphasized casual elegance, vibrant patterns, and a blend of sophistication and comfort. These styles continue to inspire contemporary holiday wear, reflecting the enduring impact of Hollywood’s golden era.
Tips for incorporating men’s vintage beach fashion into modern wardrobes
To incorporate men’s classic beach fashion into modern wardrobes can help create a stylish, timeless look. Tips to assist you to seamlessly blend vintage beach elements with contemporary style.
Swimwear
Shorter Swim Trunks: Look for fitted mid-thigh or slightly shorter swim trunks – reminiscent of the 1950’s and 60’s. Solid colors, nautical stripes, or simple patterns all work well.
Bold Patterns: Consider swim trunks with retro patterns like tropical prints or geometric designs.
Shirts
Camp Collar Shirts: These relaxed, short-sleeve shirts are perfect for the beach. Look for vintage prints such as Hawaiian patterns or solid block colors
Breton Stripes: Classic Breton striped shirts are timeless and versatile. Pair them with swim trunks or casual shorts.
Shorts
High-Waisted Shorts: Opt for shorts that fall at or just above the knee. Classic colors like navy, khaki, or white are easy to pair with various tops.
Chino Shorts: These are a versatile canvas option that can be dressed up or down.
Footwear
Espadrilles: Comfortable and stylish slip ons. Espadrilles for men are a great addition to a vintage-inspired beach look.
Retro Sneakers: Canvas sneakers, such as Converse or vintage-style running shoes, can add a sporty touch.
Leather Sandals: Simple leather sandals or slides in black or brown can give a polished, retro feel.
Accessories
Sunglasses: Wayfarers or aviators are classic choices that add a vintage vibe.
Straw Hats: A straw fedora or a Panama hat can provide sun protection, while enhancing the vintage aesthetic.
Beach Bags: Consider a woven tote or a vintage-style canvas bag for carrying beach essentials.
Outerwear
Lightweight Jackets: A Harrington jacket or a lightweight windbreaker can be practical and stylish for cooler beach evenings.
Sweaters: A cable-knit sweater or a lightweight cardigan with zip front can add a touch of vintage charm.
Patterns and Colors
Bold Prints: Embrace the look of tropical prints, geometric patterns, and other retro designs.
Classic Colors: Red, navy, white, or pastels are timeless and versatile. Combine these with bold prints for a balanced look.
Materials
Natural Fabrics: Choose cotton, linen, or other breathable materials for comfort, cool and stylishness.
Layering
Versatile Layering: Try layering a camp collar shirt over a simple t-shirt or tank top for a casual, yet polished look
Sweater around Shoulders: By draping a lightweight sweater over your shoulders – this can certainly add a preppy, vintage touch.
Grooming
Classic Hairstyles: Consider some vintage-inspired hairstyles – like the side part or a classic pompadour (if you retain volume) to complete the look.
By incorporating these elements, you will create a sophisticated and unique beach wardrobe that blends the best of classic and contemporary fashion.
It’s been a fun look through mid century beach fashion for men and I hope you have picked up some tips here and there on how to incorporate your retro inspired beach wardrobe.
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