How did people dress in the 1930s? Discover women’s and men’s fashion choices in the 1930s, and learn about the influencers that shaped the styles of the decade.
Practicality and Glamour Amid the Great Depression
Fashion in the 1930s was heavily influenced by the economic and social conditions of the time, particularly the Great Depression, which began with the Wall Street Crash in 1929. This era saw a focus on practicality and restraint in clothing, yet there was also a yearning for glamour, largely inspired by Hollywood’s elegant gowns, offering an escape from the harsh realities of daily life.
A classic example of a brown tailored 1930s dress, featuring a distinctive wide bow with coloured dots and a wide-brimmed hat, paired with my 1930s-style Marie Oxfords. Photo: Tami Meijburg
Tailored Elegance
Women’s fashion in the 1930s became more tailored and sophisticated, in contrast to the looser, more linear styles of the 1920s. Dresses began to be cut on the bias, which added elasticity and allowed them to drape closely to the body. This technique gave dresses a figure-hugging silhouette and an air of elegance. Many designs featured deep backs and waistlines that returned to their natural position.
Sleeves became a focal point, often featuring dramatic styles such as puffed or bell sleeves. Everyday dresses typically reached mid-calf, while evening gowns were floor-length, in sharp contrast to the shorter hemlines of the 1920s. The influence of the Bauhaus and Art Deco movements could be seen in fashion, with symmetrical lines, geometric shapes, and visible seams creating structure. Fabrics often featured small floral prints, adding a feminine touch.
A floor-length 1930s dress with a bias cut, showcasing the figure-hugging silhouette. This design is by Danish designer Holger Blom and was featured in my historical fashion show in May. The look is completed with my 1930s inspired evening sandals, Marlene. Photo: Tami Meijburg
1930s Working-Class Women’s Fashion
Following the economic hardships brought about by the Great Depression, fashion in the 1930s emphasised frugality. Many individuals couldn’t afford luxurious garments, so reusing materials and creating homemade clothing became commonplace. Designers responded by creating clothing that could be mixed and matched, maximising versatility with fewer pieces.
For working-class women, clothing was simple and practical. Dresses were made from durable materials like cotton or wool, featuring modest designs and longer hemlines to allow for ease of movement. Aprons were often worn during domestic work or factory jobs. Women frequently repurposed old clothing or made garments at home. Practical, low-heeled shoes or sturdy boots were the standard footwear for everyday wear.
A classic 1930s look: elegant yet practical, featuring a warming woollen skirt and sturdy Oxfords, such as my Juliette shoes.
1930s Upper-Class Women’s Fashion
For wealthier women, 1930s fashion was a reflection of elegance and sophistication. Despite the economic challenges of the time, upper-class women embraced luxurious fabrics and refined designs, showcasing a return to more formal styles.
Evening wear was heavily inspired by Hollywood, with bias-cut gowns made of silk, satin, or velvet, creating sleek, flowing silhouettes that celebrated natural curves. These dresses often featured intricate details like lace, embroidery, and beading. Accessories such as fur stoles, pearls, and wide-brimmed hats completed the look.
The decade also saw the introduction of wide-legged trousers for women, though they were typically worn only for leisure activities, such as beach outings or at informal parties. These “lounging pyjamas” were so wide they often resembled skirts.
Women’s Shoes in the 1930s
Shoes in the 1930s reflected both practicality and glamour. Hollywood’s influence brought attention to elegant evening shoes, with styles like the T-strap and Mary Jane remaining popular. The French heel of earlier decades was replaced by the Spanish heel, giving a nod to classic Hollywood style.
At the same time, there was a growing need for durable, practical footwear, making Oxfords a popular choice. These were often made with a low block heel or completely flat soles, suitable for everyday wear. Platform shoes and sandals also made their debut during this period, using innovative materials like cork and wood.
Our Helen sandal is a typical 1930s evening style, featuring cutouts, a T-strap, and a Spanish heel.
Men’s Fashion in the 1930s
Men’s fashion during the 1930s was characterised by timeless elegance, with a strong emphasis on tailored designs. Double-breasted suits with wide lapels and structured shoulders became a staple, creating a sharp silhouette. Trousers were cut high on the waist and often featured pleats and cuffs. Hats such as fedoras and trilbys were essential accessories, rarely absent from a man’s outfit.
1930s Working-Class Men’s Fashion
For working-class men, clothing prioritised practicality. Sturdy wool or denim trousers were paired with plain shirts or overalls, often held in place with suspenders. Flat caps and tweed jackets were common, offering a balance of style and functionality. Work boots or durable leather shoes were essential for labour-intensive jobs in factories or on farms.
1930s Upper-Class Men’s Fashion
For upper-class men, tailoring was key. Suits were streamlined, with slimmer trousers and well-fitted jackets creating a polished, elegant silhouette. Double-breasted suits in dark colours such as navy, black, and grey were worn for formal occasions, while lighter fabrics like linen were preferred for summer attire. Accessories such as pocket squares, ties, and hats added to the refined look. Two-tone spectator shoes became a popular choice of footwear, in colour combinations such as white and brown or white and black. They often featured brogue-style detailing, giving them a look that was both casual and sporty.
Charles is our 1930s two-tone spectator shoe, true to original design in brown and white colors with a brogue pattern.
The Rise of Leisurewear
Leisurewear, which gained popularity in the 1920s, continued to evolve in the 1930s. Polo shirts, sweaters, and sports jackets became staples for casual occasions. Spectator shoes in two-tone designs, added a playful touch to leisure outfits.
An example of women’s leisurewear: A 1930s gymnastic jumpsuit from the local sports team AGF in Aarhus, Denmark, showcased during my historical fashion show in May. Photo: Tami Meijburg
If you’d like to know more about iconic shoe styles, read our article explaining the history of the iconic Oxford shoe and it's cousin, the Derby shoe in our article: You can also explore more historical fashion details in our guide to 1940s fashion in the article 1940's Fashion - What did the 1940's look like?
Sources:
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Shoes - An Illustrated Story by Rebecca Shawcross
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Tidens Mode by Anne-Grete Steckhahn
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Vintage Fashion - Collecting and Wearing Designer Classics by Emma Baxter-Wright, Karen Clarkson, Sarah Kennedy, and Kate Mulvey
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Vintage Shoes by Caroline Cox
