Henry De Havilland - 1940s Style Menswear

Menswear in the 1940s was defined by a classic silhouette. High-waisted trousers, well-proportioned shirts and double-breasted suit jackets were the epitome of fashion. Every detail, from double pleats to brace buttons, played a role in shaping the distinctive silhouette of 1940s menswear that we are proud to revive today. 

High-Waisted Trousers

1940s trousers and shorts were designed to sit at the natural waist, typically around the navel, creating longer leg lines and a more balanced silhouette.

In keeping with the times, our 1940s Oxford Bag Trousers and 1950s Hollywood Peg Trousers are cut with a wider leg to allow clean drape and movement rather than clinging to the leg. This extra width works alongside the double pleats and high waists to create a smooth uninterrupted line from waist to hem, something that is lost in more modern slimmer-cut trousers.

Turn ups help the trouser leg to hang straight and create a cleaner line from waist to shoe. The extra weight at the hem helps counterbalance the fuller cut above, enhancing drape and maintaining the elegant proportions favoured during the Golden Age of tailoring. 

Button braces are the ideal way to hold up high-waisted 1940s trousers for an authentic silhouette. They ensure the waistband stays where it should, unlike belts which break up the line and can pull the waistband down. Although clip-on braces offered convenience, button braces were preferred for their superior comfort, appearance and support. All our trousers come ready-fitted with internal brace buttons.

Shorter, Wider Ties

During the 1940s, ties were cut wider to balance the broad lapels and strong shoulders that were popular at the time. This helped to create a more powerful, well-proportioned look. They were also worn shorter, designed to finish higher up on high-waisted trousers, rather than hanging low like modern ties.

Spearpoint Collars

Spearpoint collars were designed longer on purpose. They created a sharper line through the torso and sit cleanly under a tie  or held with a collar bar. 

The extra length in the collar worked together with the wide lapels and high-waisted trousers to give 1940s tailoring the balanced, put-together look that shorter modern collars are unable to achieve.

Revere Collar Shirts

For a more relaxed look, our Oxford Cotton Revere Collar Shirts are a summer staple that goes hand in hand with high-waisted trousers or shorts.

Gurkha Shorts

Following the end of WWII, Gurkha shorts evolved from functional military garment to a classic summer menswear style that became a staple in Britain and Europe during the late 1940s and 1950s. Originally worn by Gurkha soldiers in the British Indian Army, Gurkha shorts were designed for comfort, practicality and freedom of movement in challenging climates. Their distinctive high waist and wrap fastening made them instantly recognisable.