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Designing Masculinity In 1920s Paris: Studies In Design And Material Culture

Yasunari Kawabata

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Published in Deco Dandy: Designing Masculinity In 1920s Paris (Studies In Design And Material Culture)

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The 1920s was a period of great social and cultural change in Paris. The city was a hub of artistic and intellectual activity, and new ideas about gender and sexuality were being explored. This article explores the ways in which masculinity was designed and shaped in 1920s Paris. It examines the role of fashion, grooming, and material culture in creating new ideals of manhood. The article also discusses the impact of these changes on the social and cultural landscape of the period.

Deco Dandy: Designing masculinity in 1920s Paris (Studies in Design and Material Culture)

by John Potvin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11004 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	352 pages

Fashion

Fashion played a major role in defining masculinity in 1920s Paris. The traditional suit and tie remained the standard attire for formal occasions, but new styles emerged that were more relaxed and informal. These styles included the zoot suit, which was popular among African-American men, and the turtleneck sweater, which was worn by intellectuals and artists. Fashion designers such as Coco Chanel and Paul Poiret also began to experiment with new silhouettes for men, creating clothes that were more fitted and flattering to the body.

A Man Wearing A Zoot Suit In 1920s Paris. Deco Dandy: Designing Masculinity In 1920s Paris (Studies In Design And Material Culture)

Grooming

Grooming was another important aspect of masculine identity in 1920s Paris. Men began to pay more attention to their appearance, and new products and services were developed to meet their needs. These products included hair pomades, shaving creams, and colognes. Men also began to visit barbershops more frequently, and new styles of haircutting and beard trimming emerged. These changes in grooming practices helped to create a new ideal of male beauty that was more polished and refined than in previous decades.

A Man Getting A Haircut In A Barbershop In 1920s Paris. Deco Dandy: Designing Masculinity In 1920s Paris (Studies In Design And Material Culture)

Material Culture

Material culture also played a role in shaping masculinity in 1920s Paris. New products and technologies were introduced that were designed specifically for men. These products included cars, radios, and sports equipment. These products helped to create a new sense of male identity that was associated with power, speed, and adventure. They also helped to create new spaces for men to socialize and interact with each other.

A Man Driving A Car In 1920s Paris. Deco Dandy: Designing Masculinity In 1920s Paris (Studies In Design And Material Culture)

Impact of Changes in Masculinity

The changes in masculinity that occurred in 1920s Paris had a significant impact on the social and cultural landscape of the period. These changes helped to create a new ideal of manhood that was more expressive, individualistic, and modern. This new ideal of manhood challenged traditional notions of masculinity and helped to pave the way for new social and cultural norms. The changes in masculinity also had a significant impact on the way that men and women interacted with each other. These changes helped to create a more egalitarian society in which women had more opportunities and freedoms.

The 1920s was a period of great change for masculinity in Paris. New ideals of manhood emerged that were more expressive, individualistic, and modern. These changes were reflected in the way that men dressed, groomed themselves, and consumed material culture. The changes in masculinity also had a significant impact on the social and cultural landscape of the period. They helped to create a more egalitarian society in which women had more opportunities and freedoms.

Deco Dandy: Designing masculinity in 1920s Paris (Studies in Design and Material Culture)

by John Potvin

5 out of 5