Embracing the Notorious Elegance of a 1920s Gangster

An Introduction to the Golden Age of Organized Crime and Fashion

The roaring twenties were a time of dramatic societal shifts, economic prosperity, and rampant lawlessness. Within this turbulent era emerged a captivating subculture of organized crime, epitomized by the notorious gangster. These enigmatic figures, known for their extravagant lifestyles and sharp attire, have forever etched their mark in popular culture.

Deciphering the Gangster Costume: A Guide for the Modern-Day Dapper

Dressing as a 1920s gangster is a timeless way to embody the allure and intrigue of this captivating era. Whether for a themed party, a theatrical performance, or simply a touch of illicit sophistication, the following guide provides a comprehensive roadmap to creating an authentic and impressive gangster ensemble.

The Pinstriped Suit: A Symbol of Power

The pinstriped suit served as the quintessential uniform of the 1920s gangster. Tailored to perfection, these suits typically featured a double-breasted jacket with wide lapels and a contrasting pinstripe pattern. The trousers were high-waisted and often had a slight flare at the bottom.

Accessories: Enhancing the Gangster Aesthetic

Accessories played a crucial role in completing the gangster look.

• Fedora: A wide-brimmed fedora, usually in black or gray, was the classic headwear of choice for gangsters.
• Pocket Watch: A gold or silver pocket watch, often adorned with intricate engravings, added a touch of timeless elegance.
• Cigar Holder: A long, ornate cigar holder exuded an air of sophistication and menace.
• Speakeasy Flask: A concealed flask, hidden within the suit jacket, provided a discreet way to indulge in illicit libations.

Footwear: Completing the Gangster Ensemble

Gangsters favored two distinct types of footwear:

• Oxfords: Black or brown leather oxfords with pointed toes and a low heel were a popular choice for formal occasions.
• Brogue Shoes: Wingtip brogue shoes, adorned with intricate perforations, added a touch of style and flair.

The Tommy Gun: The Iconic Symbol of Gangster Power

The Thompson submachine gun, also known as the "Tommy gun," became synonymous with the era of organized crime. Its compact size, high rate of fire, and menacing appearance made it the weapon of choice for many gangsters.

Famous Gangsters: Icons of the Roaring Twenties

Numerous infamous gangsters left an enduring legacy on the era:

• Al Capone: Known as "Scarface," Capone was one of the most notorious gangsters of the 1920s, controlling a vast criminal empire in Chicago.
• Bugsy Siegel: Siegel played a key role in the development of Las Vegas as a gambling destination.
• Bonnie and Clyde: This infamous couple became legendary for their daring bank robberies and bloody shootouts with the police.

Women in the Gangster Era: Breaking the Gender Mold

While primarily a male-dominated world, women also played significant roles in the gangster subculture. Female gangsters, known as "molls," often acted as accomplices or confidantes to their male counterparts.

The Cultural Impact of the Gangster: Hollywood and Beyond

The mystique of the gangster has permeated popular culture, inspiring countless movies, television shows, and books.

• The Godfather (1972): Francis Ford Coppola's epic masterpiece tells the saga of the Corleone family, a powerful Mafia clan.
• The Sopranos (1999-2007): This Emmy-winning HBO series explored the daily lives and inner turmoil of a modern-day mobster family.
• Boardwalk Empire (2010-2014): Set in Atlantic City during the Prohibition era, this HBO series follows the rise and fall of infamous gangster Enoch "Nucky" Thompson.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Gangster Costume

1. Choose a Pinstriped Suit: Opt for a tailored double-breasted suit with a contrasting pinstripe pattern.
2. Accessorize Accordingly: Get a fedora, pocket watch, cigar holder, and concealed flask.
3. Select Gangster Footwear: Consider black or brown leather oxfords or brogue shoes.
4. Add a Tommy Gun (Optional): If desired, acquire a toy or prop Tommy gun to enhance the authenticity of your costume.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Poor-Fitting Suit: A suit that is too loose or too tight will detract from the overall look.
• Unkempt Accessories: Accessories should be clean and well-maintained to convey sophistication.
• Lack of Detail: Pay attention to small details like the style of your fedora and the type of cigar holder you use.
• Inauthentic Weapons: If using a prop weapon, ensure it is clearly non-lethal and safe for public use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What other accessories were popular among gangsters?
* Lapel pins
* Diamond rings
* Gold chains
* Suspenders

Q: What types of hats did gangsters wear besides fedoras?
* Trilby hats
* Newsboy caps
* Flat caps

Q: Were there any female gangsters besides Bonnie and Clyde?
* Myra Maybelle Shirley
* Ma Barker
* Stella Barkan

Conclusion

The allure of the 1920s gangster costume lies in its ability to evoke a time of both glamour and danger. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can embody the notorious elegance of this era, creating a costume that captivates and commands attention wherever you go.

Tables

Table 1: Recommended Suit Fabrics

Table 2: Gangster Accessories and Their Significance

Table 3: Notable Gangster Films