How to style an ascot for a 1920s party evening

The ascot – that wide, silky tie of British origin – embodies the quintessence of 1920s men's fashion.
During the Roaring Twenties, an era of boldness and celebration, it was the sign of a confident dandyism and a refined taste.

💎 At a time when elegance was measured down to the last detail, wearing the ascot distinguished men of character, those who knew how to combine freedom and sophistication.

🎩 Today, wearing an ascot for a 1920s evening is to relive that flamboyant spirit — between Gatsby the Magnificent and Peaky Blinders.

To perfect this retro look:

• Y-clip suspenders for the dandy touch,

• John Shelby elastic vest for structure,

• Gavroche cap for vintage charisma,

• And a portable pocket ashtray, a chic and responsible detail.

1. Understanding the Ascot: a symbol of British elegance 🇬🇧

The ascot, also called English tie, is distinguished by its loose shape and its fluid texture.
It is worn under the shirt collar, tied in a soft volume, often secured by a decorative pin.

🔹 Its main characteristics

• Wide, flat fabric, often pure silk

• Puffy knot creating a cascading effect

• Collar with lapel or wing collar for optimal highlighting

Originating from the Ascot races in the 19th century, the ascot was initially reserved for the aristocracy.
But in the 1920s, it became a party and seduction accessory, worn at jazz parties, luxurious receptions and society dinners.

💡 The ascot is the gentleman’s freedom: a noble accessory without the stiffness of a tie.

And to balance this refinement, add an original tie or a Corto Maltese marine anchor armband for a subtly contrasting style.

2. Men’s style of the 1920s: codes and inspirations 🎷

The Roaring Twenties revolutionized the male silhouette.
The three-piece suit becomes the norm, combining elegance, comfort and character.

🕴️ The iconic pieces:

• Double-breasted jackets

• Wide pleated trousers

• Shirts with wing collars

• Fitted vests with five or six buttons

• Patent leather shoes and matching cane

The dominant fabrics: tweed, flannel, combed wool.
The patterns: pinstripes, Prince of Wales checks, fine stripes.

💬 This look is perfectly completed with an Eggsy costume pocket square, an antique Becker pocket watch, or a Mike Ross silk tie.

The fashion of the 1920s is one of aesthetic liberation:
The men's wardrobe finally dares color, shine, and personality.

3. Choosing the right Ascot for a 1920s evening 🕰️

The secret to an authentic look lies in the choice of the right model.

🔸 Ascot styles

• Day Cravat → casual style, worn loosely

• Formal Ascot → tight knot, held by a pin

• Ruching → pleated version highly popular in the Roaring Twenties

🔸 Noble materials

• Pure silk: the luxury benchmark, soft and shiny

• Jacquard silk: subtle relief and refined texture

• Merino wool: winter elegance, matte texture

🔸 Colors and patterns

🎨 Key colors:

• Deep burgundy, navy blue, emerald green, anthracite gray
  🏛️ Art Deco patterns:

• Small geometric shapes, golden arabesques, fine diagonal stripes

💡 A burgundy jacquard silk ascot with a golden pin perfectly captures the essence of Gatsby style.

To complete, a vintage brooch, a Howlite Medusa pearl bracelet, or a Jordan Belfort tie create a chic and contemporary harmony.

4. The essential accessories of the perfect gentleman 🎩

Each accessory tells a story.
Here are those that will enhance your ascot at a 1920s party:

🔹 Essentials

• Black bowler hat → symbol of refinement

• Fine leather gloves → brown or black for a noble look

• Pocket watch → slipped into the vest, connected by a chain

• Silk pocket square → final touch of color

🔹 Jewelry and details

• Tie pin in silver or gold

• Cufflinks set with stones

• Vintage brooch on jacket lapel

• Cane with sculpted knob for flair

💬 Peaky Blinders leather clip suspenders and a vintage Zippo lighter add an irresistible historical dimension.

5. The perfect knot: mastering the art of the Ascot 🎀

The charm of the ascot lies in the fluidity of the gesture.
Here's how to tie your ascot like a true gentleman from the Roaring Twenties:

Steps:

1. Place the ascot around the neck, wide end on the right.

2. Cross the ends and pass the wide end through the loop.

3. Gently adjust the knot to create a puffed effect.

4. Secure discreetly with a gold or silver pin.

To remember:

• Prefer a wing collar shirt for a period-accurate look.

• Let the top of the knot peek out slightly.

• Match the ascot color with that of the pocket square.

💡 A well-tied ascot isn’t perfect — it should look natural, almost improvised.

6. Patterns, Colors, and Harmony 🎨

The 1920s rhyme with boldness and geometry.
The art deco patterns dominate, symbolizing modernity and prosperity.

Ideal palette:

• Burgundy → opulence and warmth

• Emerald green → luxury and originality

• Navy blue → classic distinction

• Gold and bronze → festive sparkle

Winning combinations:

• Burgundy ascot + gray suit

• Green ascot + light brown vest

• Blue ascot + black tuxedo

💬 Always pair the silk's shine with the main fabric's matte finish to create a harmonious contrast.

7. Personalization: tailored elegance 🖋️

Having your ascot engraved or embroidered adds an intimate touch to your outfit.

Personalization ideas:

• Your initials embroidered in gold thread

• A symbolic date

• A custom Art Deco pattern

For a coherent look:

• Pair with an engraved pocket watch,

• Matching cufflinks,

• And a vintage cigarette case.

💡 Every personalized detail makes your ascot a unique work — between heritage and modernity.

Conclusion: relive the glamour of the Roaring Twenties ✨

Wearing an ascot for a 1920s evening means adopting the attitude of a gentleman of the era.
It’s a gesture, a style, a philosophy: that of elegant confidence.

In summary:

• Choose noble fabrics and deep colors,

• Perfect the knot and symmetry,

• Harmonize your vintage accessories,

• And let your ascot tell your personality.

🎩 In the world of the Roaring Twenties, every detail matters. The ascot is not just a piece of fabric: it is an art, a symbol, a signature.