This is how men’s beauty has changed over the last 100 years

How has male beauty changed throughout the last century?

Men’s beauty is not as frequently talked about or discussed as that of women. However, contrary to what many people may believe, in the past 100 years, men have seen numerous changes in their styles. Taking a look at past trends is always exciting as it is interesting to see how significant change can take place from decade to decade. The past 100 years have seen thin and thick mustaches, full beards, classic side sweeps, man buns and so on. Brightside has compiled the following images from the past 120 years:

1900s: Wrestlers and strongmen

During this time, the German Eugen Sandow (now known as the ‘Father of Modern Bodybuilding’) was seen as being one of the most iconic and attractive men.

1910s: Elegance

In the 1910s, handlebar mustaches became a popular trend and one that was considered both elegant and masculine.

1920s: Classic and sleek

The roaring 20s are associated with class and during that time, men reflected this through their sleek styles.

1930s: Mustaches and ‘whiskers’

According to Bright Side, ‘the famous Clark Gable whiskers became the peak of fashion’ in the 1930s.

1940s: WWII, military and masculinity

1950s: Rebellious spirits

Male beauty in the 50s borrowed from the characteristics of ‘tough boys’. That is, it was deemed trendy to wear leather jackets and ride motorcycles.

1960s: Freedom of self-expression

The trend of the ‘tough boys’ drastically changed as in the 60s, people saw more and more freedom of self-expression in terms of beauty and style; for this reason, men like Jim Morrison, the front man of The Doors,  were celebrated.

1970s: ‘Pumping Iron’

According to Bright Side, the 1970s saw Arnold Schwarzenegger become one of the most famous men in terms of his body and style. At the same time, the hippie movement from the 60s carried on to the 70s.

 1980s: Celebration of the athletic body

Schwarzenegger’s influence continued on from the 70s and into the 80s as during this time, there was an increased appreciation of ‘athletic beauty’. Subsequently, Baywatch first aired in 1989.

1990s: Grunge wave

The 90s are best known for their music and the generation of people who were carefree in their attitude and style. An example of this is Kurt Cobain from Nirvana

 2000s: Metrosexual millenium

Metrosexuality refers to heterosexual men who take part in what was once traditionally seen as being feminine. That is, they take care of how they look and have an interest in fashion, shopping and grooming.

2010s: Carefree hipsters

The 2010s were characterized by beards, vintage clothes, glasses, and an attitude of ease.

2020s: ‘Lumbersexuality’

This term refers to urban men whose styles and appearance suggest a more rugged, outdoor lifestyle. Usually, these men have beards, long hair and check shirts.

In addition to this, CUT has created a video and used one model to depict how men’s hairstyles have changed from 1910 to 2010: