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Story: Clothes

Men's suits, 1840s to 1970s

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The suit has been a staple item of the male wardrobe since the 1840s. While it has changed in detail and cut, a suit that was fashionable in the late 19th century would not look out of place in the 2000s – though the wearer would appear particularly smart and formal amidst a sea of jeans and T-shirts. 

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Te Ara – The Encyclopedia of New Zealand

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How to cite this page

Fiona McKergow, Clothes – Men’s clothes, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/interactive/41136/mens-suits-1840s-to-1970s (accessed 25 June 2026).

Story by Fiona McKergow, published 18 March 2013.