A gentleman’s guide to the Goodwood Revival dress code
What threads should you be wearing amid the motors?
Words: Jonathan Wells
This weekend marks one of the most nostalgic motoring events in the world. Set on the iconic 12,000 acre Goodwood Estate, the annual ‘Revival’ is a three day festival of historic racing cars, vintage brands and impeccable period fashion.
Granted, there are few places where you’ll find World War II fighter pilots, Teddy Boys and anorak-sporting mods walking shoulder-to-shoulder. But rest easy in the knowledge that whatever threads you decide to don, any anachronisms will be drowned out by the collective roar of everything from ageing front-engined racing cars to Lancaster aircraft.
So if you haven’t yet decided what era your outfit will echo – and you’re cutting it fine – hopefully our handy guide will ensure you remain on message, in fashion and ever the gentleman…
With a dress code spanning from the forties to the seventies, we’ve split our guide up to help you decide on a decade. First up is the 1940s, so expect demob suits, wide ties and a lot of military fashion.
A classic look is the suit – which should typically be made from thick, worsted wool or tweed. Go for a muted colour such as dark brown, grey or navy, or opt for a wide chalk stripe or overplaid pattern. Double-breasted jackets also rose to prominence during the 1940s, so pair one of these with a pair of flat-fronted or single-pleated trousers and you’ll be onto a winner.
In terms of accessorising, braces may be a classic look, but belts had started to replace button loop suspenders by the time World War II came to a close. Instead, go for a thin belt with a metal buckle, tuck a handkerchief into your top pocket, slip into a pair of two-tone brogues and pop a wool felt trilby on your head.
Military clothing can easily look cartoonish and try-hard. So, instead of going in for full ceremonial regalia, try something more subtle. Khaki or navy trousers and shined black boots paired with a muted shirt and cravat – perhaps adding an aviator’s jacket if the weather turns – will give a militaristic feel to your outfit without looking too overt.
The conservative business suit ruled once again during the 1950s, so why not try wearing a gray flannel suit with pleated trousers. The fifties also saw patterns move to the fore, so don’t shy away from striped shirts, spotted ties and the iconic Argyle cardigan.
Braces were back, and hats had never gone away – so find a fedora and jazz it up with a coloured band. The fifties also saw men beginning to wear pink during a period known as the ‘pink rage’ so, by injecting a little rose into your outfit, you’ll distinguish yourself from those uptight and monochromatic forties fellows.
The theme of this year’s Goodwood Revival is the 1966 World Cup, so sportswear will be the pervading theme for this decade’s dress. Think long sleeved jerseys, baggy shorts and knee-high socks if you’re dressing up as a footballer of the time. And remember, high waists and vertical stripes were features across almost all leisurewear of the time.
Of course, the sixties wasn’t just about sport – and there are a wealth of other striking fashions and styles from which to draw your inspiration. The patterned sleeveless jumper will keep it casual, the checkered jacket will keep it youthful and the turtleneck will help channel your inner McQueen. Just remember – if you find yourself gravitating towards a Sgt Pepper-style suit, rethink.
The 1970s were bright, brash and often embarrassing – so only go for this decade if you’re feeling particularly brave.
Pair bell-bottom jeans with tie dye shirts for early seventies or, if you want to go for the glam rock look, try anything in Royal Stewart tartan, a velvet sports coat or a colourful shawl collar tuxedo jacket. For added flounce, a silk scarf or ascot will never go amiss.
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