Meaning of the Song “What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear” by Irving Berlin

What does “What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear” by Irving Berlin Mean?

“What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear” by Irving Berlin is a witty and satirical song that highlights the fashionable trends and styles embraced by African American men in Harlem during the height of the Harlem Renaissance. Written for the 1940 musical Louisiana Purchase, the song stands out for its playful commentary on Harlem’s vibrant culture, specifically its contribution to fashion and style. Berlin, known for his wide-ranging musical compositions, used this song to bring attention to the unique fashion sense that was emerging from Harlem, a neighborhood that had become a center of cultural and artistic expression for Black Americans.

The song is more than just a commentary on clothing; it represents a celebration of self-expression and cultural pride. It captures the idea that fashion is not just about what you wear, but also about how it reflects your identity, status, and place within society. During the Harlem Renaissance, fashion was a powerful tool for African Americans to assert their individuality and creativity, often using it as a way to resist the societal limitations imposed on them.

The Core Theme of “What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear”: Fashion as Cultural Expression

The central theme of “What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear” is fashion as a form of cultural expression. Irving Berlin uses humor and wit to describe the stylish attire worn by men in Harlem, reflecting how clothing becomes a vehicle for self-representation and confidence. In the song, the “well-dressed man” is not simply dressing for function, but for identity, dignity, and pride. The men of Harlem, through their choice of fashionable attire, are defining themselves on their own terms and showcasing a unique aesthetic that is distinct to their community.

During the Harlem Renaissance, fashion was an important aspect of the cultural explosion taking place in Harlem. It was a way for African Americans to project an image of sophistication, success, and creativity in the face of widespread discrimination. The song captures this spirit of resistance and pride, illustrating how style became a form of empowerment. In a time when opportunities for social mobility were limited, fashion allowed individuals to assert their presence and make a statement about who they were and what they stood for.

Berlin’s playful lyrics emphasize the importance of looking sharp and being impeccably dressed, but they also hint at the broader societal importance of these sartorial choices. By highlighting Harlem’s unique sense of style, the song showcases the ways in which fashion was used as a tool of self-expression and social commentary.

Exploring the Lyrics: Wit, Humor, and Social Commentary

The lyrics of “What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear” are filled with clever wordplay and humor, reflecting Irving Berlin’s signature style. The song’s descriptions of clothing are exaggerated and playful, with lines like, “He’ll wear a pair of overalls with a patch on the seat / A battered derby on his head and a tuxedo on his feet.” The contrast between the overalls and tuxedo shoes reflects a humorous take on mixing high and low fashion, suggesting that the well-dressed man in Harlem is someone who defies traditional fashion rules and creates his own.

Berlin’s lyrics playfully describe the various elements of Harlem fashion, from flashy suits to wide-brimmed hats and colorful ties. The song also touches on the importance of accessories, such as silk handkerchiefs and walking sticks, which were popular among fashionable men at the time. These details highlight the flair and creativity that characterized Harlem’s fashion scene, where individuals took pride in their appearance and used clothing to make bold statements.

While the lyrics are lighthearted and humorous, they also contain a subtle layer of social commentary. By emphasizing the uniqueness of Harlem’s fashion, Berlin is acknowledging the broader cultural movement that was happening in the neighborhood. Harlem was not just a place where fashion thrived; it was also a center of artistic and intellectual achievement, with African Americans making significant contributions to literature, music, and art. The song’s focus on fashion is a reflection of Harlem’s role as a hub of Black excellence and creativity during a time when African Americans were often marginalized by mainstream society.

The Role of Fashion in Harlem’s Cultural Renaissance

Fashion played an important role in the Harlem Renaissance, serving as both a reflection of the changing times and a form of self-expression for African Americans. During this period, Harlem was a cultural mecca where writers, artists, musicians, and intellectuals gathered to share ideas and create groundbreaking work. Alongside this artistic explosion was a fashion revolution, with men and women using clothing as a way to express their individuality and challenge societal norms.

In “What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear,” Irving Berlin captures the essence of this fashion revolution. The song reflects the vibrant energy of Harlem’s streets, where well-dressed men were a common sight. Harlem’s fashion scene was characterized by bold colors, extravagant suits, and carefully curated accessories, all of which signaled confidence and defiance in the face of racial and social adversity.

For many African Americans during the Harlem Renaissance, fashion was a way to claim visibility and assert their dignity in a society that often sought to erase their contributions. The sharp, polished appearance of the “well-dressed man” in Harlem was a form of resistance, a way of saying, “We are here, and we are proud.” The song’s humorous take on fashion reflects the joy and creativity that was part of Harlem’s cultural identity.

Conclusion: The Cultural Significance of “What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear”

“What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear” by Irving Berlin is more than just a playful song about fashion. It is a celebration of the cultural pride and creativity that defined Harlem during one of the most vibrant periods of African American history. Through witty lyrics and humor, Berlin captures the essence of a fashion movement that was about more than just clothing—it was about self-expression, dignity, and resistance.

The song’s focus on Harlem’s unique sense of style serves as a reminder of the important role that fashion played in the Harlem Renaissance. As men and women dressed in their finest clothes, they were not just showcasing their fashion sense;

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of “What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear” by Irving Berlin?

The main theme of the song is fashion as a form of cultural expression and identity. It humorously celebrates the unique style and pride of African American men in Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance.

Why is Harlem important to the song’s meaning?

Harlem is portrayed as a center of cultural vibrancy and creativity, where fashion reflects the individuality and confidence of its residents. The song highlights how Harlem’s fashion scene was an expression of cultural pride and resistance.

How does the song use humor to convey its message?

The song’s lyrics are filled with witty descriptions of exaggerated fashion choices, like mixing overalls with tuxedo shoes. This playful approach adds a humorous tone while also acknowledging Harlem’s bold, creative style.

What does the “well-dressed man” symbolize in the song?

The “well-dressed man” symbolizes confidence, cultural pride, and self-expression. He represents the way African American men in Harlem used fashion to assert their identity and dignity.

How does fashion function as a form of resistance in the song?

Fashion in the song is portrayed as a way to challenge societal norms and stereotypes. By dressing with flair and confidence, the men of Harlem resist being marginalized and assert their presence and importance.

What role did fashion play during the Harlem Renaissance?

Fashion during the Harlem Renaissance was a form of self-expression and empowerment for African Americans. It allowed them to project an image of sophistication and success in the face of societal discrimination.

What is the significance of the exaggerated fashion choices in the song?

The exaggerated fashion choices reflect Harlem’s bold and creative approach to style. They highlight the idea that fashion is not just about clothing but about individuality and defying conventional expectations.

How does the song reflect Irving Berlin’s style as a songwriter?

Irving Berlin’s clever wordplay and humor shine through in this song, making a social commentary through playful lyrics. His ability to mix humor with deeper meaning is a hallmark of his songwriting style.

Why is “What the Well-Dressed Man in Harlem Will Wear” still relevant today?

The song remains relevant because it speaks to themes of identity, self-expression, and cultural pride. These themes continue to resonate, especially in discussions about fashion and its role in shaping how we present ourselves to the world.

What does the song say about the relationship between fashion and identity?

The song suggests that fashion is a key element of identity, allowing individuals to express who they are and where they come from. In Harlem, fashion was a tool for asserting cultural pride and visibility.