20 Vintage Portrait Photos of Teenage Boys From the Mid-19th Century

Teenage boys in the mid-19th century typically wore clothing that reflected the formal and modest styles of the era. In the early part of the century, boys’ fashion was influenced by adult men’s styles, with a focus on neatness and propriety.

For the upper classes, boys wore tailored suits, often in dark colors, with waistcoats, high collars, and cravats or ties. They might also wear trousers or breeches, depending on their age. In rural or working-class families, clothing was simpler and more practical. Boys often wore loose shirts, sturdy trousers, and jackets, with caps or hats for practicality. The clothing was typically made from durable fabrics, as they needed to withstand the physical labor involved in their daily lives.

Footwear for all classes ranged from sturdy boots for working boys to polished shoes for those in more formal settings. Hairstyles were generally short, but neatly kept, with some boys sporting neat, swept-back styles.

Here is a set of vintage photos showing the teenage boys' styles of the 1850s and 1860s.