The Zoot Suit (Pictured on left). was the "Hipster's" suit, usually associated with Swing Dancing and Swing / Jazz music but was also popular with the latin scene as well. The suit became very popular in the 1930/40s era among the teens, entertainers and unfortunately street thugs. The jacket was knee length with pleated pants at the waist and pant cuffs. The chain was a long watch chain for the ones who could afford it (while most used the pull chain off the toilet if they couldn't afford a custom chain). Cab Calloway helped to make the Zoot Suit popular. In 1942 Zoot Suit production was halted due to the war effort.

    The Zoot Suit Riots happened in Los Angeles in 1943. Sailors were on leave and were in town (sick of the zooters were they), they came looking for trouble. During this leave a few words were thrown back and forth and a fight broke out, 125 people were hurt in the skirmish.... These riots would lead to the Zoot Suit laws (outlawing Zoot suits). More to come!