Men's fashion in the Victorian era followed the rules of the time but also had moments of rebellion.

Following the Rules:

• Tailcoats and Waistcoats: Most men wore fancy suits that included tailcoats and waistcoats. These outfits showed they were following what society expected of them.
• Colors and Fabrics: The colors were mostly dark, like black and gray. This matched the serious vibe of the period.

Breaking the Mold:

• Aesthetic Movement: Some men were part of the Aesthetic Movement. They chose bright and bold styles, using rich fabrics and lively colors. This went against the dullness of traditional clothing.
• Dandyism: People like Oscar Wilde stood out with unique fashion choices that celebrated individuality instead of just fitting in.

In summary, while a lot of men's fashion in the Victorian era supported the idea of manliness, there were also creative styles that challenged and changed those old rules.