London Boy: Fred Astaire’s Love Affair with London and the West End

Fred Astaire is renowned for his effortless charm, impeccable dance skills, and elegant sartorial choices. While Astaire’s career is most closely associated with Hollywood, he also had a deep love for London and made significant contributions to the West End theater scene. Moreover, his association with London’s Savile Row solidified his status as a style icon. This blog explores Fred Astaire’s enduring connection with London, his career on the West End stage, and his impeccable fashion sense.

Early Encounters with London

Fred Astaire’s love for London began early in his career. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1899, Astaire started performing as a child alongside his sister, Adele, in New York City where they moved with their mother. The sibling duo quickly gained popularity in vaudeville, and by the 1920s, they were making waves on Broadway. It wasn’t long before their talent caught the attention of producers across the Atlantic.

In 1923, Fred and Adele Astaire made their London debut in the musical revue Stop Flirting at the Shaftesbury Theatre. Their performance was met with rave reviews, and the Astaires became the toast of the town. London audiences were captivated by their sophisticated style and seamless dance routines. This initial success laid the foundation for Fred’s enduring love for the city.

West End Triumphs

Fred and Adele Astaire’s success in London continued throughout the 1920s. They starred in several hit shows on the West End, cementing their status as international stars.

Lady, Be Good! (1926)

One of the most significant milestones in Fred Astaire’s London career was the West End production of Lady, Be Good! in 1926. The musical, written by George and Ira Gershwin, was a sensation on Broadway, and its transfer to London was highly anticipated. Fred and Adele starred as a brother-sister dance team, a role that mirrored their real-life partnership. The show was a massive hit, running for over a year and earning rave reviews. Lady, Be Good! featured some of the Gershwins’ most memorable songs, including "Fascinating Rhythm" and "Oh, Lady Be Good!"

Funny FacE (1928)

In 1928, Fred and Adele returned to London with another Gershwin musical, Funny Face. The show, which also featured a book by Fred Thompson and Paul Gerard Smith, was another triumph for the Astaires. The production was notable for its innovative choreography and stylish costumes. Funny Face ran for 263 performances in London, solidifying Fred and Adele’s status as the darlings of the West End. Fred would later star in a movie of the same name with Audrey Hepburn, though with an entirely different plot and only 4 songs from the original stage production.

The Band Wagon (1931)

Before making the transition to Hollywood, Fred and Adele Astaire starred in The Band Wagon on the West End in 1931. The show, written by George S. Kaufman and Howard Dietz, was a critical and commercial success. It showcased Fred’s exceptional dancing abilities and further endeared him to London audiences. After The Band Wagon, Adele retired from show business, and Fred made his way to Hollywood, where he would become a legendary film star. The Band Wagon was another movie that Astaire starred in with a different plot than its original material and produced one of Fred’s most memorable dance numbers.

From Main Street to Savile Row

While Fred Astaire is celebrated for his contributions to theater and film, he is equally renowned for his impeccable style. Astaire’s association with London’s Savile Row, the world-famous street known for its bespoke tailoring, played a crucial role in shaping his sartorial legacy.

Bespoke Elegance

Savile Row, located in the heart of London, has been synonymous with fine tailoring since the 18th century. The street is home to some of the world’s most prestigious tailors, who create custom-made suits for discerning clients. Fred Astaire was a regular customer at Savile Row, where he had many of his iconic outfits tailored. He favored the services of Anderson & Sheppard, a tailor renowned for its soft, natural-shoulder suits.

Astaire’s style was characterized by its understated elegance and attention to detail. He was known for his perfectly tailored suits, which allowed him to move effortlessly while dancing. Astaire often chose lightweight fabrics, such as worsted wool and flannel, which provided both comfort and sophistication. His preference for double-breasted jackets, wide lapels, and high-waisted trousers became signature elements of his look.

Innovative Style Choices

Fred Astaire’s fashion sense extended beyond his choice of suits. He was known for his innovative and sometimes unconventional style choices. One of his most famous fashion quirks was using silk scarves as belts. This unique accessory added a touch of flair to his outfits and became one of his trademark looks.

Astaire was also meticulous about his footwear. He often wore custom-made dance shoes that combined elegance with functionality. His shoes were designed to enhance his dance performances, providing the flexibility and support needed for his intricate routines. Astaire’s attention to detail even extended to his socks; he famously ensured that his socks, pants, and shoes were different colors to create visual contrast on black-and-white film.

Hollywood Stardom and Return to London

After making a name for himself on the West End, Fred Astaire transitioned to Hollywood, where he achieved unprecedented success. His films with Ginger Rogers, including Top Hat (1935), Swing Time (1936), and Shall We Dance (1937), became iconic and solidified his status as a Hollywood legend.

Despite his Hollywood stardom, Astaire never forgot his love for London. He returned to the city multiple times throughout his career, both for professional engagements and personal visits.

Performances at the London Palladium

In the 1950s and 1960s, Fred Astaire made several appearances at the London Palladium, one of the city’s most prestigious theaters. His performances were eagerly anticipated and drew large crowds. Astaire’s ability to captivate audiences with his charm and talent remained undiminished, and his shows at the Palladium were met with acclaim.

Honors and Recognition

Fred Astaire’s contributions to the arts were recognized with numerous honors, both in the United States and abroad. In 1950, he was awarded an honorary Academy Award for his “unique artistry and contributions to the technique of musical pictures.” In 1972, he was honored with the Special Tony Award for his contributions to the theater.

Astaire’s connection to London was further acknowledged in 1987 when he was posthumously inducted into the Theatre Hall of Fame at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. This recognition celebrated his significant impact on the West End and his enduring legacy in the world of theater.

Fred Astaire’s London Legacy

Fred Astaire’s love for London and his contributions to the West End theater scene are integral parts of his legacy. His performances in London helped shape his career and introduced him to international audiences. The elegance and sophistication he brought to his roles on the West End and in Hollywood continue to inspire performers and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Astaire’s association with Savile Row further cemented his status as a style icon. His preference for bespoke tailoring and his innovative fashion choices set new standards for elegance and sophistication. Astaire’s ability to combine style with functionality, particularly in his dance performances, remains a benchmark for performers and fashion designers.