Final answer:
The Prince of Wales influenced 1920s fashion by popularizing a more relaxed and less formal style for men, which resonated with the general shift towards comfort and practicality in clothing post-World War I.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Prince of Wales had significant influence on fashion in the 1920s. During that era, men's fashion was profoundly impacted by his style choices, which often set trends followed by society.
As the heir to the British throne, his public appearances were highly visible and his sartorial choices were emulated by the masses. His preference for less formal attire and a more relaxed look contributed to the shift from the stiff and formal clothing that had been dominant to more comfortable and casual styles.
This was especially poignant during an era where society was shedding the constraints of the Victorian and Edwardian periods and moving towards modernity, partly influenced by the changes brought about by World War I.
Women's fashion also shifted dramatically during this time, emphasizing a sense of freedom through simpler, more comfortable clothes, aligning with the newfound independence women were experiencing post-war.
Key to this transformation was the emergence of the flapper style, which embraced straight lines, shorter hair, and dresses that minimized the hips, reflecting new societal norms and the rise of dance culture.
The Prince of Wales's fashion influence was a part of this larger societal change that saw a move away from restrictive garments like corsets, towards a fashion landscape that allowed for greater movement and expression.