Roaring 20s Dress To Impress

Roaring Twenties Dress to Impress: A Guide to Flapper Glamour and Beyond

The Roaring Twenties – an era of jazz, flapper dresses, and unprecedented societal shifts. This period holds a captivating allure, inspiring countless interpretations in fashion, music, and art. If you're aiming to truly impress with a Roaring Twenties look, it’s about more than just throwing on a beaded dress. It's about understanding the nuances of the style, capturing its rebellious spirit, and tailoring it to your modern sensibilities. This comprehensive guide dives deep into recreating the iconic looks of the 1920s, offering advice on choosing the perfect garments, accessorizing like a pro, and mastering the overall aesthetic.

Understanding the Roaring Twenties Aesthetic

The 1920s witnessed a dramatic break from the restrictive fashions of the Victorian era. Women, newly empowered by suffrage and social change, embraced a style that reflected their newfound freedom. Key characteristics of the Roaring Twenties aesthetic include:

• The Flapper Dress: The quintessential symbol of the era, characterized by its loose, knee-length (or even shorter!) silhouette, dropped waistline, and often embellished with beads, sequins, or fringe. These dresses allowed for greater freedom of movement, reflecting the energetic dances of the time, like the Charleston.

• Shifting Silhouettes: The emphasis shifted from the corseted hourglass figure to a slimmer, boyish silhouette. This is not to say that curves were unwelcome, but the focus moved away from accentuating them drastically.

• Luxurious Fabrics: Rich fabrics like silk, satin, and velvet were popular choices, contributing to the overall sense of glamour and opulence.

• Bold Colors and Patterns: While black was always a classic choice, vibrant colours such as emerald green, ruby red, sapphire blue, and gold were also widely embraced. Geometric patterns and Art Deco motifs were particularly fashionable.

• Art Deco Influence: The Art Deco movement, with its emphasis on geometric shapes, streamlined forms, and luxurious materials, heavily influenced the fashion of the Roaring Twenties. This influence can be seen in jewelry, accessories, and the overall design aesthetic of garments.

Crafting the Perfect Roaring Twenties Look: A Step-by-Step Guide

Recreating a convincing Roaring Twenties look requires attention to detail. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you nail the style:

1. Choosing the Dress: Flapper and Beyond

The flapper dress is the cornerstone of any 1920s ensemble. Consider these factors when selecting yours:

• Length: While knee-length was standard, shorter hemlines were also common, particularly for dancing.

• Neckline: V-necks, scoop necks, and even sleeveless styles were all popular.

• Embellishments: Beading, sequins, fringe, and lace added that extra touch of glamour. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different levels of embellishment. A simple dress with subtle beading can be just as effective as a heavily adorned one.

• Fabric: Opt for fabrics that drape well, such as silk, chiffon, or crepe.

Beyond the classic flapper dress, consider other styles prevalent in the 1920s:

• Drop-waist dresses: These dresses, with their empire waistline just below the bust, were incredibly flattering and highlighted the figure beautifully.

• Long beaded gowns: For more formal occasions, a long beaded gown could be perfect. These gowns captured the era’s luxurious flair and elegance.

• Tea dresses: These dresses were more casual but still retained the era’s style elements, featuring shorter sleeves and simple designs.

Remember to choose a dress that fits your body type and personal style. The goal is to feel comfortable and confident in your outfit.

2. Mastering the Accessories: The Finishing Touches

Accessories are crucial for completing your Roaring Twenties look. The right accessories can elevate a simple dress to a show-stopping ensemble. Here’s what to consider:

• Headwear: A cloche hat was the quintessential headwear of the era, often made of felt or velvet and close-fitting. Feather boas, bandeaux, and headbands with jewels were also popular choices.

• Jewelry: Long beaded necklaces, art deco brooches, and drop earrings were fashionable accessories. Look for pieces with geometric shapes and bold colours. Long pearl necklaces were another classic choice.

• Shoes: Mary Janes, T-strap shoes, and ankle strap heels with low to moderate heels were commonly worn. Choose shoes that complement your dress and complete your overall look. Remember the shoe should complement the era and not clash. Avoid overly modern designs.

• Gloves: Long gloves were often worn, especially for formal occasions.

• Handbags: Small, beaded or jeweled purses were popular accessories.

3. Hair and Makeup: Embracing the Era's Glamour

The Roaring Twenties hairstyle and makeup were just as iconic as the clothing.

• Hair: Short, bobbed hair was the hallmark of the flapper hairstyle. Waves, finger waves, and marcel waves were stylish ways to style the bob. Headbands and hair accessories were used to further enhance the look.

• Makeup: The makeup of the 1920s was characterized by a defined, but subtly glamorous look. Focus on:

  • Defined eyebrows: Arched and carefully shaped eyebrows were a must.
  • Dark, smoky eyes: Use dark eyeshadow, such as charcoal or deep brown, to create a smoky effect.
  • Red lips: Bold red lipstick was the key to completing the look.
  • Rouged cheeks: A touch of blush on the cheeks added a healthy glow.

4. Posture and Movement: The Unspoken Elegance

The Roaring Twenties weren't just about the clothes; they were about a particular attitude and style of movement. Practice the following:

• Posture: Stand tall with your shoulders back and your chin up. A confident posture is crucial for embodying the spirit of the era.

• Movement: Move gracefully and with intention. The flapper dance style was characterized by its fluid and energetic movements, a stark contrast to the more reserved movements of previous decades.

Beyond the Flapper Dress: Exploring Different Roaring Twenties Styles

While the flapper dress is synonymous with the Roaring Twenties, the era encompassed a wider range of styles. Consider these alternatives for a unique and sophisticated approach:

• The tailored suit: For a more androgynous look, consider a tailored suit with a dropped waistline. This was particularly popular among women who embraced a more rebellious and independent style.

• The long beaded gown: For special events, a long, beaded gown exudes old-world glamour and sophistication, reflecting the luxurious side of the era.

• The casual day dress: For everyday wear, opt for a more casual dress in a simple style but with subtle nods to the era, like a drop waist or subtle embellishments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Where can I find authentic Roaring Twenties clothing?

A: While finding truly authentic garments can be challenging, vintage shops and online marketplaces often have vintage-inspired or even original pieces. You can also consider bespoke tailoring to create a unique piece based on vintage patterns.

Q: Can I adapt the Roaring Twenties style to modern occasions?

A: Absolutely! You can easily adapt elements of the Roaring Twenties style for modern events. A flapper-inspired dress can be dressed up for a formal occasion or dressed down for a more casual event.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when dressing in a Roaring Twenties style?

A: Avoid overly modern accessories or hairstyles. Stick to the era-appropriate details for an authentic look. Avoid clashing styles and colors – maintaining a cohesive look is key.

Q: Is it important to be accurate with the historical details?

A: Accuracy is appreciated, but the primary goal is to capture the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. A modern interpretation is acceptable as long as it stays true to the era's overall aesthetic.

Conclusion: Embracing the Roaring Twenties Spirit

Dressing to impress in a Roaring Twenties style is about more than just wearing the clothes; it’s about embodying the spirit of an era defined by change, freedom, and undeniable glamour. By understanding the key elements of the aesthetic, selecting the right garments and accessories, and mastering the era's signature hairstyle and makeup, you can create a look that’s both historically inspired and strikingly modern. So, embrace your inner flapper, and let the Roaring Twenties inspire your next unforgettable look. Remember, confidence is the ultimate accessory, so own the style and own the era!