The Roaring Twenties ushered in an era of unprecedented social change, translating into a glamorous aesthetic defined by jazz, opulence, and a spirit of rebellion. Dressing for a Gatsby-themed event means embracing the decadence and freedom of the Jazz Age, moving away from restrictive fashions. The style featured a sleek, modern silhouette that allowed for movement, reflecting the energetic dance culture of the time. This guide provides the details necessary to capture the authentic look of a 1920s socialite or gentleman.
The Iconic Women’s Look
The defining garment for women was the flapper dress, which abandoned the corseted, hourglass figure for a liberated, straight silhouette. This style featured a dropped waistline, often resting at the hip, and a loose fit that hung straight from the shoulders, allowing for energetic movement during dances like the Charleston. Hemlines were revolutionary, rising to the knee in the mid-1920s, though calf-length dresses were common earlier in the decade.
Evening wear featured lavish surface decoration, transforming the simple shape into a dazzling spectacle. Dresses were embellished with shimmering sequins, intricate beading, and long fringe that swayed with every step. Popular fabrics included lightweight materials like chiffon, silk, crepe, and velvet, which draped elegantly and enhanced the luxurious feel.
The color palette for evening attire was rich and bold, moving away from muted pastels. Metallics like gold and silver were favored for their reflective quality under electric lights, symbolizing the era’s prosperity and glamour. Deep jewel tones, such as ruby red, emerald green, and sapphire blue, were also popular choices, often paired with black or cream for contrast. For outerwear, a feather boa or a faux fur wrap provided dramatic flair and warmth over sleeveless evening dresses.
Essential Men’s Attire
Men’s fashion centered on the tailored three-piece suit, which included a jacket, trousers, and a waistcoat, projecting refined sophistication. Suits were often made from textured fabrics like tweed, wool, or herringbone. Patterns were a hallmark of the era, with pinstripes, chalk stripes, and subtle plaids being common choices that added visual interest to the ensemble.
For an authentic Gatsby-esque look, especially for a summer party, a cream or white linen suit is the ultimate choice, reflecting the leisure class aesthetic. The waistcoat, or vest, was an indispensable component, typically featuring a high V-neck and worn buttoned up, as exposing the dress shirt beneath was considered less formal. For the most formal evening events, the classic black or white dinner jacket, part of the black tie ensemble, remains the appropriate and most elegant option.
Shirts were traditionally collared, sometimes featuring detachable collars for ease of cleaning and a crisp appearance. Trousers were often high-waisted and featured a wider cut than modern styles, sometimes with pleats, contributing to a relaxed yet tailored silhouette. The overall look was polished and intentional, emphasizing a departure from the stiff formality of the previous decade.
Accessories and Footwear
Accessories are fundamental to completing the 1920s look for both men and women, adding necessary period-specific detail. For women, headwear is paramount, with beaded headbands, feathered clips, or cloche hats being the most recognizable options. Jewelry should focus on long, layered strands of pearls, and Art Deco-inspired bracelets and statement earrings featuring geometric designs.
Long gloves, often reaching past the elbow, were a common accessory for women, particularly when paired with a sleeveless dress. Small, decorative clutch bags were carried, and a prop like a long cigarette holder can enhance the flapper persona. Footwear consisted of T-strap heels or Mary Janes, which offered stability for dancing while maintaining an elegant appearance.
For men, neckwear was limited to a bow tie or, for a more formal look, a white ascot. Suspenders were worn instead of belts to hold up the high-waisted trousers. A pocket square added a splash of color or pattern to the jacket. Cuff links and a pocket watch with a chain draped across the vest are small details that elevate the attire. Headwear included the fedora or the Panama hat, and the look is finished with two-tone spectator shoes or classic leather oxfords.
Hair, Makeup, and Grooming
The final elements of the 1920s aesthetic are found in the intentional styling of hair and makeup, which defined the era’s liberated spirit. Women’s hairstyles were short, with the bob being the most popular cut, often styled into precise, sculpted finger waves that framed the face. For those with longer hair, a faux bob or an updo styled with finger waves achieved the same sleek, period-appropriate look.
Makeup was bold and dramatic, a stark contrast to minimal styles of the past, featuring a pale, matte complexion achieved with face powder. The eyes were heavily defined with a smoky look using dark kohl or black eyeshadow. Lips were painted into a distinct, smaller “cupid’s bow” shape using deep red or burgundy shades, while eyebrows were plucked thin and drawn in a downward arch.
Men’s grooming was equally polished, emphasizing a clean and intentional appearance. Hair was slicked back using pomade or a similar product to achieve a smooth, high-shine finish. The face was generally clean-shaven, though a neatly trimmed, thin mustache was a period-appropriate option.