If you’re a big fan of vintage fashion, you’ll love the Women’s 20s Fashion trend. From flapper dresses to cloche hats, the Roaring Twenties brought a variety of styles that are still popular today. The 20s were known for their luxurious, glitzy look and feel, with an emphasis on beaded detailing, silk fabrics and art deco patterns. Whether you’re looking to put together a Gatsby-esque outfit for a party or just want to add some vintage vibes to your wardrobe, 20s fashion is the perfect way to do it.
The Flapper Look
Women’s 20s fashion is all about the flapper look, inspired by the trendsetters of the time who were breaking free from traditional gender roles and societal norms. The flapper look is characterized by short haircuts, dropped waistlines, and daring accessories that really made a statement.
The Hair
The most defining feature of the flapper look was the iconic bob haircut, which was a drastic departure from the long, flowing locks that had been popular up until that point. The bob was a symbol of rebellion and freedom, and it was a very bold and daring look for women to embrace at the time. It was often accompanied by bangs or a short, side-parted fringe, which added to the overall youthful and carefree vibe of the era.
The Clothes
The fashion of the 1920s was all about breaking away from traditional restrictions, and this was reflected in the clothes that women wore during this time. The unstructured, loose-fitting garments like shift dresses, drop-waist dresses, and pleated skirts were a stark contrast to the tight corsets and petticoats that had been popular in previous years. The flapper dress was also sleeveless, which was another daring choice that showed off a woman’s arms and emphasized the androgynous look of the era.
The Accessories
The flapper look was all about making a statement, and this was achieved through bold accessories like long necklaces, feather boas, and cloche hats. These accessories were often worn all at once, which might seem overwhelming today, but it was the perfect way for women to really embrace their newfound sense of individuality and self-expression.
Materials and Fabrics
The 1920s was an era of excitement, liberation, and glamour, and the fashion of the time was no exception. Women’s fashion, in particular, was a reflection of the changing times, with flapper dresses and shorter hemlines replacing the traditional long gowns of the past. One of the key elements of 1920s fashion was the materials and fabrics used.
Popular Fabrics of the 1920s
The fabrics of the time had to be lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, as women started to break free from the constraints of corsets and petticoats. Here are some of the most popular fabrics of the 1920s:
- Silk: Perhaps the most quintessential fabric of the time, silk was used in everything from dresses to blouses to lingerie. It was prized for its luxurious feel, soft texture, and shimmering appearance, and came in a range of colors and prints.
- Velvet: Velvet was another popular choice for 1920s women’s fashion, as it added a sense of richness and depth to any outfit. Most often used for evening wear, velvet dresses and coats were often embellished with sequins and beads to further enhance the glamour factor.
- Chiffon: Lightweight and sheer, chiffon was perfect for the loose, flowing dresses and blouses that were in vogue during the 1920s. The delicate fabric was often draped over other materials, such as silk or satin, to create interesting contrasts and textures.
- Lace: Lace was a popular fabric for women’s undergarments and accessories, such as gloves and hats. Women also wore lace dresses and blouses for more formal occasions, often paired with pearls or other jewelry.
- Cotton: While silk and velvet were considered the epitome of luxury, cotton was still a practical choice for everyday wear. The fabric was often used for blouses and skirts, and came in a variety of colors and prints.
The fabrics of the 1920s reflected the changing attitudes of women at the time, with a focus on comfort, freedom, and individual expression.
The Rise of Ready-to-Wear
During the 1920s, the fashion industry underwent a significant transformation. Ready-to-wear clothing became more affordable and accessible, thanks to mass production techniques that allowed for quicker and cheaper production of clothing.
Impact of World War I
The end of World War I brought about changes in the fashion industry. As women began entering the workforce, they needed clothing that was practical and durable. At the same time, they also wanted to look fashionable.
With more women in the workforce, there was a demand for clothing that was easy to wear, and that could transition from day to night. Manufacturers began to produce clothing that was more functional, with simpler designs and less ornate details.
The Role of Mass Production
Mass production techniques allowed for the increased production of clothing, making it possible for manufacturers to produce garments in larger quantities. The introduction of the assembly line made it easier and more efficient to produce clothing, reducing labor costs and making clothing more affordable.
- Another innovation was the use of standardized sizes for clothing. This meant that women could order clothing by size, rather than needing to have custom-made garments. The introduction of this standardization made clothing more accessible to a wider range of women, and helped to establish the ready-to-wear fashion industry as we know it today.
Innovative Designs
During this time period, women’s clothing became more streamlined, with shapes becoming more linear and less curved, compared to the previous era’s “La Belle Époque” fashion. Hemlines began to rise, and dresses became shorter, reflecting the changing attitudes towards women’s roles in society.
Designers such as Coco Chanel and Jean Patou were at the forefront of this change, creating clothing that was both stylish and functional. Chanel popularized the use of jersey fabric, which was comfortable and stretchy, and created clothing that was inspired by menswear, with features such as collarless jackets and straight, slimming lines.
The rise of the ready-to-wear fashion industry during the 1920s marked a significant shift in the way that women dressed, making it possible for them to have fashionable clothing that was affordable and practical.
Dress for the Occasion
Dressing in the style of the roaring twenties can be a fun and exciting way to express your fashion sense. With flapper dresses, beaded headbands, and feather boas, the 1920s fashion era was all about embracing individuality and breaking free from tradition.
Casual Daytime Outings
When dressing for casual daytime outings during the 1920s, opt for a simple yet classy look. Women would often wear knee-length dresses with drop waists, loafers, and cloche hats. You could also add a touch of glamour by accessorizing with a string of pearls or a brooch.
Glamorous Evening Events
Glamorous evening events during the 1920s called for women to dress in their most elegant attire. Long beaded chiffon dresses with plunging necklines and low backs were all the rage. For a more modern twist, you could choose a dress with fringe detailing on the hemline or sleeves. Don’t forget to add some sparkle with a statement necklace or earrings!
Weddings
Weddings during the 1920s were often extravagant affairs. Brides would wear long white gowns with dropped waists and intricate lace detailing. To add some glamour to your own wedding attire, try accessorizing with a sparkly headband or a pair of art deco-inspired earrings.
Beach Outings
Beach outings during the 1920s called for more relaxed and comfortable attire. Women would often wear high-waisted shorts and sleeveless tops made from lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton. Add a touch of glamour with a wide-brimmed hat or round sunglasses.
Accessories Galore
Women’s 20s fashion was all about the accessories that helped complete the look of the era. The 1920s were marked by an air of confidence and liberation post-World War I, and fashion mirrored the newfound freedom women experienced. While clothing styles were definitely different than those that came before, accessories played the starring role in this era.
Must-Have Accessories
A woman going out during this decade was expected to wear many items to complete her look, including a signature cloche hat with a close fit that covered the forehead and ears, making for a sleek and chic appearance. Long necklaces were also a hallmark of this time, which were often made of pearls and draped down to the waist. The cigarette holder was also a must-have accessory, following the lead of famous and stylish women of the time like Coco Chanel.
Cloche Hats
The cloche hat was one of the most popular accessories during the 1920s women’s fashion movement. This tight-fitting hat exuded glamour and sophistication while still being comfortable to wear and practical. It could make an appearance in any number of materials and colors and was often adorned in varying ways with feathers, bows, and ribbons.
Long Necklaces
Long necklaces were also an essential part of a fashionable 1920s outfit, as it lent a sense of elegance and refinement to the overall look. Pearls, gold chains and multiple strands were some of the most popular long necklace styles. Women would layer necklaces in various lengths, which added to their allure and sophistication.
Cigarette Holders
Cigarette holders were a symbol of luxury and glamour during the 1920s and served as both a trendy accessory and a practical device for smoking. These long, thin devices were often made of different materials like ivory, wood, and bakelite and ranged in price from affordable to very expensive. Celebrities of the era like Marlene Dietrich and Bette Davis elevated the cigarette holder to a fashion statement.
Bringing 1920s Fashion into the 21st Century
The fashion of the roaring twenties was an iconic era known for revolutionizing women’s fashion. From shorter hemlines to looser silhouettes, 1920s fashion was bold and daring for its time. Today, the vintage-inspired look is making a comeback, so here’s how to incorporate 1920s fashion into your modern-day wardrobe.
Mixing and Matching Pieces
One way to incorporate 1920s fashion into your modern wardrobe is to mix and match pieces from the era with contemporary styles. Start by adding a flapper-style dress with a modern leather jacket or pairing a vintage beaded blouse with skinny jeans. You can also accessorize with a statement headband or cloche hat to complete the look.
Accessorizing with a Nod to the Past
Accessories can make or break an outfit, so it’s no surprise that they play a big role in bringing 1920s fashion into your modern-day wardrobe. Add a touch of the era with a beaded necklace or a long string of pearls. You can also incorporate art deco-inspired jewelry or a classic wristwatch. Another way to complete your outfit is to carry a beaded clutch or a vintage-inspired handbag.
Incorporating 1920s Fashion into Workwear
Who says you can’t bring the 1920s to the office? Incorporate the vintage-inspired look into your workwear by choosing pieces with a nod to the past. For example, you can pair a high-waisted skirt or a pair of wide-leg trousers with a modern blouse. You can also accessorize with a statement brooch or a scarf to complete the look.
Choosing the Right Fabrics
When it comes to fabrics, choose pieces that have a vintage feel. Look for pieces in silk, velvet, or lace. You can also choose pieces with beading or embroidery to add a touch of glamour. Avoid synthetic fabrics as they tend to look too modern for the vintage look you’re going for.
Hairstyles and Makeup
Complete your roaring twenties look with the right hairstyling and makeup. For hairstyles, consider a faux bob, finger waves, or a sleek chignon. For makeup, choose bold and dramatic looks with dark lipstick and smoky eyes.
Going All Out for a Themed Event
If you are attending a themed event, going all out with 1920s fashion is a great idea. Look for flapper-style dresses with fringe and beading or go for a drop waist dress. Accessorize with feathered headbands, long dangling earrings, and layers of pearl necklaces or a long cigarette holder to complete the look.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Can I wear 20s fashion in modern times? | Absolutely! 20s fashion has made a comeback in recent years and is a trendy choice for many modern women. |
| Where can I buy 20s fashion? | You can find 20s-inspired fashion at many retailers, both in-store and online. Check out vintage clothing stores or specific retailers that specialize in 20s fashion for the best selection. |
| What kind of accessories should I wear with 20s fashion? | Feather boas, art deco jewelry, and vintage-inspired hats are all great choices to pair with 20s fashion. |
| Can I wear 20s fashion to a formal event? | Definitely! 20s fashion is perfect for formal events and will make you stand out in a sea of traditional black gowns. |
| What hairstyles were popular in the 20s? | Short bobs, finger waves, and curls were all popular hairstyles for women in the 20s. |
| Can I mix 20s fashion with modern pieces? | Yes! Mixing 20s fashion with modern pieces is a great way to add a unique spin to your outfit and make it more wearable for everyday occasions. |
Thanks for Stopping By!
We hope you enjoyed reading about women’s 20s fashion and are inspired to try out this vintage-inspired trend. Dressing in 20s fashion is a fun way to transport yourself to a different era and showcase your unique sense of style. Don’t forget to check back soon for more fashion tips and advice!
