It's Happening: Roaring 20s Fashion; the Design, the History, the Appeal
By Julie Perine on December 06, 2022 from It’s Happening
It was a roaring decade – the 1920s. And fashion reflected it. The economy was booming, and hemlines were rising. The straight, loose-fitting, drop-waist flapper dress was all the rage, thanks to changing social status and designers including Coco Chanel. The dresses were crafted of taffeta, velvet, or chiffon with plenty of embellishments – from feathers and fringe to rhinestones.
A hundred years later, the look is still sought after. And what better time to dress head to toe in Roaring 20s fashion than the Feb. 4 Holly Ball at The Morris.
The style is more accessible than one might think.
“Everyone associates fringe with the Roaring 20s, which in a way is funny,” said Keri Snell, owner of House of Fashions boutique. “Fringe is really in style right now, not only on skirts, but on the top part of the dress. Everything comes back around.”
The fringe look has been modernized; now a look that includes beading. And those raised hemlines of the 1920s have certainly raised some more.
“In the Roaring 20s, dresses were below the knee, but now obviously they are above the knee,” Snell said. “And though back then, they didn’t wear a lot of floor-length dresses – unless it was a very formal event – it doesn’t mean it’s not appropriate to wear a long gown to a Roaring 20s event.”
As for accessories, Snell said beaded, sequined or feathered headbands – worn over the hair – are ideal.
“Some of them would have large floral pieces that I would describe as architectural – almost like art deco,” Snell said. “Feather boas were really hot, as were long pearl necklaces, tassels, and long, over-the-elbow gloves.”
As for the guys, three-piece suits are reflective of the Roaring 20s.
“Men wore matching pants and jackets, and vests with pocket watches, pocket squares, or a little boutonniere to match the girl. If she had a feather in her head piece, he might have a feather in his flower,” Snell said.
The matching three-piece ensemble is also coming back in style, typically in solids.
“Obviously, pinstriping was in back then, but that isn’t the case for us now.”
Whether you seek authentic Roaring 20s style or decide to modernize your look, remember what Coco Chanel once said: “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.”
The 2023 Holly Ball, sponsored by the Auxiliary to United Hospital Center and a fundraiser for UHC, returns to an in-person event after two years of COVID-safe, pick-up-style events.
It promises to be a roaring good time. Only 350 tickets will be sold at $100 each. In addition to dinner featuring the culinary expertise of Fish Hawk Acres, dancing to the tunes of Crimson Reign and an auction featuring amazing items, there will be many special touches to create a speakeasy atmosphere.
Purchase tickets or serve as a sponsor to this unique social event by visiting uhchollyball.com.
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