The ‘Roaring Twenties’; what comes to mind when you hear that term? Jazz, liquor, and rolled stockings are just a few of the things I immediately think of. That’s surface level thinking; if you really want to understand the zeitgeist of the era, you have to dig deeper and take a look at events, ideas, social groups, attitudes, and technology of the time. I’m taking a closer look at the 1920’s to really understand the spirit of the times.


            To set the stage for the 1920’s is the end of World War I. This began a time of wealth, extravagance, fun, opulence, and change; the decade was a celebration! Only at this party, liquor was outlawed through the Prohibition in 1919. I know that would never fly in 2012, and it didn’t go over well back then either. This led to the popularity of the speakeasy – an illegal drinking and dancing club. People came to listen to jazz and dance the Charleston. Another important amendment to note is the 19th which gave women the right to vote. Women felt unrestricted and bold; this new woman was known as “The flapper”. She cut her hair, danced, smoke and drank. The radio, automobile and sewing machine were widespread at this time. 


            Drastic changes in fashion were slow coming however. It wasn’t until 1925 that the public fully accepted new changes in fashion. The flappers wanted a boyish, slim figure and wore shapeless dresses decorated with fringe and beads. The hemline rose to above the knee and the waistline dropped; this change allowed for freedom of movement. The bob haircut, lipstick, and the cloche hat are all styles of the flapper. Designers of the time included Madeleine Vionnet, Paul Poiret, Coco Chanel, and Jean Patou. Coco Chanel really embraced a fashion change when she designed pants for women out of her famous jersey knit. More women were working after the war, and it was practical for them to wear pants. She also popularized costume jewelry with her signature string of pearls. Fashion icons of the age included Joan Crawford, Anita Page, and Clara Bow who all had a very glamorous look. Another important movement to note is Art Deco. Geometric shapes, sweeping lines, and symmetry appeared not only in fashion, but also architecture, art, and interior design. A geometric motif can be seen in this dress by Vionnet with beautiful beads.

            Many styles from the 1920’s are still popular today. Some trends for fall such as fur, and extreme embellishments stem from this decade. Geometric prints fit in with today’s obsession with pattern play. Costume jewelry is still a great alternative for women who want to look sumptuous without breaking the bank. Women wearing pants, and men’s classic suits are both still acceptable in today’s society. The Great Gatsby remake set for 2013 has already got the fashion world buzzing about the splendid costumes. This excitement will spillover to the mainstream – what modern woman wouldn’t want to emulate Daisy Buchanan’s style?