Flapper dance costumes

Types of flapper dance costumes

The flapper dance costumes are outfits that were used during the roaring twenties jazz age. They are shiny dresses with fringes, beads, and sequins. They enable the dancers to move freely and look outstanding. Below are some types of Flapper outfits.

• Classic Cotton Sequined Flapper Dress

  The dress is knee-length with an off-the-shoulder design and sequins that are hand sewn. It comes in different colors like black, red, and white. The fringes are sewn on the bottom part of the dress, and it has an inner lining for comfort. This classic cotton sequined flapper dress is ideal for the 1920s themed party.

• Plus Size Black Beaded Fringe Flapper Dress

  This is a plus-size outfit with sizes ranging from 14 to 26. It has tiny beads and fringes to enable the plus-size dancers to perform without restrictions. The dress is black and has two lengths; knee-length and mid-calf. It is made of polyester material.

• Red Hot Flapper Dress

  This dress is for daring dancers. It is red with fringes and beads. It is made of cotton material and comes in small, medium, and large sizes. The dress is short, above the knee, and ideal for the Roaring 20's party.

• Blue Sequined Flapper Dress

  This dress is for men and women who love the color blue. It is knee-length with off-the-shoulder and hand-sewn sequins. The dress has fringes and is lined for comfort. It is ideal for 1920s parties.

• Black Cotton Flapper Dress

  This is a short black dress with fringes and sequins. It is made of cotton material and comes in small, medium, and large sizes. It is ideal for the 1920s party.

• Black Sequin Flapper Dress

  This is a short dress with sequins and fringes. It is made of polyester material and comes in 14 to 26 sizes. It is ideal for the 1920s party.

• Gold Sequin Flapper Dress

  For those who want to dazzle in gold, the gold sequin flapper dress is the perfect choice. This dress is adorned with shimmering gold sequins and is knee-length with fringes. It is made of polyester material and is perfect for 1920s-themed parties.

• White Sequined Flapper Dress

  The white sequined flapper dress is a stunning choice for those who want to make a statement in style. This dress features sequins and beads and is knee-length with an off-the-shoulder design. It is lined for comfort and has fringes. It is perfect for Roaring 20's parties.

Design of flapper dance costumes

The design of flapper dance costumes is lively, and it’s characterized by the following elements:

• Ragtime

  The clothes were made of cheap fabric such as cotton or any synthetic material. They were designed to be loose fitting with large pockets to allow for easy movement, and the colors were bright and clashing. The patterns were geometrical, and the fringes and beads were added to keep the clothes lively. Accessories included a long string of pearls, a cloche hat, and a pair of low-heeled shoes, which were practical for dancing and walking. The makeup was minimal, consisting of powder, rouge, and lipstick, and the hair was bobbed and often hidden under a hat. The overall look was healthy, and the clothes reflected the active lifestyle of the dancers."

• Blues

  Blues costumes were made of materials like satin and silk and were tight fitting to accentuate the wearer's body. The colors were dark and rich, and the patterns were plain with fringes and beads that made the clothes look more elegant. The accessories included a sequined headband, a pair of t-strap shoes, and a long string of pearls, which suited the formal look. The makeup was more pronounced than that of the dancers, consisting of dark eye makeup, red lipstick, and powdery skin. The hair was styled in finger waves and kept away from the face. The overall appearance was glamorous, and the clothes suited the sultry style of the music.

• Jazz

  These costumes were made of materials such as sequined, satin, or velvet and were form fitting, designed to move with the wearer's body. The colors were bright and varied, the patterns were plain, and fringes and beads were used to create a dynamic appearance. Among the accessories were headbands with sequins, jazz shoes, and cloche hats, which complemented the playful and vibrant aesthetic. Heavy eye makeup, bright lipstick, and a dusting of powder made for a dramatic face. The hair was styled in loose curls or waves. The overall look was energetic, and the costumes matched the lively nature of jazz music.

• Vaudeville

  These costumes were made of luxurious fabrics like velvet and satin and were designed to be form fitting but also to allow for some movement. They were often adorned with sequins, beads, and fringes. Accessories might include feather boas, cloche hats, and t-strap shoes, all of which contributed to a glamorous and theatrical look. Makeup was dramatic, featuring dark eyes, bright lips, and powdered skin. Hair was typically styled in finger waves or updos. The overall effect was one of elegance and sophistication, perfectly suited to the variety and theatrical performances of vaudeville.

Wearing/Matching suggestions of flapper dance costumes

For a complete and authentic 1920s look, it's essential to pay attention to the details beyond the dress itself. Here are some matching suggestions to help one achieve the full flapper ensemble:

• Accessories:

  A long strand of pearls or beaded necklace adds elegance and can be doubled or tripled for a different effect. A feathered or beaded headband worn across the forehead is a signature accessory for flappers. Complete the look with a pair of long, fringed earrings that sway with movement or Art Deco-style earrings for a touch of glamour. A small, beaded clutch purse is practical and matches the vintage style. Consider wearing a long cigarette holder (without actual cigarettes) for an iconic 1920s flair. Add a pair of vintage-inspired gloves, either short or long, for a sophisticated touch.

• Shoes:

  Choose T-strap or Mary Jane heels that were popular in the 1920s. Opt for shoes with a modest heel for comfort while dancing. Metallic or beaded shoes complement the flapper dress's embellishments. Ensure the shoes fit well and provide support for extended wear during events or parties. Consider dance-friendly shoes if one plans to dance extensively in the costume. Shoes should match the color scheme of the dress and accessories for a cohesive look.

• Makeup:

  Flapper makeup is characterized by dark, smoky eyes with bold eyeliner and mascara. Create a dramatic look with deep red or crimson lipstick that defines the lips clearly. Pale foundation or powder gives a smooth complexion, and a little blush adds color to the cheeks. Consider a short bob wig or style hair in loose waves to mimic the 1920s hairstyle. Use a headband or cloche hat to complement the hairstyle and complete the flapper appearance. Keep makeup bold and striking to match the overall flapper aesthetic.

• Hair:

  Flapper hairstyles include bobbed hair, often styled in loose waves. Finger waves are another classic style that adds vintage flair. For long hair, consider pinning it up in a low bun or ponytail while leaving some hair loose to resemble the shorter bobbed style. Use hair accessories like headbands or cloche hats to enhance the flapper look. Experiment with different hairstyles before the event to find one that complements the dress and accessories. Hair should be well-groomed and styled to match the 1920s theme.

Q&A

Q1: What are the main elements of a Flapper costume?

A1: A typical Flapper outfit incorporates a beaded sequined dress, a strand of pearls, a feather headpiece, and a long cigarette holder. Accessories are equally important, and period shoes have T-straps and low heels.

Q2: What characterizes the 1920s Flapper dresses?

A2: Flapper dresses from the 1920s are characterized by their loose fit, low waistline, and knee-length hem. They featured innovative materials, such as sequins and beads, which made the dresses glimmer with movement.

Q3: What colors are associated with Flapper costumes?

A3: The Flapper costumes used vibrant colors like black, gold, silver, red, and teal. These colors mirror the lively and rebellious spirit of the era.

Q4: What is the significance of fringe on a Flapper costume?

A4: The fringe on a Flapper costume is significant because it symbolizes the energetic and liberated spirit of the Flapper women. It also adds movement to the outfit, making it perfect for dancing the Charleston and other jazz age dances.

Q5: Are Flapper costumes authentic to the 1920s?

A5: While modern interpretations of Flapper costumes are inspired by the 1920s, some historical accuracy is sacrificed for practicality and aesthetic appeal. Nevertheless, authentic vintage pieces are available, although they are rare and often expensive.