Flapper dresses 1920s

Types of 1920s flapper dresses

The flapper dresses of the 1920s were a variety of dresses that were worn by young women of the era. Generally, they were short, with the hemline above the knee, and were accompanied by loose-fitting, low-waist, and commonly belted at the hip. The dresses were ornamented with beads, sequins, and fringes, which added to the energetic style of the decade. Here are some of the types of flapper dresses:

• Beaded Flapper Dress: The beaded flapper dress is one of the most popular dresses in the 1920s, and it comes with intricate beadwork. These dresses mostly have elaborate beadwork on the bodice or the hemline, and they are worn by women who are in formal occasions during the 1920s. The beads are usually small, and they are arranged in patterns, which add to the glamour of the dress.
• Fringe Flapper Dress: The fringe flapper dress is another iconic style from the 1920s, and it comes with fringes that are moved when one walks. These dresses were popular in the 1920s during the Jazz Age and were worn while dancing. The fringes are usually located on the hemline or the sleeves, and they add a playful touch to the clothes.
• Sequined Flapper Dress: The sequined flapper dress is a glittery dress that comes with sequin embellishments. These dresses are usually worn during formal events, and they have sequins that are arranged in patterns or designs. The sequined flapper dress is a symbol of the glamour and sophistication of the 1920s.
• Silk Flapper Dress: The silk flapper dress is a luxurious dress made from silk fabric. These dresses are light and drape beautifully, and they are worn by women who are in formal occasions during the 1920s. The silk fabric also has a sheen that adds to the elegance of the dress.
• Strapless Flapper Dress: The strapless flapper dress is a daring style for the 1920s that highlights the bare shoulders. These dresses are mostly worn by women who are in formal occasions during the 1920s, and they have beautiful embroidery or sequins on the bodice. The strapless design also adds a touch of sophistication to the dress.

Design of flapper dresses from the 1920s

Flapper dresses for the 1920s are easily recognized because they have particular styles. Here are the design aspects:

• Style

  Flapper dresses are loose, straight-cut dresses that don't outline the curves of a woman's body. The style is androgynous, which is different from the fitted clothes that used to be in style. The waistline is dropped, and the hemline is above the knee, which was shocking at the time. The design of the flapper dress is revolutionary as it gives women freedom to move.

• Fabric and Texture

  Flapper dresses are made of different fabrics like silk, satin, and rayon. These fabrics are smooth and shiny, which gives the dress a luxurious look. The texture is often soft and flowing, which enhances the loose and relaxed style. Some dresses have velvet fabric, which is rich and warm. Others have floral patterns while some are plain.

• Color Palette

  Flapper dresses have a vibrant color palette. The colors are bold and eye-catching. The dresses have bright colors such as red, green, blue, and yellow. The contrasting colors are used to create a dramatic effect. The dresses also have pastel shades like pink, lavender, and mint. The colors reflect the lively and carefree spirit of the 1920s.

• Embellishments

  Beads, sequins, and fringe are common embellishments in a flapper dress. Beading and sequin work are usually done on the neckline, hemline, and sleeves. They create a shimmering effect when the dress moves. Fringe is another common embellishment that is added to the hemline and sleeves. It moves and sways when the wearer dances, thus adding to the playful and energetic style of the 1920s.

• Necklines and Sleeves

  Flapper dresses mostly have V-necklines or scoop necklines. These necklines are low and expose the collarbone. This adds a touch of sensuality to the dress. The sleeves are short or sleeveless. They expose the arms and enhance the freedom and liberation style of the 1920s. Some dresses have long sleeves but they are sheer. The sheer fabric allows the skin to show through, thus keeping the androgynous look the dress aims for.

• Fringe and Beading

  Fringe and beads are two common elements in flapper dresses. Fringe is usually added to the hemline and sleeves. It sways and moves with its wearer, adding to the playful and energetic style of the 1920s. Beading is another popular embellishment. Beads are hand-sewn onto the dress in intricate patterns. They create a shimmering effect that catches the light and draws attention.

• Hemlines and Lengths

  Flapper dresses are known for their above-the-knee hemlines. This was considered scandalous at the time but it symbolized the new freedom and liberation of women. The short length of the dress made it easy for women to dance and move freely. It also made a bold statement of defiance against traditional Victorian society.

Wearing/Matching suggestions of flapper dresses from the 1920s

The following are some general tips when wearing or matching a flapper dress:

• Wearing the Dress

  Choose the right size of dress for the occasion. Consider the body type and size of the person wearing the dress. It should not be too tight or too loose. It should enhance the curves and make the wearer feel confident. The length should be appropriate for the occasion. It should not be too short or too long. It should be at the knee or a bit higher. The sleeves should be suitable for the weather. They can be short or long, but they should not restrict movement. The neckline should be flattering. It can be V-shaped or round, but it should not expose too much cleavage. The fabric should be of high quality and well-stitched. It should not have loose threads or uneven seams. The color should suit the skin tone and the event. It can be black, white, or any other color that matches the accessories and shoes.

  When wearing a Flapper dress, put on the dress first. Then, add accessories like pearls and a feather headpiece. Put on the shoes next. Choose T-strap or block-heeled shoes. They should be comfortable for dancing. Afterward, add a cloche or a wide-brimmed hat. A cloche hat fits well and suits the dress style. A wide-brimmed hat adds a touch of glamor. Finally, add a small, beaded handbag. It should match the shoes and the overall outfit. This sequence helps in dressing up quickly and efficiently. It ensures that all elements complement each other and create a cohesive look.

• Matching Accessories to a Flapper Dress

  Flapper dresses are trendy in modern parties. Accessorizing them needs a keen eye. Choose pearls for the neck. Long strands complement the dress's vintage style. Add a feathered headpiece for flair. It sits well and draws attention to the hair. Pick T-strap shoes to match. They have straps that cross the toes and add elegance. Block heels offer comfort for dancing. For the head, select a cloche hat. It fits snugly and enhances the flapper look. A wide-brimmed hat offers a different, bold style. Pair the outfit with a beaded handbag. It hangs well and holds essentials. Look for bags with chains that dangle. They add a touch of luxury and blend with the flapper theme.

Q&A

Q1: What characterizes a Flapper dress?

A1: A flapper dress is characterized by its loose, straight, and unfitted shape, which hangs from the shoulders with little definition at the waist. The hemline was revolutionary for its time, typically falling at or just below the knee. Flapper dresses often featured luxurious fabrics like silk and satin and were adorned with beads, sequins, and fringe to catch the light and movement. The drop waist, commonly seen in these dresses, gave the outfit a more relaxed and modern appearance.

Q2: What colors were popular for Flapper dresses?

A2: Flapper dresses came in a wide range of colors, each chosen to evoke certain feelings or fit specific occasions. Black Flapper dresses were particularly popular, symbolizing sophistication and elegance, making them a favorite for evening wear. Red dresses were bold and attention-grabbing, ideal for the confident woman. Pastel colors offered a softer, more delicate look, often associated with daytime events. Metallic shades like gold and silver were favored for their shimmering appeal, perfect for the lively nightlife of the 1920s.

Q3: What accessories did women wear with Flapper dresses?

A3: Accessories played a crucial role in completing the Flapper look. Long strands of pearls or beads were popular, as they could be worn in multiple ways and added a touch of glamour. Headbands adorned with feathers or jewels were iconic, sitting low on the forehead and enhancing the Roaring Twenties vibe. Cloche hats, close-fitting and bell-shaped, were fashionable and practical. Women also carried small, ornate handbags and wore T-strap or Mary Jane shoes, which complemented the style and functionality of their dresses.

Q4: What was the significance of the drop waist in a Flapper dress?

A4: The drop waist was significant as it symbolized the departure from traditional, structured women's clothing. By lowering the waistline, designers created a more relaxed and casual silhouette that mirrored the changing roles and attitudes of women in the 1920s. This design element contributed to the androgynous look of the Flapper, promoting a sense of freedom and modernity that resonated with the era's cultural shifts.