How To Make A Flapper Outfit

The jazz age. Carefree extravagance. A generation shedding old norms and embracing liberation. When you think of the Roaring Twenties, the image of a flapper, with her fringed dress, bobbed hair, and strings of pearls, likely comes to mind. The flapper was a symbol of this revolutionary era, and her style remains iconic.

Want to channel your inner Daisy Buchanan or party like it's 1925? Creating your own flapper outfit is easier than you might think. Whether you're aiming for historical accuracy or a modern interpretation, understanding the key elements of flapper fashion allows you to craft a stunning and authentic look. This guide will walk you through every detail, from the dress and accessories to the hair and makeup, ensuring you're ready to Charleston the night away.

Diving into the World of Flapper Fashion

Flapper fashion wasn't just about clothing; it was a statement. The 1920s represented a significant shift in women's roles and attitudes. After the hardships of World War I, there was a collective desire for freedom, fun, and rebellion against Victorian-era constraints. The flapper embodied this spirit.

The clothing of the era reflected this newfound liberation. Corsets were loosened or discarded altogether, hemlines rose above the knee (scandalous at the time!), and dresses became looser and less structured, allowing for greater freedom of movement. Fabrics like silk, rayon, and velvet were popular, often adorned with beads, sequins, and fringe. This wasn't just about looking good; it was about feeling unburdened and ready to embrace life.

A Comprehensive Look at Flapper Style

To truly capture the essence of a flapper outfit, let's delve into the specifics of each element:

The Dress: The Heart of the Flapper Look

The dress is arguably the most important part of a flapper outfit. Here's a breakdown of the key characteristics:

• Silhouette: The quintessential flapper dress features a loose, straight, and often shapeless silhouette. This "tubular" or "chemise" shape contrasts sharply with the figure-hugging styles of previous eras. The emphasis was on minimizing the waist, rather than accentuating it. Dropped waistlines, where the waist seam sits lower on the hips, are also a hallmark of the style.
• Length: Hemlines in the 1920s gradually rose from mid-calf to just below the knee. While some daring flappers pushed the boundaries even further, a knee-length dress is a safe bet for achieving an authentic look.
• Embellishments: This is where you can really get creative. Beads, sequins, and fringe were used liberally to add movement and sparkle to flapper dresses. Geometric patterns, inspired by Art Deco designs, were also popular. Consider adding beaded panels, fringed layers, or sequined accents to your dress.
• Fabrics: Lightweight and flowing fabrics were essential for creating the desired movement. Silk, rayon, and velvet were common choices. These fabrics draped beautifully and allowed for ease of dancing. For a more budget-friendly option, consider using crepe or chiffon.
• Color: While black is often associated with flapper style, the 1920s saw a wide range of colors. Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red were popular, as were pastel shades like blush pink, lavender, and mint green. Metallic colors like gold and silver were also frequently used, especially for evening wear.

Accessories: Completing the Ensemble

Accessories are crucial for pulling together a complete flapper look. They add personality and polish to your outfit:

• Headwear: Headbands were an iconic flapper accessory. These were often adorned with feathers, beads, sequins, or jewels. Cloche hats, which fit snugly over the head and often featured asymmetrical brims, were another popular choice. Consider a headband with a large feather or a cloche hat in a complementary color to your dress.
• Jewelry: Long strands of pearls were practically synonymous with flapper style. These were often worn draped loosely around the neck, sometimes layered for a more dramatic effect. Art Deco-inspired jewelry, featuring geometric shapes and bold designs, was also popular. Look for necklaces, bracelets, and earrings with geometric patterns, made from materials like Bakelite, glass beads, and marcasite.
• Shoes: T-strap shoes or Mary Janes with a low heel were the go-to footwear for flappers. These shoes were comfortable for dancing and added a touch of elegance to the outfit. Look for shoes in metallic colors like gold or silver, or in classic colors like black or nude.
• Hosiery: Stockings were an essential part of a flapper outfit. Silk or rayon stockings in neutral colors like beige or nude were typically worn. Seamed stockings, with a dark line running down the back, were particularly fashionable.
• Gloves: Long gloves, reaching to the elbow or beyond, were often worn with evening dresses. These added a touch of sophistication and glamour to the outfit. Look for gloves in silk or satin, in colors that complement your dress.
• Handbags: Small, beaded handbags or clutches were the perfect accessory for carrying essentials. These were often adorned with intricate beadwork or embroidery. Look for a handbag that matches the color and style of your dress.

Hair and Makeup: The Finishing Touches

No flapper outfit is complete without the right hair and makeup:

• Hairstyle: The iconic flapper hairstyle was the bob. This short, chin-length haircut was a radical departure from the long, flowing hair of previous eras. If you don't want to chop off your hair, you can create a faux bob by pinning your hair up in the back to create the illusion of shorter hair. Finger waves, created using a special technique of molding the hair into waves, were also a popular hairstyle.
• Makeup: Flapper makeup was bold and dramatic. The focus was on creating a sultry and mysterious look. Dark, smoky eyes were achieved with kohl eyeliner and dark eyeshadows. Mascara was used to create long, thick lashes. Rouge was applied to the cheeks in a circular motion to create a rosy glow. Lipstick was typically a deep red or plum color, applied to create a defined cupid's bow shape.

Trends and Latest Developments in Flapper Fashion

While the core elements of flapper fashion remain timeless, there are ways to incorporate modern trends and interpretations into your outfit.

• Modern Fabrics: While silk and rayon were popular in the 1920s, modern fabrics like stretch velvet, sequined mesh, and beaded lace can offer greater comfort and durability.
• Updated Silhouettes: While the classic flapper dress is loose and shapeless, you can experiment with slightly more fitted silhouettes that still capture the essence of the era. A-line dresses with dropped waists can be a flattering and comfortable option.
• Contemporary Accessories: Incorporate modern accessories with a vintage twist. A chunky Art Deco-inspired necklace or a pair of strappy heels can add a contemporary touch to your flapper outfit.
• Sustainable Options: Consider using vintage or repurposed materials to create your flapper outfit. This is a sustainable and eco-friendly way to embrace the fashion of the 1920s.
• Inclusivity and Representation: Modern interpretations of flapper fashion are becoming more inclusive and representative of diverse body types and identities. Focus on finding a style that makes you feel confident and comfortable, regardless of your size, shape, or background.

Tips and Expert Advice for Creating Your Flapper Outfit

Here are some practical tips and expert advice to help you create a stunning flapper outfit:

1. Do Your Research: Before you start, take some time to research flapper fashion and gather inspiration. Look at photos from the 1920s, watch movies set in the era, and read articles about flapper style. This will help you develop a clear understanding of the key elements and variations of the look.
2. Start with the Dress: The dress is the foundation of your flapper outfit, so start there. Consider the silhouette, length, embellishments, fabric, and color. Decide whether you want to purchase a ready-made dress or create your own.
3. Focus on the Details: The details are what will set your flapper outfit apart. Pay attention to the accessories, hair, and makeup. Choose pieces that complement your dress and enhance the overall look.
4. Consider Your Body Type: While the classic flapper dress is loose and shapeless, you can choose styles that flatter your body type. If you have a curvy figure, consider a dress with a slightly more defined waist. If you're petite, choose a dress with a shorter hemline to elongate your legs.
5. Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: Flapper fashion was all about breaking the rules and expressing individuality. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles, colors, and accessories. Find what works best for you and create a look that makes you feel confident and fabulous.
6. DIY Options: Creating your own flapper dress can be a fun and rewarding project. Look for vintage patterns or tutorials online. You can also embellish a plain dress with beads, sequins, and fringe to create a custom look.
7. Thrifting and Vintage Shopping: Thrifting and vintage shopping are great ways to find authentic flapper-era pieces or vintage-inspired items. Look for dresses, accessories, and jewelry that capture the spirit of the 1920s.
8. Accessorize Wisely: Accessories can make or break a flapper outfit. Choose accessories that complement your dress and enhance the overall look. Don't overdo it – a few well-chosen accessories can be more effective than a lot of clutter.
9. Comfort is Key: While style is important, comfort is also essential. Choose a dress and shoes that you can comfortably wear for an extended period of time, especially if you plan on dancing.
10. Practice Your Charleston: No flapper outfit is complete without the Charleston. Take some time to learn the basic steps of this iconic dance. You'll be ready to Charleston the night away!

FAQ About Creating a Flapper Outfit

• Q: What is the most important element of a flapper outfit?

  • A: The dress is arguably the most important element, as it sets the tone for the entire look. Focus on the silhouette, length, embellishments, fabric, and color.

• Q: Where can I find flapper-style dresses?

  • A: You can find flapper-style dresses at vintage stores, costume shops, online retailers, and even some department stores. You can also consider making your own dress using vintage patterns or tutorials.

• Q: What kind of shoes should I wear with a flapper outfit?

  • A: T-strap shoes or Mary Janes with a low heel are the most authentic choices. Look for shoes in metallic colors like gold or silver, or in classic colors like black or nude.

• Q: How do I create a flapper hairstyle if I don't want to cut my hair?

  • A: You can create a faux bob by pinning your hair up in the back to create the illusion of shorter hair. You can also use hair accessories like headbands or clips to style your hair in a 1920s-inspired way.

• Q: What kind of makeup should I wear with a flapper outfit?

  • A: Flapper makeup is bold and dramatic. Focus on creating dark, smoky eyes with kohl eyeliner and dark eyeshadows. Apply rouge to the cheeks in a circular motion and use a deep red or plum lipstick to create a defined cupid's bow shape.

• Q: Can I wear a flapper outfit to a modern event?

  • A: Absolutely! Flapper fashion is timeless and can be adapted for modern events. Just be mindful of the context and choose a style that is appropriate for the occasion.

• Q: How can I make my flapper outfit more sustainable?

  • A: Consider using vintage or repurposed materials to create your flapper outfit. You can also shop at thrift stores or consignment shops to find vintage-inspired items.

• Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when creating a flapper outfit?

  • A: Avoid wearing overly modern accessories or hairstyles. Also, be careful not to overdo the embellishments – sometimes less is more.

Conclusion

Creating a flapper outfit is a fun and creative way to step back in time and embrace the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. By understanding the key elements of flapper fashion – the dress, accessories, hair, and makeup – you can craft a stunning and authentic look that will turn heads at any event. Remember to do your research, focus on the details, and don't be afraid to experiment with different styles. So, put on your dancing shoes, practice your Charleston, and get ready to party like it's 1925!

Ready to create your own flapper masterpiece? Share your outfit ideas in the comments below! We'd love to see your creations and hear your tips for achieving the perfect flapper look. Don't forget to share this article with your friends who are also interested in flapper fashion!