The 1920s weren’t just another decade—they were a full-blown fashion revolution. The era was full of bold styles, jazzy nightlife and youthful spirit. Hence the term “Roaring Twenties”. It also changed how Americans dressed after that. So what did people wear in the 1920s? Let’s dive into the memorable looks that defined a memorable decade.
Flapper Flair: A Bold Style Revolution for Women
Say goodbye to corsets and hello to freedom! Modern fashion was at the heart of the 1920s. Women wore shorter hemlines, loose-fitting clothes and short hair. It was a strong rejection of the restrictions of the past!
Dresses were often sleeveless, low-waisted, and adorned with fringe, beads, or sequins.
Our goal? To dance freely and turn heads while doing it.
👗Example: Remember 1920s movie icon Clara Bow? She was known for her flowing dresses adorned with beading and short, tousled hair.
Tip: Want to recreate this look today? Start with a simple low-waisted dress and T-strap heels.
Well-Dressed Men: A Stylish Shift in Men’s Fashion
Men’s style in the 1920s shifted from stiff to sharp. The classic three-piece suit got a stylish twist.
They wore wide-legged pants, fitted vests, and pinstriped jackets.
Accessories like pocket watches, two-tone shoes and tweed hats were all the rage.
📊Did you know that sales of men’s suits doubled in the United States between 1921 and 1929? This was because middle-class men started embracing fashion trends.
FAQ: Were tuxedos popular in the 1920s?
- Yes! Especially for evening events. Black tuxedos with satin lapels and bow ties were the must-have dress code for high society.
From Jazz Clubs to Streetwear: Everyday Style in the 1920s
Fashion wasn’t just for parties—daywear had its own appeal.
For casual outings, women often wore knitted sweaters, pleated skirts and clock hats.
Men might wear knickerbockers (knee-length pants), newsboy hats and cardigans.
Tip: Want to create a subtle 1920s vibe today? Try incorporating vintage accessories like suspenders or bell-bottom hats into modern outfits.
Glitz and Glam: The Rise of Accessories and Luxury
No 1920s outfit was complete without sparkle.
Women loved long pearl necklaces, feathered hair bands and jeweled handbags.
Men gravitated towards cufflinks, walking sticks and two-tone oxfords.
💎 Example: Jewelry sales in the United States surged in the 1920s. This thanks to the influence of Hollywood and the emergence of new department stores.
FAQ: Were luxury brands a big deal in the 1920s?
- Absolutely. Brands like Chanel began to make waves during this time, redefining feminine elegance.
The 1920s was a golden age of bold expression and boundary breaking. From Halloween costumes to runway shows, its influence still shines through. Today’s designers often draw on a frivolous aesthetic or Art Deco glamor. Impressed by the flavor of the era? Love that vintage feel? Bring it back with a cloche hat or a fringed dress.