10 Decades have passed since the fabulous roaring 1920's, however the dress code remains as glamorous today as it did 100 years ago. Without doubt the roaring 20's is the most popular dress up theme for any party or event.
Why ‘The Great Gatsby’ theme so popular for parties and events
The driving force behind the roaring 1920’s modern-day popularity is Baz Lurhrmann’s 2013 movie re-make of the 1920’s best-selling novel ‘The Great Gatsby’. Even more granular, the most memorable scenes of this film feature extravagant, grandiose and seriously fun evening parties with guests dressed to impress. In particular, the ladies exude elegance, beauty and empowerment like we have never seen before. Its these scenes alone that have set the tone for the resurgence of the roaring 20s and Great Gatsby themed events.
What is Great Gatsby Dress Code
In short, Great Gatsby Dress code is formal. However, its formal with immense glamour, extreme style and serious levels of sexiness. A perfect reference to the dress code can be seen in this 5-minute you-tube clip.
Before we go any further, we do want to address 1 thing.We strongly recommendavoiding any Great Gatsby clothing that is referred to as a costume. This is for both men and women. Gatsby costumes are cheap and nasty solutions, they are not formal, and they don’t look the part. In most cases they cost the same as an authentic Gatsby dress does or for men, what is already available in your wardrobe. In other words, don’t get caught out wasting money on a product referred to as a costume!
Great Gatsby Dress Code for Men
For men it starts with being well groomed. This includes:
- Being clean shaven
- Hair at medium to short length and styled with a part.
Next, we move on to the outfit. If you refer to the you-tube clip, this does not need to become a complex exercise. The most common Gatsby outfits for men primarily consist of 4 core garments.
- A black suit
- White button up collared shirt
- Black or white bow tie
- Black dress shoes.
In a little more detail, we have created a few popular combinations that really should do the trick:
- Combine with grooming a black suit (pants and jacket) white button up collared shirt, white or black bow tie, black dress shoes and a matching pocket square (aka pocket handkerchief).
- Combine with grooming a black suit (pants and jacket), white button up collared shirt with pleated front, cuff links, black or white vest, black or white bow tie, black dress shoes and a matching pocket square (aka pocket handkerchief).
- Combine with grooming a darker style jacket (possible pin stripes or gold buttons), cream colored pants, white or light-colored button up collared shirt, bow tie, dress shoes, boater hat and a matching pocket square (aka pocket handkerchief).
Fortunately, most men would already have some of these garments in their wardrobe. If they do not, they could try their local suit hire shop, their local shopping mall where nearly all these items would be available or see if their friends have any of the garments.
In summary, the best Great Gatsby outfits for men should consist of being well groomed, dressed in a nice suit and accessorized with items like bow ties, pocket squares and boater hats.
Now that we have address what they men should wear, lets move onto the ladies!
Great Gatsby Dress Code for Women
The Gatsby Dress, which is also referred to as a Flapper Dress, is your first stop when piecing together an outfit for your Great Gatsby party. Fortunately thanks to the world wide web there is enough information and retailers online to source a quality Gatsby dress.
Here are a handful of questions and answers (from the experts) that are worth giving consideration whilst planning your outfit.
Q. What colors are Gatsby Dresses available in?
A. Gatsby Dresses are made in most colours including black, red, blue, white, silver, green and gold. The most popular colours are black and red (more specific maroon or a darker red). We also feel these 2 colours have a broader range of accessories that compliment the dresses. For example, headbands and long black gloves. The other colour we highly recommend is Green. Green Gatsby dresses are limited in design however they exude an energy full of glamour and elegance. Which is exactly what this theme is all about.
Q. What Length are Gatsby Dresses available in?
A. Gatsby Dresses are made predominately in 3 lengths. Short, knee length and floor length. The most popular length is knee length. The knee length dresses provide comfort whilst maintaining their elegance. The hem of these dresses sits above the knee however when factoring fringes that run around the hem, they become knee length. We find the shorter Gatsby dresses are perfect for those in performing arts and the floor length perfect for the more formal occasions like proms, weddings, gala balls etc.
Q. What are the most popular Styles of Gatsby Dresses?
A. There are a handful of different styles however for the purpose of this article we will focus on the 2 most popular which are referred to as vintage and fringe style dresses.
- Vintage Flapper Dresses - feature stunning art deco patterns of hand beaded and sequin detail. They are extremely glamorous whilst exuding an energy of female empowerment. This style is the most popular. When referring to the film it’s this style of dress that is worn by most female guests at Jay Gatsby’s parties.
- Fringe Flapper Dresses - generally feature tiers of fringes that run around the entire dress from neckline to hem. Some of these dresses also feature under lying patterns of delicate sequins that really give the dress some shimmy…especially on the dance floor! When referring to the film, think of Gilda Gray making her entrance on the party dance floor in her silver fringe flapper dress.
What sizes are Gatsby Dresses available in?
A. The short answer is they are available in most sizes from XS through to 5XL. It is important to note that one must refer to a retailer’s size charts (more so when buying online). Take the time to apply your measurements to the size charts as all dresses have different cuts. You may find that a medium in one style fit you, however in another style you may need the large. This is even more important once you start getting into the Plus Size Gatsby Dresses (2XL and above). Your homework becomes even paramount. Shop around, ensure to refer to measurements noted in size charts and if in doubt contact the retailer for some advice.
Q. What Gatsby Accessories do I need?
A. Once you have decided upon your dress, the next stop is to accessorise yourself. This should not be over complicated or made to be an unnecessary expense. The reason being is with most Gatsby dresses there is generally a lot going on and by accessorising we want to make sure we compliment the dress rather than take away from it. With this is mind we almost always recommend wearing a flapper headband, some jewellery, and possibly long gloves.
- Flapper Headband – depending on your style of dress you could opt for a simple headband that consists of sequin style band, attached motif and feather. One of the most popular styles is a jewellery style flapper headband with rhinestones and faux ivory pearls.
- Jewellery – Think gems and pearls! As mentioned above, with most Gatsby style dresses there is a lot going on. We really do not want to take away from the dress, so our advice is to keep it simple and try and use what is already in your jewellery box. With earrings our recommendation would be drop style earrings featuring faux gems or pearls. Necklaces in most cases are not required. Reason being is most Gatsby style dresses these days either have a high neck or v neck cut with beads and sequins running all the way through the neckline. If on the other hand your dress is a fringe style dress with a plainer pattern, then a faux pearl necklace (strands of beads or lariat) would complement the outfit. Bracelets, in our opinion they are not required, and rings think anything featuring gems, pearls and the odd diamond.
- Gloves – there really are only 2 options here. Long black gloves or long white gloves. Black will compliment nearly all coloured dresses (the exception being white) and white gloves will compliment white dresses. If the style of dress you have chosen has sleeves (short or long), gloves are not required.
We also give a notable mention to other Great Gatsby accessories like shawls, feather boas, cigarette holders and pearl necklaces. Whilst these are somewhat popular, they are not entirely necessary and in most cases their practicality is void. In some cases, can be a detriment to an outfit.
Q. How much should I budget for a Great Gatsby outfit?
A .For a glamorous and authentic Gatsby outfit combining what you already have in your jewellery box we estimate that an outfit should cost anywhere from $60 to $140 AUD. Or $40 to $90 USD, 30 to 75 GBP, 35 to 80 EURO and $65 to $145 NZD.
If we reference www.flapperboutique.com, on average a typical outfit that consists of a vintage flapper dress, headband and long gloves will cost around $100 AUD. Or $65 USD, 52 GBP, 60 EURO and $105 NZD.
Shipping for Australian customers is free over $50, for customers in the US, UK and Europe around $10 AUD and for customers in NZ around $5 AUD
In summary, this theme is all about fun and having a really good time. If you are lucky enough to get invited to a Great Gatsby theme party, then one should embrace it. Make sure you piece a glamorous outfit together and get excited. You just never know who you will meet at one of Jay Gatsby’s parties!
FAQs
In keeping with the theme of the Roaring Twenties, all Great Gatsby Party guests are required to follow the evening's dress code. Men are invited to come in black tie, while women are requested to arrive in flapper fashion.
How do the guests dress at Gatsby's party? ›
Gatsby's parties were formal affairs with the guests clad in evening wear, elaborately bedecked in sequins, feathers, jewels, and other decorative accoutrements.
What is the Great Gatsby clothing style? ›
The go-to dress style of the 1920s is the 'Flapper. ' Originally an insult, 'flapper' became a badge of honour for young girls who just wanted to have fun. The Flapper dress is short and loose, short-sleeved or sleeveless, and never much longer than knee length – which was super short in those days.
What colors for a Gatsby themed party? ›
The most popular colour scheme for 1920s-inspired parties is black, gold, and white. You can bring in these colours by including balloons in your decor.
What colors are Great Gatsby parties? ›
For your Great Gatsby party decorations, you can't go wrong with a black and gold color scheme and glitzy elements. That said, rich jewel tones, modern contours, and materials like leather and feathers are all at home with the decade's aesthetic.
What did Ladies Wear in the 1920s? ›
Day dresses for going out would include richer fabrics such as silk, satin, chiffon, or organdy. Women used to wear lace-up boots all the time, but in the 1920s, a more casual shoe style emerged with the Oxford. Strappy heels were worn with evening attire. Lace-up Oxfords were practical and sturdy with a low heel.
What makes a Great Gatsby party? ›
What is a Great Gatsby party? Great Gatsby-themed parties bring glamour to the forefront of your celebration with Art Deco designs and golden décor elements. Expect live jazz ensembles, flapper performers, and sparkling Champagne towers.
What does Gatsby party theme mean? ›
It's a theme that is focused on dancing and revels in luxuriousness – so it's a great way to reward guests and to give them space to let loose. If you are looking for an event that will play well on social media and gives guests permission to dress up, then a Great Gatsby theme is a good choice.
Can I wear pants to a Great Gatsby party? ›
Avoid anything too modern or flashy. The goal is to look like you stepped out of the 1920s, so avoid anything that doesn't fit that style. Avoid jeans, t-shirts, and other casual clothing! This is a formal event, so dress accordingly.
What do I wear to a 1920s party? ›
1920s Attire Female
Ladies: get a flapper dress, lots of long necklaces, long gloves, wear 1920s style high heels, and get a headpiece. Simply making a headpiece with a black headband and a large, plume-y feather in it could work. The look is never complete without red lipstick and your hair tucked into a mock bob.
Gatsby's party is almost unbelievably luxurious: guests marvel over his Rolls-Royce, his swimming pool, his beach, crates of fresh oranges and lemons, buffet tents in the gardens overflowing with a feast, and a live orchestra playing under the stars.
What did Daisy wear in Gatsby party? ›
First was the outfit Daisy wears to meet Gatsby, a lavender lace dress, hat and gloves.
What color is dominant in Great Gatsby? ›
In The Great Gatsby, the color green is used to symbolize desire, jealousy, and money. Green is arguably the most prominent color used as a symbol in The Great Gatsby.
What is Gatsby's favorite color? ›
In The Great Gatsby, green is predominantly associated with Gatsby's character as it is mainly used to emphasize his desire and his unfulfilled wish to win his love Daisy back. As he has already achieved everything in life concerning material success, wealth and power, Gatsby's only aim left is to reach Daisy's heart.
What is an example of color in The Great Gatsby? ›
The major colors in The Great Gatsby include green, white, red, yellow, blue and grey. Green is closely associated with the green light at the end of Daisy's dock. It symbolizes Gatsby's deep love to Daisy and his American Dream.
What 2 colors is Gatsby wearing that accentuate his wealth? ›
Gatsby uses silver and gold in order to emphasize his status and add gloss to his image and appearance.
What is the color code for Gatsby? ›
The hexadecimal color code #d4a45d is a shade of brown. In the RGB color model #d4a45d is comprised of 83.14% red, 64.31% green and 36.47% blue.
What do 1920s dresses look like? ›
Also known as the flapper, the look typified 1920s dress with a dropped waist and creeping hemlines that could be created in economical fabrics. Coco Chanel helped popularize this style (Fig. 1) and was a prominent designer during the period.
What was the most popular dress in the 1920s? ›
Of the many fashion trends that came out of the 1920s, it is the flapper dress that continues to reign supreme. The style, named after the women who wore it, is characterized by a straight and loose silhouette with a drop waist that falls right below the knee.
What was the most popular hairstyle in the 1920s? ›
The bob of choice for much of the 1920s was the “shingle”—a bob that covered the ears, but was cut shorter in a v-shape at the nape of the neck. Screen actress Louise Brooks popularized the shingle, and women flocked to their local barber shop to obtain the look.
Gatsby's parties are attended almost exclusively by the “new rich.” These attendees recently came into their money and are eager to flaunt their newfound wealth and live life to the fullest. They have finally “made it” in the world and are eager, even overeager, to make the most of it.
What time period is The Great Gatsby set in? ›
Set in 1922, four years after the end of the Great War, as it was then known, Fitzgerald's novel reflects the ways in which that conflict had transformed American society. The war left Europe devastated and marked the emergence of the United States as the preeminent power in the world.
How do people behave at the party The Great Gatsby? ›
There is lots of laughter, music and dancing and it can be kind of overwhelming at times. He tells us that the people act crazy as at an amusem*nt park and later in the chapter, when Nick is recalling his experience, he tells us that most of the guests don't even know Gatsby!
What are 4 themes in The Great Gatsby? ›
In The Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald offers up commentary on a variety of themes -- justice, power, greed, betrayal, the American dream, and so on. Of all the themes, perhaps none is more well developed than that of social stratification.
What is the most common theme in The Great Gatsby? ›
The theme of The Great Gatsby is that past cannot be repeated and everybody has to move forward in life. The author of the book F. Scott Fitzgerald was a popular writer in the 1920s and by using plot, style, figurative language, character, and setting he is able to develop the theme.
What does the color white symbolize in The Great Gatsby? ›
White represents the immaculate and pure beauty. It symbolizes nobleness and purity. It is Daisy's color in the novel. She wears white dress when she meets Gatsby for the first time as well as when Nick visits her in the East Egg.
What should a woman wear to a 1920s party? ›
The typical flapper look comprises of drop-waisted, fringed or heavily beaded co*cktail dresses, Mary Jane heels (perfect for dancing!), accessorised with a long cigarette holder and a feather boa.
How to dress like a 1920s woman? ›
Fringe, beads and dangly details. The most iconic style accent of the 1920s is a love of texture and movement in dresses, tops, and skirts. The iconic “flapper dress” is usually fringe, designed to move along with the dancer on the dance floor. Beads and other sewn on items - such as rhinestones - were also used.
What dress colors were popular in the 1920s? ›
What Colors were Popular in the 1920s? In women's dress in the 1920s, light pinks, pale golds, buttery yellows, off-whites, greens, blues, and other light-colored chiffon silks and rayon were quite popular.
What are 4 words to describe Gatsby's parties? ›
He describes the atmosphere of Gatsby's parties as elegant, extravagant, wild, and opulent.
The guests who arrive at the party seek attention, social status, and gossip there. On the contrary, Gatsby observes the event from afar and abstains from drinking. He is not asocial since his conversation skills amaze Nick when they meet for the first time. But, Gatsby does not like the company of many people.
What does alcohol symbolize in The Great Gatsby? ›
Alcohol serves as a device to push the characters towards honesty. During Gatsby's parties, he supplies drinks free of charge and in large masses.
What colors represent Daisy in The Great Gatsby? ›
Daisy's color is white, she wears white dresses and recalls her “white girlhood” (chapter 1), and this use of color helps her to characterize her as the unattainable “enchanted princess” who becomes incarnate as Gatsby's dream.
How does Nick dress in The Great Gatsby? ›
While he does wear a cool polo outfit when we first see him, he is only seen in a suit for the rest of the film. While Nick tends to wear sportssuits and odd waistcoats, Tom tends to wear DB suits unbuttoned.
Why did Gatsby sleep with Daisy? ›
Gatsby reveals details of his and Daisy's long ago courtship. He was enthralled by her wealth, her big house, and the idea of men loving her. To be with Daisy, he pretended to be of the same social standing as her. One night, they slept together, and he felt like they were married.
What was the dress code for a 1920s party? ›
In the summer, white or ivory suits were common, as well as white trousers and a navy blue blazer. Complete the look with a two-tone art deco oxford shoe, suspenders, and a snazzy striped or polka dot bowtie. And, don't forget the must-have 1920s men's accessory: a hat.
What happens at a Great Gatsby party? ›
Gatsby's party is almost unbelievably luxurious: guests marvel over his Rolls-Royce, his swimming pool, his beach, crates of fresh oranges and lemons, buffet tents in the gardens overflowing with a feast, and a live orchestra playing under the stars.
What kind of women's attire became popular in the 1920s? ›
Flapper fashions included short hair under cloche hats, lingerie over corsets and loose dresses with hemlines that rose from the ankles in 1920, knee length or higher by the mid-1920s and back down to below the knee by 1930.
What would a Great Gatsby party look like? ›
What is a Great Gatsby party? Great Gatsby-themed parties bring glamour to the forefront of your celebration with Art Deco designs and golden décor elements. Expect live jazz ensembles, flapper performers, and sparkling Champagne towers.
What do guests at Gatsby's parties normally do? ›
The guests at Gatsby's parties don't seem to acknowledge or care about Gatsby, they only accept his hospitality because he throws great parties.
The three main themes are the American dream, wealth, and love/relationships.
