The theme for this year’s annual Snow Spree event is “The Great Catsby,” a fun and festive family-friendly mash-up celebrating the 100-year anniversary of the great American novel… and cats! You can find more details about the event here. Dressing up is encouraged. Get into the meow mood with some cat-themed manga, picture books, and novels for middle and high schoolers. And if you’re feeling extra dapper, read on to learn more about 1920’s fashion.
Although clothing may seem minor to some, the articles we wear on our bodies can be used as a means of expression. During the 1920’s, clothing was more expressive and freeing than ever before.
After the end of the first World War and the passing of the 19th Amendment, a newfound freedom was bestowed upon American women. Many felt like they wanted to shed the old ways of dressing along with the old ideals. Corsets, long dresses buttoned from the neck to the ankles and lace up boots were thought to be out of style by younger women of the decade. Instead, loose fitting boxy silhouettes were the rage, necklines dropped to the shoulder, hems came to the calf, and slip-on heels were donned. Many dresses featured heavy beading and intricate stitching, adding to the “boldness” of the era. Instead of long hair worn pinned up, hair was chopped to the chin or shorter. Women who followed the new fashion trends were called “Flappers”.
Men’s fashion changed as well, but it was more subtle. Instead of a whole new silhouette, patterns on clothing were bolder, and formalities were dropped. Pinstripes, bold colors (purples, yellows, blues, and greens), and three-piece suits were in style. Men wore spats on their shoes and felt fedoras on their heads.
Jewelry became louder and bolder than before, with many pieces embodying the Art Deco style. Geometric lines, delicate filigrees, and colored stones became more popular than ever. For the first time, costume jewelry was fashionable with designers like Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli producing decadent pieces. 1920’s costume jewelry was comprised of cut-glass stones, plastic beads, rhinestones, enamel, sterling silver and rhodium plating.
Cosmetics also became popularized, and mass produced during the 1920’s. Beauty counters at stores like Marshall and Fields (now Macy’s) were busier with women purchasing rouge, eyeliners, lipsticks, and eyeshadows in various bright colors. Perfumes were also mass produced at this point with Chanel’s No. 5 being the highest selling. Men’s aftershaves were also readily available, with scents like lavender and sandalwood.
Even though the 1920’s era was only ten short years, the impact on American fashion was far greater with a freeing style for all.
For further detailed information, check out these resources: Vintage Fashion | Canton Public Library | BiblioCommons, The Vintage Fashion Illustration Manual | Canton Public Library | BiblioCommons, Chanel | Canton Public Library | BiblioCommons, Illustrated Guide to Jewelry Appraising | Canton Public Library | BiblioCommons
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