Style Farm: So You Want To Be : a Flapper

1920's film star - Louise Brooks

On the great fashion merry-go-round, I am always pleased when we pause in a period that speaks as much about strong women as strong fashion.

In a time when young men and women were influenced by an 'eat, drink and be merry for tomorrow we die' spirit, the 1920's saw the birth of courageous women who drank, drove, smoked, voted, cut their hair, wore make-up and partied, partied, partied.

We look back lovingly at the fabulous flappers like they were the height of elegance and sophistication, however I'm sure there were a whole generation of parents and older folk tut-tutting and shaking their heads in disgust at the disrespectful and irresponsible youth. Those crazy kids!

The 1920's influence can already be seen on the runways and with the much anticipated film 'The Great Gatsby' due for release later this year, I'm sure we will see more flapper style coming to the fore.

If you'd like to dress like a Flapper, you don't have to mimic the clothing exactly, simply subtly reference the style with patterns, embellishments or silhouettes. Popular fabrications of the time include velvet, chiffon, beading and silk. Here are some 20's inspired pieces available right now.

For a FABULOUS look back in time, click here to see some remarkable original garments and accessories.

Flapper style wasn't all about drop waist dresses and doing the Charleston, it was about attitude and confidence. An emergence of a generation who were taking control of their lives and creating their own path. (Just like the youth of every generation should).

This is my Grandmother (Marj) in her flapper costume. She was always dressing up for something. She did like a party. Marj hit adulthood right in the midst of the roaring 20's, and I have some amazing photos of her in her in her fabulous gowns, deco jewellery and trademark short bob haircut. I've put them somewhere for safekeeping. So safe I've forgotten where they are, otherwise I would have loved to share her pictures with you. I bet she was amazing in her 20's during the 1920's. I know she liked to party. Pity I was too young when she died to ask any of the important questions! Fashion questions!

I loved this flapper costume. I was so excited when it made its way to our dress up box. Whenever I wore it, I'd dance madly to make the fringe swing to and fro. I think it started my love affair with fringe. Or should I say obsession with fringe.

I want to live in a big house with walls made from fringe. Of course you could never open the windows for fear of tangles. Sigh. So instead I simply use fringe wherever possible in photo shoots and lovingly run my hands through it at the fabric store. I've promised myself that one day I will make a fully fringed evening gown. One day.

Want yourself some original Flapper outfits? Try your local vintage store, eBay or Etsy.