Fancy a night of hedonism, delicious cocktails, live jazz and gambling tables? A roaring 1920s style party is the theme for you.
One of the best things about a 1920s style event is the dressing up, so it’s no wonder that the Great Gatsby with it’s jazz age decadence is such a popular theme at events and especially at Christmas time. So if you’re planning a vintage style party, shake out your tassels and get inspired by the glamorous pleasure seekers of the 1920’s and transform yourself into the perfect Gangster or Flapper.
For the gals
The typical flapper look comprises of drop-waisted, fringed or heavily beaded cocktail dresses, Mary Jane heels (perfect for dancing!), accessorised with a long cigarette holder and a feather boa. It’s pretty easy to find the look at costume shops but it’s also worth browsing vintage shops for something more special. One of our favourite places to shop for the vintage look is Blackout in Covent Garden which has two floors of clothing and accessories to choose from.
Flapper make-up is distinctive with a strong look comprising bold red lips, dramatic eyeliner and beauty spots galore. There are YouTube video’s galore available online full of hints and tips; we love Lisa Eldridge who is Lancôme’s creative Director and having worked with her recently at Kent House Knightsbridge we can confirm that her tutorials are really easy-to follow.
Flappers changed women’s hairstyle forever, cutting their hair short into “bobs” but if this feels too dramatic for you then the finger wave was also hugely popular and perfect for longer hair. Try a visit to The Painted Lady or if there’s a few of you why not start the party early and ask a mobile stylist such as Kittys Vintage to come to you to create a beauty parlour pop up. Alternatively, a feathered headband or cloche style hat will capture the look perfectly instead.
Don’t want to go the whole hog? It’s easy to encapsulate the era with just a few choice pieces. It’s very easy to add a 1920s vibe with some gorgeous jewellery. There are some really beautiful costume pieces around. Look out for sparkly diamante jewellery or a long rope of pearls.
For the guys
As ever the men seem to get it easier, though you certainly can’t put on any old rags! The first key look is ‘rich playboy’ (think Leo Di Caprio in The Great Gatsby) wearing cream suits and silk ties with cuffs and hair swept over with a far parting. Perfect for cocktails at the salon. You need to ooze opulence. At a Speakeasy party things however would be a bit edgier. Often used as offices by gangsters the style was flashy; pin-striped suits with fedora hats, black or white ties on a black shirt and spats (white canvas or vinyl shoe covers) are the name of the game.
We hope we’ve inspired you to get in the 1920s mood. Of course a party is really a good excuse to dress up and at our venue Kent House Knightsbridge we’ve held many 1920s inspired events. Here you can dress up as much as you like, whether you want to embrace the whole 1920s styling or simply slip on your most stylish party clothes, you’re sure to shine at our elegant venue.
At Evolve we regularly share news about latest venues, styles and events on our blog and social media. You can visit our blog here and follow us at @evolveevents.
To get more ideas or help on styling your event talk to the team on 020 7610 2808 or email info@evolve-events.com
Kent House Knightsbridge is a private townhouse with a royal history and is located in the heart of prestigious Knightsbridge and it has become firmly established as one of the best party venues in London. If you’d like to know more about it or would like our help finding another perfect venue for your event just get in touch with the team.