flapper fashion

I’ve been known to be a little obsessed with flapper dresses. I have a couple in fact, I just adore 1920s fashion. I love Louise Brooks. I had a Brooks-esque bob for a while there. And though the more conservative members of 1920s society probably used the terms ‘flapper’ and ’slapper’ interchangeably, I love the rebellious non-conformity of the women that bore this label:

“In the 1920s, the word “flapper” described a young woman who rebelled against convention. Like jazz music, the gangster, and the speakeasy, the rebellious and fun-loving flapper was a product of 1920s urban America. Most American women were not flappers, but the flapper’s shocking behavior set a tone that helped many women explore Jazz Age freedoms without fear.” ~ Chicago Historical Society” [taken from here]

Perhaps not the virtuous qualities of the traditional bride but oh, who cares. I’m no traditional bride. AA and I have been together for almost 7 years, living together for almost 5, I bought the house we now live in with a housemate. I don’t think us getting married is making an ‘honest woman’ out of me – it’s such a ridiculous notion and frankly a little insulting. To me our wedding is about stating our commitment to each other in front of our dearest friends and family, and asking them to witness our commitment and to love and support us and our relationship.

That said, I still want a gorgeous dress… or two. I don’t want to buy a newly designed one. I have been torn between making my own or finding a vintage one. Unfortunately women of the past had the TEENIEST waists and I would never be able to fit into some of the exquisite vintage designs I have found online. But we came across a 1920s dress in a vintage store a fortnight ago and I have been considering it ever since. I had been thinking about making my own 1950s inspired wedding dress but 1920s is just so me. So I am thinking of having the best of both world’s with a good ole’ costume change between reception and ceremony. And what could be more comfortable to wear at the reception than a flapper dress? Afterall I plan to be doing PLENTY of socialising with our guests at the reception and dance all night long. Just what these dresses were designed for!

My 1920s dress needs some alterations so no photos just yet. It looks a bit like this:

But with this fabric:

And it has a tassle on the tail:

But I will share the inspiration (please click on images to link to original sources):