The fashion trends of the 1920s were groundbreaking and revolutionary, reflecting the cultural and social shifts of the time. The ’20s saw a departure from the restrictive and heavily corseted styles of the previous Victorian era, with a focus on liberation, individuality, and embracing a more relaxed and youthful aesthetic.
One of the most iconic fashion trends of the ’20s was the rise of the flapper style. Flappers were seen as the embodiment of the modern, independent woman, and their fashion choices reflected this spirit. Another notable trend of the ’20s was the influence of Art Deco aesthetics. Accessories played a significant role in ’20s fashion. Cloche hats, long pearl necklaces, beaded headbands, and feathered boas were popular choices, complementing the flapper look and adding a touch of elegance and glamour.
Here is a list top 35 of 20s fashion trends:
1. Wedding Dresses
The wedding dress fashion of the 1920s reflected the spirit of the flapper era and the desire for a more modern and liberated style. The dresses embraced simplicity, with a focus on comfort and freedom of movement. The influence of Art Deco and the changing social norms of the time led to a shift in bridal fashion, paving the way for the more diverse and individualistic styles we see today.
Wedding dresses in the 1920s were often made from lightweight fabrics such as silk, chiffon, or lace. These fabrics draped beautifully and allowed for movement on the dance floor. Satin and velvet were also occasionally used for a luxurious touch.
When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding dress, you’ll want to explore various outfit ideas to find a style that suits your taste and the outdoor wedding theme. Check out this article on what to wear to an outdoor wedding for inspiration on attire that will make you feel confident and beautiful on your big day. Whether you prefer classic or unconventional styles, there are options that will complement the outdoor setting.
2. Art Deco Vintage
The Art Deco movement had a significant influence on fashion trends in the 1920s. It was a time of artistic innovation, embracing geometric shapes, bold designs, and modern aesthetics. Here are some key vintage fashion trends inspired by Art Deco in the 1920s like Geometric Patterns, Streamlined Silhouettes, Bold Colors and Contrasts, Luxurious Fabrics, Embellishments and Beading, Statement Accessories, and Cloche Hats.
The makeup trends of the 1920s were also influenced by Art Deco. Women embraced bold and dramatic looks, characterized by dark, smoky eyes, dark red or plum-colored lips, and perfectly manicured nails. The focus was on creating a glamorous and stylized appearance.
3. Men Dress Shirts
The fashion trends for men’s dress shirts in the 1920s embraced a more relaxed and casual aesthetic while maintaining a sense of elegance and style. The detachable collar, soft collar, and lightweight fabrics provided options for different occasions and personal preferences. The looser fit and simpler designs reflected the changing attitudes towards men’s fashion during the Roaring Twenties, reflecting a desire for comfort and freedom of movement.
To add a touch of elegance, some men wore collar bars or pins with their dress shirts. These accessories helped keep the collar in place and added a stylish accent. Collar bars were inserted through the collar points, while collar pins were attached horizontally across the collar.
When it comes to finding the perfect fit for men’s dress shirts, it’s essential to consult a size guide. Understanding the proper measurements is key to achieving a polished and comfortable look. Check out this comprehensive size guide for men’s dress shirts. It provides helpful tips and charts to ensure you select the right size for a sophisticated appearance.
4. Knickerbockers
Knickerbockers were fashionable in the 1920s. Their association with sports and outdoor activities, as well as their comfortable fit and distinctive style, made them a popular clothing item during the decade. Today, knickerbockers continue to be worn for vintage-themed events and as a nostalgic homage to the fashion trends of the Roaring Twenties.
5. Jewelry
The 1920s was a period of significant change and innovation in jewelry fashion. The jewelry of the era reflected the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, with a departure from the heavy, ornate styles of the past. Long pendant necklaces were incredibly popular during the 1920s. They featured a pendant or a tassel hanging from a long chain, often reaching the waist or even lower. These necklaces were designed to complement the low necklines and elongated silhouettes of the era’s dresses.
Tassel earrings became a fashionable accessory in the 1920s. Tassel earrings added a touch of glamour and movement to the face, accentuating the trend of short bobbed hairstyles.
6. Rolled Stockings
The rolled stockings fashion trend of the 1920s embraced the newfound freedom and modernity of the time. By exposing the legs and adding a touch of sensuality, rolled stockings became an essential accessory for completing the fashionable and daring look of the flapper era.
The popularity of rolled stockings influenced the overall aesthetic of 1920s fashion. With the legs becoming a focal point, women’s shoes and hemlines were designed to complement and showcase the rolled stockings. The trend further accentuated the liberated and carefree spirit of the flapper era.
For a playful and vintage-inspired look, try pairing rolled stockings with your outfit. This classic style adds a touch of elegance and femininity to any ensemble. Whether you’re going for a retro 1950s look or a modern take on vintage fashion, rolled stockings are a versatile accessory that can be dressed up or down. Check out these stud girl outfit ideas for inspiration on how to incorporate rolled stockings into your wardrobe.
7. Evening Dress
The evening dress fashion trends of the 1920s reflected the changing attitudes and styles of the time. The shift towards looser silhouettes, bolder designs, and an overall sense of liberation and modernity transformed evening wear into a more relaxed and glamorous affair. The influence of the 1920s can still be seen in modern evening dress designs, with its emphasis on simplicity, elegance, and Art Deco-inspired elements.
The fascination with all things exotic and Oriental during the 1920s influenced evening dress fashion. Dresses featured intricate embroidery, motifs, or patterns inspired by Asian cultures, adding an element of exoticism and glamour.
8. The Skirts Ended Just Below The Knee, Tunic Tops And Sweaters Reaching To The Hips Were Popular.
The trend of skirts ending just below the knee, paired with tunic tops and sweaters reaching to the hips, epitomized the fashionable and rebellious spirit of the 1920s. This style reflected a departure from the restrictive and structured clothing of previous eras, embracing a more relaxed and youthful aesthetic. It represented a new era of women’s fashion, marked by greater freedom, movement, and a celebration of the modern woman.Tunic tops became a fashionable choice to pair with shorter skirts. These tops were loose-fitting and reached the hips. They often had a straight or slightly boxy shape, reflecting the more relaxed and casual aesthetic of the era. Tunic tops were typically made from lightweight fabrics such as silk or cotton, and they offered a comfortable and effortless style.
When styling your outfit with skirts that end just below the knee, consider pairing them with appropriate footwear that complements the length of the skirt. Whether you opt for heels, boots, or flats, choosing the right shoes can enhance your overall look and create a stylish silhouette. Experiment with different options to find the perfect shoe to match your outfit.
9. Robe De Style
The rolled stockings fashion trend of the 1920s embraced the newfound freedom and modernity of the time. By exposing the legs and adding a touch of sensuality, rolled stockings became an essential accessory for completing the fashionable and daring look of the flapper era.
The popularity of rolled stockings influenced the overall aesthetic of 1920s fashion. With the legs becoming a focal point, women’s shoes and hemlines were designed to complement and showcase the rolled stockings. The trend further accentuated the liberated and carefree spirit of the flapper era.
10. Boyish Body
The 1920s marked a significant shift in women’s fashion, embracing a more boyish body shape that deviated from the traditional hourglass figure. Here are some key features and trends of the boyish body fashion in the 1920s: Flatter Silhouette, Drop Waist Dresses, Shift Dresses, Tubular Silhouette, Drop-Panel Skirts, Flattening Undergarments, Sportswear Influence, Shorter Hemlines.
The 1920s witnessed a significant rise in shorter hemlines, with dresses and skirts ending at or above the knee. This trend drew attention away from the lower body curves and further contributed to the boyish body ideal.
11. Marcel Wave
The marcel wave was popular hairstyles in the 1920s via Pinterest The Marcel wave was a popular hairstyle in the 1920s that became synonymous with the glamorous and sophisticated look of the era. The Marcel wave was well-suited for short to medium hair lengths, as it required control and precision to achieve the desired wave pattern. However, women with longer hair also embraced the Marcel wave by pinning up their hair or using hair extensions to create the desired effect. The Marcel wave was particularly popular as an evening or special occasion hairstyle. It exuded sophistication and elegance, making it a favorite choice for formal events, parties, and nights out.
To achieve the iconic Marcel Wave, try incorporating flapper hairstyles into your look. These vintage-inspired hairstyles are perfect for recreating the elegance and glamour of the 1920s. By adding soft waves and curls to your hair, you can achieve the signature Marcel Wave style that was popular during this time period.
12. Shoe Flappers
The 1920s saw a transformation in women’s shoe flapper fashion, influenced by the style and attitude of the flapper era. T-strap shoes were incredibly popular during the 1920s. They featured a strap across the front of the foot and a vertical strap that extended from the center of the toe to the ankle, forming a T-shape. T-strap shoes were often made of leather or fabric and had low to medium-height heels.
Mary Jane shoes also gained popularity during the flapper era. They were low-heeled shoes that featured a rounded toe and a single or multiple straps across the instep. Mary Janes were often made of patent leather or fabric and were available in various colors.
13. Lingerie 20s
Lingerie fashion in the 1920s underwent significant changes, reflecting the shift in societal attitudes and the rise of the flapper era. Here are some key lingerie fashion trends of the 1920s like Boyish Silhouette, Step-In Chemises, Flattening Brassieres, Bias-Cut Silk Slips, Tap Pants, Stockings and Garters, and Lighter Fabrics.
Lingerie in the 1920s embraced the Art Deco aesthetic with intricate embellishments and decorative details. Embroidery, lace, and geometric patterns were common embellishments used to add a touch of glamour to undergarments.
14. Bob Wave
The wavy bob, also known as the “bob wave,” was a popular hairstyle in the 1920s that became an iconic symbol of the flapper era. The wavy bob introduced a new element to the classic bob by incorporating soft waves and curls. Instead of the straight, blunt-cut lines of the traditional bob, the wavy bob featured gentle waves and curls throughout the hair. These waves added movement, texture, and a touch of femininity to the hairstyle.
Creating the waves in the wavy bob often involved a technique called finger-waving. Hair was dampened and manipulated using fingers or a comb to create “S” or “C” shaped waves close to the scalp. The waves were then set with pins or clips and left to dry, resulting in a defined wavy texture.
Achieve the perfect bob wave hairstyle by adding some texture to your hair. Try out crimped hairstyles for women, which can add volume and movement to your bob. The crimped texture gives a unique and stylish look to your hair, making it perfect for any occasion.
15. Cloche Hats
Cloche hats were one of the most iconic fashion accessories of the 1920s. The term “cloche” is derived from the French word for “bell,” which perfectly describes the hat’s characteristic shape. These hats were an essential part of the flapper look and represented the changing fashion trends and social attitudes of the time.
Cloche hats came in various styles and featured a range of embellishments. Simple, unadorned cloche hats were popular for everyday wear, offering a minimalist yet chic look. However, many cloche hats were decorated with decorative elements such as ribbons, bows, feathers, flowers, and intricate beading or embroidery.
16. Wearing Breeches And Riding Boots
The trend of wearing breeches and riding boots in the 1920s reflected the changing societal attitudes towards gender roles and fashion. It represented a desire for greater freedom and independence in women’s clothing choices, while also embracing a more practical and sporty aesthetic. This trend was an important stepping stone in the evolution of women’s fashion, as it laid the foundation for more gender-fluid styles that continue to be embraced today.
The trend of wearing breeches and riding boots had a significant impact on women’s fashion during the 1920s. It challenged traditional notions of femininity and inspired the development of more androgynous and sporty clothing options for women.
To complete your equestrian-inspired look when wearing breeches and riding boots, you can learn how to properly blouse your boots. Blousing your boots not only adds a touch of sophistication to your outfit, but it also keeps your boots securely in place while riding. Whether you opt for a military tuck or use elastic bands, this technique ensures a polished appearance for a day at the stables or a fashionable street style.
17. Sport Suit
The 1920s witnessed a shift in fashion towards more casual and sporty attire, and one popular trend during this time was the sport suit. Sport suits of the 1920s featured a loose and relaxed fit, allowing for ease of movement during athletic activities. They were designed to be comfortable and practical, reflecting the changing attitudes towards women’s clothing and the desire for more freedom and mobility.
The 1920s was a decade that celebrated sports and physical activities. The popularity of sports such as tennis, golf, swimming, and skiing influenced fashion trends, leading to the rise of sportswear, including sport suits.
18. Blouse And Pleated Skirt
The blouse and pleated skirt fashion trend of the 1920s reflected the changing styles and attitudes of the time. It embraced a more relaxed and comfortable approach to dressing while still maintaining a sense of elegance and sophistication. This combination allowed women to express their individuality and embrace the fashionable trends of the flapper era.
Pleated skirts were a common choice to pair with blouses in the 1920s. These skirts featured vertical pleats that added texture and movement to the garment. They were typically knee-length or slightly below the knee, reflecting the shift towards shorter hemlines during the flapper era. Pleated skirts were often made from lightweight fabrics such as silk or chiffon, allowing for a graceful and flowing drape.
19. Blouses And Skirts
The fashion trends for blouses and skirts in the 1920s were greatly influenced by the societal changes and cultural shifts that occurred during the era, particularly with the rise of the “Roaring Twenties” and the women’s suffrage movement. The 1920s witnessed a shift towards more relaxed and androgynous styles. Blouses became looser and less fitted, embracing a straight, almost boxy silhouette. This was influenced by the newfound freedom and desire for functionality in women’s clothing. Skirts often featured pleats or tiers, adding movement and visual interest. Box pleats, accordion pleats, or soft gathers were popular choices for creating texture and dimension.
To create a stylish and feminine outfit, pair your blouse with a skirt that complements your style. Whether you prefer a flowy maxi skirt or a tailored pencil skirt, the key is to find the right balance between comfort and elegance. With endless options available, you can experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique and fashionable look. Check out some outfit ideas to wear with skirts for inspiration on how to rock this classic combination.
20. T-Strap Heel
T-strap heels were a stylish and versatile choice in the 1920s, capturing the spirit of the flapper era. They were a blend of elegance and practicality, with their delicate straps, comfortable heel heights, and dance-ready design. T-strap heels continue to be admired and sought after as a classic vintage shoe style. T-strap heels were characterized by a strap across the front of the foot, forming a “T” shape. This strap provided both style and functionality by securing the foot in place while adding visual interest to the shoe.
Heel heights for T-strap heels in the 1920s were generally low to medium. Flappers favored comfortable and practical footwear, allowing them to dance and move freely. Heels ranged from around one to three inches in height.
21. Double-Breasted Vests
Double-breasted vests were a prominent fashion trend for men in the 1920s, adding a layer of refinement and elegance to formal attire. Their distinctive buttoned front and wide lapels made a statement and helped men achieve a well-tailored and polished look. Whether worn as part of a three-piece suit or paired with more casual ensembles, double-breasted vests were a fashionable choice for the style-conscious gentlemen of the era.
Double-breasted vests were crafted from a range of fabrics, including wool, tweed, and silk. Wool vests were commonly worn for formal occasions, while tweed or linen vests were favored for more casual events. Colors varied from traditional and subdued tones such as gray, navy, or brown to more vibrant hues like green, blue, or patterned designs.
22. A Straw Boater
The straw boater hat embodied the spirit of 1920s fashion, which sought a balance between casual comfort and stylish elegance. It perfectly complemented the era’s relaxed, sporty, and youthful style. The hat’s popularity was further enhanced by its appearance in movies, magazines, and advertisements, solidifying its status as a trendy accessory.
The 1920s saw a surge in sportswear and leisurewear fashion, and the straw boater hat seamlessly fit into this trend. It became an essential accessory for both men and women engaged in various outdoor activities, such as tennis, golf, yachting, and cycling.
To complete your 20s look, don’t forget to top it off with a stylish straw boater. Check out our article on “Types of Hats for Men” to explore 35 different options that are cool and stylish . By choosing the right hat, you can add an extra touch of sophistication to your outfit and truly embrace the fashion trends of the era.
23. Bob’s Hairstyle
The 1920s saw a significant shift in women’s hairstyles, with the introduction of the iconic bob haircut. The bob became a symbol of the liberated and modern “New Woman” of the era. Here are some key features and trends of bob hairstyles in the 1920s like Short and Straight, The Eton Crop, Pageboy Bob, Finger Waves, The Marcel Wave, Hat Compatibility, and Hair Accessories.
The bob hairstyle was well-suited for the fashionable hats of the 1920s. Cloche hats, with their close-fitting design, were often worn with bobs. The hats sat low on the forehead, allowing the bob to be visible while still maintaining a sleek and elegant look.
24. Accessories
Accessories played a significant role in defining the fashion trends of the 1920s. This period marked a shift towards more liberated and modern styles, and accessories were used to complement and enhance the overall look. Here are some key accessory fashion trends of the 1920s, like Long Necklaces, Art Deco-inspired Jewelry, Tassel Jewelry, Feather Accessories, Artistic and Unique Handbags, Gloves, Cloche Hats, Suspenders and Garters.
Complete your 20s fashion look with the perfect accessories. From statement necklaces to cloche hats, the right accessories can elevate your outfit to the next level. Pair your flapper dress with a beaded headband and long gloves for a glamorous touch. Don’t forget a sleek cigarette holder and a feather boa for added flair. If you’re looking for more accessory inspiration, check out our article on what to wear to a casino for 40 awesome outfit ideas to complement your style.
25. Wear Trousers
The 1920s witnessed a significant shift in women’s fashion, and one notable trend was the increasing acceptance and adoption of trousers as part of women’s attire. Trousers gained popularity as part of beach and resort wear during the 1920s. Wide-leg beach pajamas, which consisted of loose-fitting trousers and matching tops, became fashionable for seaside vacations. They offered both comfort and style, reflecting the relaxed and carefree spirit of the era.
26. Top Hats Or A Homburg Hat
During the 1920s, top hats and Homburg hats represented different levels of formality in men’s fashion. While top hats remained a traditional choice for formal events, the Homburg hat offered a stylish and more relaxed alternative. These hat styles captured the transition from the formal and structured fashion of previous decades to the more casual and modern aesthetic of the Roaring Twenties.
Both top hats and Homburg hats in the 1920s often featured wider brims compared to earlier styles. The wide brims provided shade and added a touch of elegance to the overall look. However, as the decade progressed, brims became shorter and more narrow, reflecting the shift towards a more streamlined and youthful fashion aesthetic.
To complete your dapper ensemble, consider pairing your 1920s fashion with a classic men’s hat like a top hat or a homburg hat. These stylish accessories will add a touch of sophistication to your look, whether you’re attending a formal event or just strolling around town. Don’t forget to check out our guide on hat sizes to make sure you find the perfect fit.
27. Gibson Girl Hairstyle
The Gibson Girl hairstyle, with its romantic and voluminous look, made a lasting impact on the fashion and beauty trends of the early 20th century. While it was more closely associated with the late 19th century, its influence and elements could still be seen in the hairstyles of the 1920s, especially in nostalgic revivals and in the transition from longer hairstyles to the iconic bobbed cuts.
In the 1920s, there was also a nostalgic revival of Victorian and Edwardian fashion trends, including the Gibson Girl look. Some women who preferred a more romantic and traditional style adopted elements of the Gibson Girl hairstyle as a way to pay homage to the past and stand out from the trendy bobbed hairstyles.
28. Eton Crop
The Eton Crop hairstyle of the 1920s represented a dramatic shift in women’s hairstyling, embracing short and androgynous looks that challenged societal norms. Its boldness and liberation made it an iconic symbol of the flapper era and an enduring inspiration for modern hairstyles that embrace individuality and self-expression.
The Eton Crop had a significant impact on women’s fashion and overall style in the 1920s. The short hairstyle complemented the popular flapper fashion, which featured loose and straight-cut dresses, dropped waists, and the abandonment of restrictive corsets. The Eton Crop became an integral part of the flapper look, emphasizing the modern and progressive attitudes of the time.
To achieve the iconic Eton Crop hairstyle worn by fashionable women in the 1920s, you can check out our article on the most popular hairstyles from that era. This hairstyle features short, sleek hair that is cut close to the head, giving a modern and edgy look. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to embrace the vintage vibe of the Roaring Twenties.
29. Working Class Women
The fashion trends of working-class women in the 1920s were characterized by practicality, affordability, and a simplified aesthetic. While they might not have had access to the luxurious and extravagant styles of the upper class, they embraced the fashion of the time in ways that suited their needs and circumstances. Their clothing choices reflected the realities of their daily lives, combining comfort, durability, and a touch of style within their means.
To celebrate the resilience and style of working class women, you can explore the fashion trends embraced by female country singers. These talented artists not only captivate us with their music, but also inspire us with their fashion sense. From classic western wear to glamorous stage outfits, their style choices embody strength and elegance. Discover the iconic looks of these powerful women and incorporate elements into your own wardrobe.
30. Apron
Aprons were essential garments worn by women across different social classes during the 1920s. They were worn primarily to protect clothing from dirt, stains, and wear during daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, and working. Aprons were typically made of durable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, and came in various styles, including full aprons that covered the front of the body and half aprons that tie around the waist. Working-class women often wore aprons to protect their clothing while engaging in manual labor or household chores.
31. Dutch Cap
Dutch caps, also known as Dutch bonnets or Dutch hats, were traditional head coverings that originated in the Netherlands. They were characterized by their distinctive shape, which featured a close-fitting cap with a small brim and sometimes a decorative bow or trim. In the 1920s, Dutch caps were occasionally worn by women as part of nostalgic or folk-inspired fashion trends. They added a touch of traditional charm to outfits and were sometimes worn as a statement piece or accessory.
If you’re looking to rock the Dutch Cap hairstyle, consider pairing it with short in front long in back hair. This trendy haircut adds a stylish and modern touch to your overall look, complementing the unique shape of the Dutch Cap. With shorter layers in the front and longer layers in the back, this hairstyle adds dimension and flair.
32. Men Suit Jackets
The fashion trends for men’s suit jackets in the 1920s reflected a departure from the structured and formal styles of previous decades. The sack suit with its loose fit and natural shoulders represented a more relaxed and youthful approach to men’s fashion. This style change aligned with the overall cultural shift of the Roaring Twenties, embracing a more casual and comfortable lifestyle.
Suit jackets in the 1920s typically had three external pockets: two hip pockets and a welted breast pocket. These pockets were functional rather than purely decorative. The breast pocket often featured a pocket square or a silk handkerchief as an added touch of style.
33. Dress With A Dropped Waist And Width At The Hips
The dress with a dropped waist and width at the hips was a revolutionary fashion trend of the 1920s. It represented a departure from the restrictive and structured clothing of previous eras, embracing a more relaxed and modern aesthetic. This style continues to influence contemporary fashion, with its emphasis on minimalism, straight silhouettes, and the celebration of the liberated and independent spirit of women.
The dropped waist and width at the hips were often seen in tunic dresses and flapper dresses. Tunic dresses were straight and loose-fitting with minimal shaping, while flapper dresses featured embellishments, fringe, and beading, adding movement and visual interest to the garment.
For a dress with a dropped waist and width at the hips, it’s important to find the right size that flatters your body shape. Check out this DKNY sizing chart to ensure you choose the perfect fit. This guide will provide you with accurate measurements for tops, dresses, pants, and skirts, ensuring a comfortable and stylish look.
34. Headbands
Headbands were a popular accessory in the 1920s and played a significant role in defining the fashion trends of the era. Headbands were often worn as a complementary accessory to the iconic cloche hats of the 1920s. They were designed to be worn low on the forehead, just above the eyebrows, creating a sleek and stylish look. The most popular style of headband in the 1920s was the bandeau, which was a narrow strip of fabric or metal that wrapped around the head. Bandeau headbands were often wide at the front, tapering towards the back. They provided a sleek and minimalist look that complemented the short bobbed hairstyles of the era.
35. Greta Garbo In French Fashion
Greta Garbo’s impact on French fashion in the 1920s was profound. Her androgynous style, minimalist approach, and confidence challenged traditional norms and encouraged women to embrace a more liberated and sophisticated look. Garbo’s influence can still be seen today, as her timeless fashion choices continue to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts around the world.
Garbo’s signature makeup look emphasized her natural beauty. She favored minimal and understated makeup, with a focus on flawless skin, well-defined eyebrows, and smoky eyes. Her timeless beauty and makeup choices inspired French women to embrace a more natural and sophisticated approach to cosmetics.