Flapper in the 1920's was a term applied to a "new breed" of young Western women who wore short skirts, bobbed their hair, listened to jazz, and flaunted their disdain for what was considered acceptable behaviour. Flapper's beaviour was considered outlandish at the time and redefined women's roles. The image of flappers were young women who went by night to jazz clubs where they danced provocatively, smoked cigarettes through long holders and openly drank alcohol, a defiant act in the American period of Prohibition.
In addition to their irreverant behaviour, flappers were known for their style, which largely emerged from French fashions, especially those pioneered by Coco Chanel, the effect on dress of the rapid spread of American jazz, and the popularization of dancing that accompanied it.
The flapper style made girls look young and boyish: short hair, flattened breasts and straight waists accentuated it. Flapper dresses were straight and loose, leaving the arms bare and dropping the waistline to the hips. High heels also came into vogue at the time, reaching 2-3 inches. Boyish cuts were in vogue, especially the bob cut. Finger waving was used as a means of styling. Hats were still required wear and popular styles included the Newboy Cap and Cloche Hat. Jewelry usually consisted of art deco pieces, especially many layers of beaded necklaces.
Flapper Fabulous 1920's Deluxe Womens Costume
The evolving flapper look required heavy make-up in comparison to what had been previously been acceptable. With the invention of the metal lipstick container as well as compact mirrors bee stung lips came into vogue. Dark eyes, especially Kohl-rimmed, were the style. Blush also came into vogue.
Flapper - 1920's Womens Costume - Red
Although the appearance typically associated now with flappers (straight waists, short hair and a hemline above the knee) did not fully emerge until about 1926, there was an early association in the public mind between unconventional appearance, outrageous behaviour, and the word "flapper".
20's Cutie Flapper Womens Costume
You'll be the cat's meow in one of our Flapper Costumes!
