The Gatsby Effect
Welcome to a reimagined roaring twenties, where glitz and glamour are refined, hedonism thrives, and the prohibition has ended.
Image Siana Siliquini @_colletta / Styling The Stylist’s Guide 20
Indulgent weddings are a sign of the times. From flowing Champagne towers to vintage-inspired dresses, gilded décor and glittering after-parties, couples are throwing it back to the bygone era of the 1920s.
And there’s a good reason for it. The ‘roaring twenties’ were born from a time of social upheaval. Just like the last few years, the decade started with Spanish influenza and a period of hyperinflation following World War I. So, in these turbulent times, it’s no wonder we’re gravitating back towards the ornate tendencies of the ‘20s.
With this in mind, fashion, art and design have drawn from last century’s cultural influence, and today’s brides have taken note. They’re eager to take a turn on tradition, pushing boundaries of what to expect from a modern wedding by reimagining dress trends, décor and glittering after-parties from the opulent era.
The fashion
In the 1920s, brides stepped away from the layers of lace popular in wedding gowns from the turn of the century, instead opting for sleek drop-waist designs made of silk. While everyday party wear was sequined, fringed and feathered, the roaring twenties bridal maximalism was reserved for bedazzled headpieces and elaborate veils. Today’s self-referential fashion draws from both pools. Relaxed silhouettes feature delicate vintage-inspired beaded designs, feather trims or pearl-drop designs. Even dress shades are shifting from wedding white towards buttery ivory and Champagne colours, just like the 1920s style.
The accessories
Gatsby glamour is at an all-time high with a resurgence of jewel-encrusted headpieces, pearl detailing and Juliet cap veils. But these looks scream modern-day Daisy Buchanan instead of outdated design. Brides are bringing the essence of these looks into this century. Juliet caps act as the perfect veil for Boho brides (as famously styled by Kate Moss), diamond headpieces are now subtly fastened in the hair to add an understated shine, and pearls are loosely scattered throughout long locks to achieve the trend of the moment, snowflake hair. Cathedral veils also took centre stage a century ago and have remained a popular choice for brides ever since.
Acler co-founder and Creative Director Kathryn Forth, and husband Jim Hawtin, opted for a glamorous ‘20s-inspired theme.
Images Gretl Watson-Blazewicz
The décor
Gilded and geometric art-deco design reigned in the 1920s, and its influence is shaping how modern-day couples style their special day. Back then, colour palettes consisted
of black, white, jewel-toned shades and metallic accents, and today’s modern brides are also using these colours throughout wedding their design – think an ornate metallic frame for your seating chart, plum flowers as your table centrepieces or deep-shaded velvet sofas. You could also try featuring strong geometric lines or art-deco designs in your wedding stationery, using soft rounded edges in your tablescape, and creating soft lighting with dramatic candelabras. It’s all about feeling glamorous, without being garish, and capturing a classic look. Seal the deal by booking a venue that hits the same notes as Jay Gatsby’s sprawling estate.
The party
It was all about the party in the roaring twenties! How else do you think the era received its name? Giving your guests a great night is a sign of the times. While we’re not shimming in flapper dresses to jazz music, the current cultural parallels have seen a greater emphasis placed on wedding after-parties, with many becoming multiple day affairs with the rise of lavish rehearsal dinners and recovery sessions. Weddings are the perfect setting to let loose, celebrate love and leave those worries behind. Vintage Champagne towers are a must, while many brides are also choosing to slip into a sequined or feathered number for the after-party. Live bands, flowing drinks and sparklers will also help you throw the roaring twenties after-party of your life!
