The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

  gowns shown. clockwise from the top right. Atelier Aimee Pret A Porter, Pronovias, Badgley Mischka, Claire Pettibone.

The roaring 20’s were an exciting time in America... the rich were very rich and that, of course, is the back drop to the classic novel. It’s got love, betrayal, murder... all of the usual shenanigans.   The fashion in the 20’s was very exciting. Lots of layers and a very modern silhouette is created. The boxy “flapper” dress is en vogue, gowns are made in very light silks and don’t hug the body in the least. Beading and embellishments add fun to very simple shape. The dropped waist is huge!!! Which is a very comfortable and chill compared to the natural and empire waists that came before it. I love this time for fashion, people were finally pushing the boundaries a bit... and you know how I adore breaking rules.

When emulating a era in fashion for you wedding, you have to be very careful not to “copy” the look directly... It can look like a costume very quickly and your wedding is no time for a costume party. So look for similar shapes and ideas that have modern sensibilities. Look for dropped waists, straight/column skirts, and fun sparkly embellishments. And you can definitely rock a pin curl too, but take a cue from these fabulous ladies and make sure it’s got a super 2011 feel to it. You do NOT need to be dressing up as Clara Bow... Now I realize that many of you have no idea who she is, but she was fabulous. Trust me.

Don’t be afraid to find inspiration everywhere... even your bookshelf.

Lauren