Are the roaring twenties – with their over-the-top, embellished, sparkling and party-time vibe – actually back in style? We confess: we bought a tiara for the first time in our lives this month. No idea where we’ll wear it, but it just felt right. Our ace correspondent Funto Omojola has researched what the fashion experts are saying about our pent-up desires for dressing in an “extra,” roaring twenties fashion style as we emerge from our coronavirus cocoons in 2021. And how to channel the post-coronavirus pandemic roaring twenties luxury fashion trend of 2021 into your wardrobe with 5 easy pieces.
Are the roaring twenties back? Here’s why 2021 may be the year of dressing “extra”.
On the heels of the 1918 Spanish Flu and World War I came the Roaring ‘20s; a time of glitz, glamour, and an edge that permeated everything from music to style. As we near brighter days ahead during COVID-19 with the vaccine rollout, we may be heading towards a similar time of extravagance and indulgence — especially when it comes to fashion.
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We’re already seeing iterations of roaring 20’s-inspired wear in the media, from tiaras and statement necklaces seen on “Bridgeton” to the lavish accessories worn on “Bling Empire.” And while we’re not yet out of the woods with the virus, people are itching to get out, dress up and do it bigger than ever before. Here’s what our fashion expert friends had to say about why 2021 may be the perfect time to be “extra” in terms of your look and what it means for your fashion shopping list this year.
Ready to step out in style
The fashion industry took a huge hit this past year. In fact, the average market value of apparel and fashion fell by almost 40% between the start of January and the end of March 2020, according to McKinsey’s 2020 State of Fashion Report. But as the vaccine continues to roll out and the fear starts to dissipate, insiders are predicting an age of mass consumerism that may mirror the time of the Roaring ‘20s.
“Retail has had a very quiet year but that’s about to change,” Samantha Brown, wardrobe stylist, tells Dandelion Chandelier. “People are anxious to shop, live and celebrate after being holed up for the last year.”
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After a year where we’ve seen brands and shoppers alike gravitate towards loungewear and sportswear, our experts say that people are ready to step into celebratory items that make them feel great.
“I think glitz, sequins and embellishment will be back after a year of monochromatic sweatsuits,” says Brown. She adds that shoppers are likely craving pieces that are bright, fun, and long-lasting.
Indeed, as consumers turn their focus away from home-wear and put more care into their social wardrobes, the focus will be on value and longevity.
“Luxury is difficult to define, but I think the greatest luxury going forward will be the commitment to investment staples,” says Brown.
Glamour with a modern edge
Women’s Fashion in the Roaring 20’s was marked by empowering new dress styles and over-the-top jewelry pieces. Our experts predict that we’ll be seeing similar freeing and extravagant designs hit the runway soon.
“We’re in for a season or two of exaggerated silhouettes,” Brown says. “Think 20s glitz meets 80s abundance — that’s where we’re heading.”
And according to Brown, that includes oversized pants, strong shoulders, and some vibrant makeup trends after everyone’s been rocking natural faces during quarantine.
For Talia Hurst, assistant stylist at personal shopping consultancy Bree Jacoby, the devil will be in the details. “I think we’ll be seeing a lot of flashy accessories; pearl earrings, wild hair accessories, and bold hats,” she says, adding that daring Art Deco-inspired prints and geometric patterns will likely hit the scene as well.
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“The best way to try a new trend is to dip your toe in!”
Embracing the Roaring 20’s trend doesn’t mean you have to go over the top. In fact, when it comes to styling loud numbers, Brown suggests experimenting with smaller accessories because they’re much easier commitments. “The best way to try a new trend is to dip your toe in!” she adds.
Hurst agrees. “I would start with accessories if you are going to go gaudy,” she says. “Consider something like a camisole and skinny jean with a chunky earring, or a little black dress with a beaded bag.”
And when it comes to true 20’s allure, who can forget the slip dress? Although Hurst admits that the slip dress has never gone out of style, she says it can be a great way to incorporate some charm into your closet. “It can be worn with a heel or a leather jacket and a sneaker,” she suggests.
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five easy ways to make 2021 the year of dressing “extra”
Get inspired to take on this roaring twenties fashion trend in 2021 with these expert-approved pieces to try.
1. the pearl earring
Nothing says extravagance like pearls. And although these Baroque-style earrings from the MET are reminiscent of a few centuries pre-roaring 20’s, they can add some instant glamour to any look.
BUY NOW – $198.
2. the satin midi dress
Significant Other’s “Aura” slip dress is cut from lustrous blush satin and sports a flattering halter silhouette. The ruched front front and tie neck are elegant, flattering and just the right kind of extra.
BUY NOW – $230.
3. the Crystal headband
Our experts tell us that the modern shopper wants something good that will last. This impressive Area crystal-encrusted headband may just be the investment staple that your accessory drawer needs.
BUY NOW – $450.
4. The shimmering sandal
“High heels all but disappeared this past year,” Brown tells Dandelion Chandelier, “but I have a feeling that women will be back in heels by the end of ‘21.” What better way to step into the glamour than with these metallic leather bronze stilettos from Stuart Weitzman.
BUY NOW – $149.
5. the shiny chic bag
This ‘Iconic 1969’ bag from Paco Rabanne is made from brass chain mail in a rectangular silhouette suspended from a metal chain. Its natural sheen looks spectacular with a fluid silk or satin dress.
BUY NOW: $1,200.
Are the roaring twenties back? Here’s why 2021 may be the year of dressing “extra”.
That’s our take on the potential return of the era of dressing “extra” in luxury fashion and perhaps even a return to the roaring twenties style in 2021. What do you think, dear reader? Are you in on this?
join our community
For access to insider ideas and information on the world of luxury, sign up for our Dandelion Chandelier Newsletter here. And see luxury in a new light.
This article contains affiliate links to products independently selected by our editors. As an Amazon Associate, Dandelion Chandelier receives a commission for qualifying purchases made through these links.
Funto Omojola is a New York-based features writer covering lifestyle, fashion and money. Her work has been published by MarketWatch, Vice and the New York Post, among others.