The 1920s, known as the Roaring Twenties, was a decade of dramatic social change, which reflected how women's independence impacted fashion. In this blog post, we’re going to showcase 10 movies that showcase the glamorous and inspirational 1920s women's clothing.
The '20s fashion stood out for its innovation, designs, and unique fashion statements. Without a doubt, this era laid the foundations of modern fashion. So, if you're a fashion enthusiast and interested in the fashion history of that time, then you're in the right place.
NOTE: There might be some affiliate links in this article. We only feature the high-quality products from sustainable brands we adore ourselves and we hope you'll like them too. If you use these links to make a purchase, we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
1. The Great Gatsby (2013)
Based on the classic novel of the same name by F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby is a must-watch for anyone obsessed with 1920s fashion.
The Great Gatsby is a movie that speaks to the luxury, excesses, and extravagance of the Roaring Twenties. The costumes, designed by Catherine Martin, are over-the-top extravagant and glamorously gaudy which was the pinnacle of the 1920s style. In this film, you’ll see a wide range of women’s clothes that capture the spirit of the period. From fringed dresses, sequins, and beads in bold colors, designer Martin showcases the iconic flapper style of that time.
The movie features stunning flapper dresses, embellished headbands, and plenty of Art Deco-inspired designs. The wardrobe for the female characters is full of luxurious fabrics, glitzy details, and daring cuts that will leave fashion lovers in awe.
2. Midnight in Paris (2011)
Midnight in Paris is a Woody Allen romantic comedy set in 1920s Paris, and it's a feast for the eyes that brings the magic of the era to life.
Costume designer Sonia Grande’s depiction of the era's fashion is historically accurate and elaborate. Ladies of the day wore their dresses loose and waisted with high hemlines. The fabrics and colors of the dresses, combined with the hats and accessories, amounted to a unique and unforgettable fashion statement. This film is a must-watch for anyone who is a lover of fashion history.
From the iconic bob hairstyles to the glamorous sequin dresses and vintage accessories, the female characters in the movie flaunt some of the most iconic styles of the era.
3. Downton Abbey (2010-2015)
Downton Abbey is a T.V show that portrays the ladies’ fashionable clothing of the Edwardian era to the early 20s. In this period, dresses were elaborate, glamorous, and dramatically stylish, often featuring large hats, beads, lace, and chiffon. The show did an outstanding job of bringing the 1920s fashion to life, thanks to designer Caroline McCall, who went to great lengths to reproduce iconic clothing pieces of the period.
4. Coco Before Chanel (2009)
Coco Before Chanel tells the story of Coco Chanel's early life and the establishment of her eponymous brand. The fashion that we see throughout the movie ranges from delicate lace blouses to tailored suits, all with impeccable attention to detail.
Coco Chanel's influence on fashion in the 1920s is undeniable. The biopic of the fashion icon captivates the essence of the women’s clothing of the period. Chanel was known for popularizing the boyish short haircuts and liberating the use of comfortable clothing for women. In her designs, Chanel emphasized simplicity, comfort, and practicality, and it was an integral part of her fashion philosophy. The costumes in this biopic were authentic and brought the iconic fashion statement of the era to life.
If not for Chanel, the 1920s fashion would have been different.
5. Chicago (2002)
As a musical set during the roaring 20s, Chicago offers us a visual extravaganza of great fashion moments. The movie shows off sassy flapper dresses, feather boas, and over-the-top hats, all of which will definitely spark inspiration for your next vintage look.
Set in Chicago in the 1920s, the movie showcases the flamboyant costumes that embody the quintessential 20s fashion, including bodices, stockings, and garters. The film's costume designer, Colleen Atwood, showcases the jazz age style of the Roaring Twenties with style and class, making it one of the most interesting displays of fashion in modern cinema history.
6. The Artist (2011)
Set during the transitional period between silent movies and talkies, The Artist captures the fashion of the 1920s beautifully. The black and white movie is filled with stunning flapper dresses, t-strap heels, and long necklaces that are perfect for a vintage-inspired look.
Peppy Miller (played by Bérénice Bejo), a young aspiring actress who crosses paths with a famous film star George Valentin, dons flapper-style dresses, adorned with intricate beading, sequins, and feathers, emphasizing the era's newfound freedom and liberation. The film also highlights the iconic dropped waistlines and loose, flowing silhouettes, which were popular during the time. Additionally, the Valentin's costumes exude sophistication, with tailored suits, high-waisted trousers, and suspenders that epitomize the men's fashion of the 1920s.
7. Boardwalk Empire (2010 - 2014)
Boardwalk Empire is a period drama television series that takes place during the Prohibition Era in New Jersey. The show is known for its exquisite set design and costume detail, featuring lots of luscious fur collars, cloche hats, and glamourous dresses that epitomize the fashion of the 1920s.
8. The Roaring Twenties (1939)
Shot during the golden era of Hollywood itself, The Roaring Twenties explores the darker side of the 1920s, while also showcasing the exquisite fashion of the era. You can see how the female characters' style changes throughout the movie from conservative to more daring flapper wear.
9. The Women (1939)
This classic movie should not be left out of any 1920s inspired fashion haul. The Women features an all-female cast that is dressed in high fashion throughout the movie. From fur coats and long gloves to fitted jackets and stunning dresses, this movie has got it all.
10. Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries (2012 - 2015)
Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries is an Australian crime drama series set in the late 1920s. The fashion, hairstyles, and accessories are certainly some of the best you will ever see. The show is an excellent resource if you want to explore the fashion of this era further.
Conclusion
The 1920s were a time of great change, especially in the fashion world. The movies and shows mentioned above not only entertain and inspire but also offer us a glimpse into the history of the era. The style and iconic fashion of the period have influenced fashion brands for generations. With a variety of ways to incorporate 1920s fashion into our everyday wear, we can draw inspiration from these movies and add a touch of the Roaring Twenties to our 21st-century wardrobe, or while going to a retro party. So, let us know in the comments, which of these movies did you like the most?
