Style inspired by The Great Gatsby

After seeing Baz Luhrmann’s recent adaptation of The Great Gatsby —
or even just the previews for it — it’s pretty hard not to fall in love with the fashion of such a glamorous era. Get the look of the Roaring ’20s for yourself with these fun and stylish pieces.

After World War I, people needed to feel as though everything was OK again. After years of wearing drab, inexpensive clothes to support the war effort, being able to throw on pretty things was a welcome change. As beautifully captured in The Great Gatsby, very little about 1920s fashion was boring. The colours were bold, the styles were daring, and the accessories added major pizzazz. This is one style era with which you can really let your inhibitions go and just have fun!

Lots and lots of pearls

Pearls played a big role when it came to looking sophisticated and glamorous during the 1920s, so don’t be afraid to work them into all your favourite accessories — from earrings to hairpins — to snag the look for yourself. You might not be able to afford a string of real pearls, but this bejeweled medallion pearlescent necklace (forever21.com, $16) will let you feel all dolled up at a very reasonable price point.

Sexy, sturdy heels

Tired of your 4-inch stilettos? Then you’ll be happy to hear you can toss them aside when pursuing a vintage Roaring ’20s look. The ladies of that time favoured lower, sturdier heels — far better suited to dancing the night away! For everyday wear, check out these fun and casual quilting-class heels (modcloth.com, $70). Or for your next elegant night out, strap on these all-dressed-up heels (modcloth.com $95). You can finally be comfortable while looking great.

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Bold cuts and colours

Although women of the 1920s tended to select more demure styles for everyday wear, they weren’t afraid to let their necklines drop when it was time to get all glammed up. And that sexy look is beautifully captured in this pleated midi dress (mango.com $130). The relaxed fit, feminine sheer fabric and flirty pink colour all come together to give it just the vintage vibe you’re looking for.

Plenty of hair accessories

Whether women were sporting a casual look or were all dressed up, their hair could never be left out of the fashion equation during this era. Clips, scarves, headbands, hats and pins could all be used to ensure a lady’s look was perfectly put together. For a day at the beach or drinks on the patio, this vibrant Cara “Opalescent Dream” head wrap (nordstrom.com, $40) will add colour and sparkle to any look. Or for a more modern and edgy option, check out this Tasha “Bling Block” head wrap (nordstrom.com, $34).

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Daring yet demure dresses

The ’20s played around with all sorts of beautiful textures and colours when it came to fabric; bold hues, intricate patterns and unique detailing all made appearances. Falling to a daring-for-the-time but sophisticated-by-today’s-standards length of just below the knees, a dress inspired by this era can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe. This stunning long lace dress (zara.com $100) beautifully captures all the best qualities of 1920s fashion. The hem falls to a perfect length, the detailed lace patterns are wonderfully ornate, and the loose fit is both relaxed and stylish — you’ll feel like you’ve walked out of a scene from The Great Gatsby every time you slip it on.

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Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. via WENN