1920s party

The 1920s are now a distant memory. All the more reason to bring this turbulent decade back to life for a few hours. They were wild times. After the war and the major economic challenges came the upswing, along with a growing enthusiasm for social gatherings. Whether dance parties, visits to the theater and cinema, or casino adventures, the entertainment options were diverse for those who could afford them.

Immerse yourself in a world without smartphones or television. Dress in the characteristic style of the 1920s and discover a whole new side of yourself. Embrace the newfound confidence of the women, dance the Charleston with your loved one, and enjoy the decadent buffet. You will never forget this party.

Of course, the lady’s glamorous outfit also included sultry makeup. To create an irresistible appearance, it was applied generously—light powder, rouge on the cheeks, deep-red doll-like lips, smoky eyes or eyes outlined completely in black, and extremely thin, elongated eyebrows. That was the standard routine.

Although sunbathing was just becoming popular and tanned skin was appearing everywhere, a fair complexion was considered very refined. This made the dark eye makeup and deep-red lips stand out even more.

Flapper girls also routinely touched up their makeup in public, as this was considered improper and was part of their rebellion. The special finishing touch was pearl eyelashes. Russian aristocrats brought this unusual technique to Paris, Berlin, and Hollywood. Since it was very time-consuming and required considerable skill, the beautiful pearls were often seen only on the eyelashes of dancers and actresses—and sometimes actors, too.

With this makeup, the woman of the 1920s wore a bob or bobbed hairstyle. Short hair was perfect for finger waves. This style lent an air of lightness and elegance. But finger waves also looked chic with long hair.

Except for actors, men did not usually wear makeup. Instead, the well-dressed man of the 1920s was always clean-shaven and slicked his hair straight back with pomade.

People made varied use of their leisure time. Those who could afford it enjoyed going out. Dance clubs, nightclubs, and ballrooms were popular places to dance. Jazz, blues, swing, and popular songs were played. A special feature were the so-called dance partners. Former officers who were now unemployed hired themselves out as gigolos.

Other forms of entertainment included bars, wine taverns, burlesque and cabaret, theaters, and Russian tea rooms.

People wanted to enjoy life to the fullest. Decadence began to take hold. Large cities developed into pulsating metropolises. Illuminated advertising signs and the many evening attractions turned night into day.

Cinemas, which had already emerged before the First World War, now attracted increasing attention. They developed into a mass medium. People flocked to the cinemas to watch silent films. Cinema was still somewhat different then from what it is today. Short films were shown before the main feature, and occasionally nature or travel films were screened as well. There was also always a newsreel. A silent film was never completely silent, however, as it was always accompanied by music, usually piano music. Especially in the early days, the music was primarily intended to drown out the projector noise so that viewers could enjoy a pleasant experience. In 1927, Hollywood brought the first sound film to cinemas, thereby setting new standards for the burgeoning film industry.

The Roaring Twenties are synonymous with glitz and glamour, but also with drug dealing, alcohol smuggling, and the Mafia. All of this can flow into the party atmosphere. This theme party is all about fun and games, of course with plenty of spectacle.

Gold is your best friend at a 1920s party. That means some Christmas decorations can also be used wonderfully for the occasion. Tinsel is just one example. As a curtain or door decoration, it gives the room extra sparkle.

Most people do not have their homes furnished in the style of the 1920s. However, the right wall décor can quickly create that impression. Simply hang up pictures featuring motifs from the era. Add gold curtains and lace fabrics, and the room will immediately feel glamorous and dimly lit. If you do not have a canapé in your living room, velvet or satin fabrics can be used to enhance the sofa with a throw. A rich burgundy or classic gold is ideal.

Golden string lights provide the right lighting, preferably with round shades, because in the 1920s, lamps were round or oval and made of metal or glass. Gold was highly popular here too. Our tip: Use only warm light, otherwise the glamorous atmosphere will disappear.

Feathers were very popular. Black feathers on a golden background create a wonderful contrast. You can find more decorative accessories from us or in an antiques shop, often at a low price. A gramophone or an old rotary-dial telephone as a decorative element in the party room completes the atmosphere.

The penchant for glamour was also evident in houses and apartments. People wanted to bring a touch of luxury into their lives. Metallic colors and gold therefore played a major role. Combined with velvet, silk, and marble, they could be used to create magnificent designs. The colors were bold, such as wine red, indigo, and black. Imaginative décor—geometric patterns, for example—drew attention. These patterns also appeared on wallpaper, carpets, and decorative cushions.

An opulent velvet sofa, a coffee table with a smoothly polished surface and golden legs, and a soft carpet with an elegant pattern: That is typical of the 1920s.

Overall, the atmosphere was warm and refined. Striking round lights bathed the rooms in a cozy glow. Mirrors not only fit perfectly into the glamorous style; they also made a room appear larger.

During this decade, it was customary to have a home bar. People loved to celebrate, so they wanted to spend rousing hours with friends over cocktails and champagne, enjoying them in style from crystal glasses.

The design of the 1920s probably looks familiar to you. That’s because it continues to live on in the glamour style to this day, enriched only with new elements from the current decade.

In the Roaring Twenties, people danced the night away. A successful themed party definitely needs music. Jazz, blues, or swing: Everyone will want to move to these rhythms. The party will feel even more authentic if you choose songs that were popular during this era. The charm of these songs is incomparable.

If you are planning a small celebration or do not have much space for dancing, you can also show an old black-and-white film that drew people to the cinemas at the time, such as “Gold Rush,” “The Kid,” “The Man Who Laughs,” or “Ben-Hur.” Serve culinary specialties and delicious cocktails alongside it. If all the guests wear a typical 1920s outfit, you will feel as though you have traveled through time.

If you are holding your themed party at a rented venue, we have an idea to add some excitement. In the 1920s, there were many hidden bars with concealed entrances. Hang a sign reading “closed” on the front door and let your guests enter through the secret back entrance. Only those who give the password from the invitation may enter. A staged raid during the party would be a truly spectacular event. It should be rehearsed beforehand so that your guests can enjoy themselves immensely.

A casino with gaming tables is also a fitting venue. On a smaller scale, you can even transform a basement into a gambling den. After all, people loved to gamble in the 1920s.

If you know someone among your friends and acquaintances who is familiar with mysticism and esotericism, ask them to bring the tarot cards and Ouija board. Fascination with the sixth sense was widespread.