With the end of World War I in 1918 came great social, economic, and cultural changes that reverberated throughout America in the 1920s. The rejection of social formalities and the rise of women’s independence and individuality directly affected women’s fashion. Gone were the heavily corseted and petticoated silhouettes seen at the turn of the century, replaced by simplistic tubular, shapeless, and androgynous garments in economical fabrics. While simplicity in construction typified both day and eveningwear, the latter were embellished with ornate beadwork, sequins, and embroidery, culminating in the iconic flapper dresses for which the decade is remembered today. This exhibit showcases over 30 period dresses worn by the everyday American woman between 1920 and 1929, and places them in the social and cultural contexts of the day.

Flapper Fashion of the 1920s is guest curator by Ashley Webb ‘07 from bustle textiles.