What to Wear to a Great Gatsby Party – Amazon Finds
So you’ve been invited to a Great Gatsby party. Or wedding?
Brilliant!
Except now you’re standing in front of your wardrobe at 11pm the night before, surrounded by a pile of clothes that definitely don’t say 1920s glamour and wondering how on earth you’re going to pull this off.
Been there.
Done that.
Almost wore a sequin Christmas jumper by accident.
I’m Shahena, bridal hair and makeup artist over 16 years. Yes, I did A LOT of these looks! Great Gatsby themed events used to be some of my favourite bookings because the brief was always the same: make me look like I just stepped out of a 1920s speakeasy.
And today I’m going to help you do exactly that, without the stress, without the last-minute panic and without spending a fortune.
Let’s get into it.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click and purchase through my links I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely think are worth it.
What is a Great Gatsby Dress Code, Exactly?
Before we get into the outfits, let’s quickly establish what a Great Gatsby dress code actually means, because “1920s glamour” can mean different things to different people.
The Great Gatsby era…the Roaring Twenties…was all about excess, glamour and rebellion after the austerity of World War One.
- Flapper dresses — dropped waist, fringed hemlines, heavily beaded
- Art Deco patterns — geometric shapes, bold lines, lots of gold and black
- Feathers, pearls and headbands — the accessories were everything
- Dramatic makeup — dark eyes, bold lips, sharp brows
- Gold, silver, black, champagne — your colour palette sorted
Basically if it sparkles, shimmers or has fringe…you’re on the right track.
The Classic Flapper Dress: Your Go To Gatsby Look
The easiest and most recognisable Gatsby outfit is the flapper dress. It’s foolproof, it photographs beautifully and you’ll never look out of place wearing one.
What to look for:
- Dropped waist (sits at the hips not the natural waist)
- Fringe detail — the more the better honestly
- Beading and sequins — catches the light brilliantly for photos
- Midi or knee length — authentic to the era
Colours to go for: gold, black, silver, champagne, deep green or burgundy.
Great Gatsby Accessories: This is Where the Magic Happens
Here’s what I always told my bridal clients, the outfit is the canvas, the accessories are the painting. And for a Gatsby look, accessories are non negotiable.
The Headband
The 1920s headband is THE signature piece of a Great Gatsby look. Whether it’s feathered, jewelled or beaded, wear one. It instantly transforms even the simplest outfit into a full Gatsby look.
Pearls and Long Necklaces
Long pearl necklaces were everywhere in the 1920s. Layer two or three of different lengths for an authentic look. Faux pearls work perfectly, nobody needs to know.
Long Gloves
Optional but absolutely stunning if you want to go full glam. Elbow length satin gloves in white, black or champagne instantly elevate any Gatsby look.
Feather Boa or Trim
A feathered stole or boa draped over the shoulders adds instant 1920s drama. Great for photos. Even better for making an entrance.
Great Gatsby Makeup to Match Your Outfit
The outfit is only half the story. Gatsby makeup is bold, dramatic and totally unapologetic.
The key elements:
- Dark smoky eyes — think kohl liner, dark shadow, dramatic lashes
- Bold red or deep berry lips — the classic 1920s lip was dark and defined
- Strong, defined brows — thin and arched for authenticity
- Porcelain base — matte, flawless skin
Check out my blog post below for more ideas on Gatsby looks!
What to Wear if You Don’t Want a Flapper Dress
Not everyone wants to go full flapper and that’s completely fine. Here are some alternatives that still nail the Gatsby brief:
The Embellished Midi Dress
A heavily beaded or sequinned midi dress in gold or black reads as 1920s glamour without being overtly costume like.
Perfect if you want to look dressed up but wearable.
Wide Leg Trousers and Embellished Top
A 1920s inspired wide leg trouser in champagne or black paired with a heavily embellished top is a sophisticated and slightly unexpected Gatsby look.
Add the accessories and you’re sorted.
The Tuxedo Look
Channel Daisy Buchanan’s more rebellious side with a tailored tuxedo jacket, wide leg trousers and statement jewellery. Art Deco inspired and effortlessly chic.
Great Gatsby Hair: The Finishing Touch
You don’t need to book a hairdresser for this. A few simple styles work perfectly:
- Finger waves — the iconic 1920s wave. YouTube tutorials make this easier than it looks.
- Low chignon or bun — sleek and polished, works beautifully with a headband
- Short bob wave — if you have a bob you’re already halfway there
- Pin curls — rolled and pinned for an authentic vintage finish
Whatever you do… add the headband. It ties everything together instantly.
Where to Buy Great Gatsby Outfits in the UK
My honest recommendation? Amazon. Here’s why:
- Fast delivery — even next day if you’ve left it last minute (no judgement)
- Huge range at every price point
- Easy returns if it doesn’t fit
- Customer photos so you can see how it actually looks on real people
ASOS also has great options if you want something a bit more fashion-forward rather than costume-specific. Just search “1920s inspired dress” or “Great Gatsby party dress.”
FAQ: Your Great Gatsby Outfit Questions Answered
What colours are appropriate for a Great Gatsby party?
Gold, black, silver, champagne, deep green, burgundy and white are all authentic to the era. Avoid bright modern neons — think muted, rich or metallic tones.
Do I have to wear a flapper dress to a Great Gatsby party?
Absolutely not. Any embellished, beaded or sequined outfit in an era-appropriate colour works. The accessories do most of the heavy lifting.
What shoes do you wear to a Great Gatsby party?
T-bar heels, Mary Jane shoes or strappy heeled sandals in gold, black or nude beige are all perfect. Comfort is also important, you’ll be dancing. Allegedly.
Can I wear trousers to a Great Gatsby party?
Yes, wide leg tailored trousers in champagne or black with an embellished top and accessories read as very 1920s chic.
Is a Great Gatsby outfit expensive?
It doesn’t have to be. A decent flapper dress on Amazon can cost as little as £20-£30. Add a headband, some faux pearls and bold makeup and you have a full look for under £50.
You’ve Got This
A Great Gatsby outfit doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. The formula is simple: shimmer, fringe or sequins + 1920s headband + bold makeup = you’re sorted.
If you go full flapper or take a more subtle approach, own it. The 1920s was all about confidence and having a good time. Channel that energy and you’ll nail it.
Now go have the time of your life at that party.
Loved this guide? Save it for later and share it with whoever else is panicking about what to wear.
More Gatsby looks click here!
Drop a comment below, what are you wearing to your Gatsby party?
I’d love to know!
Shahena x
