Top 10 Things to Have for a 1920s-Themed Party

The Roaring Twenties were all about glitz, glamour, jazz, and wild parties behind closed doors. The era of prohibition, flappers, speakeasies, and the rise of Art Deco style has made its mark as one of the most iconic decades in fashion and culture.

Hosting a 1920s-themed party is your chance to bring back that vintage sparkle, douse everything in gold and black, and make your guests feel like they’ve stepped into a scene from The Great Gatsby. But what does it take to truly transport your party into that fabulous decade?

Whether you're planning a birthday bash, a themed New Year's Eve celebration, or a roaring costume party, here are the Top 10 Things to Have for a 1920s-Themed Party—all designed to dazzle your guests and rank well on Google.

1. Flapper Dress – The Star of the Show

Tags: #flapperdress #1920s #vintagefashion #partywear #glamour

No 1920s party outfit is complete without the iconic flapper dress. Symbolic of the Jazz Age rebellion against the traditional, the flapper dress is the epitome of #1920sstyle—featuring fringe, sequins, and bold hemlines that make dancing effortless and stylish.

Why It’s Essential:

• Instantly evokes the spirit of the era

• Perfect for dancing the Charleston or shimmy

• Adds shimmer, sparkle, and sass to your party

Pro Tip:

Look for a dress with art deco patterns, metallic embroidery, or layered fringe. Popular color choices include gold, black, silver, and red. Pair with T-strap heels or Mary Janes for the full effect.

2. Pearl Necklace – The Quintessential 1920s Accessory

Tags: #pearls #accessories #vintagefashion #glamour #partyaccessories

A long pearl necklace draped around your neck is as 1920s as it gets. These elegant strands were beloved by flappers and socialites alike for their ability to turn any outfit into a statement.

Why It’s Essential:

• Adds instant vintage charm

• A nod to the lavish lifestyles of the time

• Looks gorgeous layered or knotted

Pro Tip:

Wear multiple strands of faux or real pearls, and knot them for a classic touch. Pearls also make a great accessory for gentlemen's lapels or as part of a centerpiece.

3. Feathered Headband – A Touch of Jazz-Age Flair

Tags: #headband #vintageaccessories #party #1920sstyle #glamour

Every great Gatsby girl needs a feathered headband to top off her look. Whether it's adorned with sequins, beads, or brooches, this accessory turns heads while adding height and drama to your outfit.

Why It’s Essential:

• Elevates the overall look with flair

• Channels the authentic flapper aesthetic

• A quick and affordable accessory that makes a statement

Pro Tip:

Choose headbands with metallic tones and embellishments like peacock feathers, rhinestones, or velvet. Position it just above your brow for that true 1920s elegance.

4. Jazz Playlist – Set the Mood with Swing

Tags: #jazzmusic #partyvibes #music #1920sparty #party

No 1920s-themed event is complete without the sultry sounds of jazz. Music was the heart of the era—played in smoky speakeasies, luxury lounges, and dance halls.

Why It’s Essential:

• Creates an authentic atmosphere

• Encourages guests to dance and mingle

• Adds rhythm and energy to your party flow

Pro Tip:

Include classics from Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Bessie Smith, and Ella Fitzgerald. Mix in electro-swing tracks for a modern twist on the classic sound.

5. Cocktail Shaker – Bring the Speakeasy to Life

Tags: #cocktailshaker #mixology #party #1920sstyle #speakeasy

During Prohibition, alcohol was banned—but that only made cocktails more creative and exciting. A cocktail shaker is a must-have to whip up old-school drinks with flair.

Why It’s Essential:

• Helps you serve authentic 1920s cocktails

• Adds performance and style behind your bar

• Makes guests feel like they’re in a secret speakeasy

Pro Tip:

Serve era-inspired cocktails like:

• Bee’s Knees (gin, lemon juice, honey syrup)

• French 75 (gin, champagne, lemon juice)

• Sidecar (cognac, Cointreau, lemon juice)

Invest in a stylish stainless-steel or gold shaker for added glam.

6. Vintage Decor – Transform the Space

Tags: #vintagedecor #partydecor #artdeco #1920sparty #decor

The right vintage decor turns a regular room into a 1920s time capsule. Focus on Art Deco patterns, bold geometric designs, and glamorous gold and black themes.

Why It’s Essential:

• Visually defines the theme

• Makes photo opportunities irresistible

• Sets a luxurious, opulent tone

Pro Tip:

Use feather centerpieces, sequined table runners, antique-looking candleholders, gold-rimmed plates, and ornate mirrors. Add string lights and fringe curtains for extra sparkle.

7. Cigarette Holder – Iconic and Irresistible

Tags: #cigaretteholder #vintageaccessories #1920sstyle #glamour #partyaccessories

Once considered the ultimate symbol of sophistication, the cigarette holder adds vintage drama to any flapper look (and makes for fantastic photo ops).

Why It’s Essential:

• Adds theatrical flair and elegance

• Fun for posing and dancing

• Matches perfectly with pearl necklaces and gloves

Pro Tip:

Skip the real cigarettes and use it as a stylish prop. For fun, place them in photo booth areas or offer them as party favors for guests.

8. Vintage Bar Sign – Guide Guests to the Good Stuff

Tags: #barsign #speakeasy #vintagedecor #partydecor #1920sparty

A clever vintage bar sign helps direct guests to your signature cocktails or speakeasy-inspired bar setup. Whether it's a custom neon sign or chalkboard menu, this is the final detail that ties your decor together.

Why It’s Essential:

• Reinforces your 1920s theme

• Adds a fun and functional element

• Acts as a stylish centerpiece for your drink station

Pro Tip:

Create a faux password sign ("Whisper the secret word to enter...") and make it part of the entrance experience for added immersion.

9. Fancy Glassware – Sip in Style

Tags: #glassware #elegance #party #1920sparty #cocktailshaker

Presentation matters—and your cocktail isn’t complete without elegant glassware to match. Think coupe glasses, champagne flutes, or vintage tumblers.

Why It’s Essential:

• Adds authenticity to your drink presentation

• Makes guests feel glamorous

• Matches the elegance of the decor and fashion

Pro Tip:

Use etched or gold-rimmed glasses. If you're short on vintage pieces, modern glassware with Art Deco patterns works just as well.

10. Boa or Shawl – Flapper Finishing Touch

Tags: #boa #shawl #partyaccessories #vintagefashion #1920s

Complete your flapper ensemble with a feather boa or beaded shawl. These accessories bring movement and drama to your outfit while keeping you warm if your party goes into the night.

Why It’s Essential:

• Adds a luxurious, tactile layer to your look

• Works for dancing, lounging, or dramatic entrances

• Enhances your costume’s authenticity

Pro Tip:

Pair a boa with your flapper dress and pearls for a look that screams Gatsby. For a subtler approach, drape a glittery shawl over your shoulders.

Bonus Tips for a Successful 1920s-Themed Party

🎷 Set the Scene at the Entrance

Greet guests with velvet ropes, a faux bouncer, and a "password required" sign to simulate entering a hidden speakeasy.

🍸 Offer Prohibition-Inspired Drinks

Mix both alcoholic and non-alcoholic mocktails. Use vintage punch bowls or decanters for added class.

📸 Create a Photo Booth

Set up a vintage backdrop with props like cigars, feather fans, bow ties, and monocles. Include #cigaretteholders, boas, and jazz-themed cutouts for that Instagrammable moment.

💃 Teach the Charleston

Hire a swing instructor or play a YouTube tutorial to get the dance floor moving with authentic 1920s flair.

🖤 Go Black and Gold

Stick to a cohesive color palette: black, gold, ivory, and metallics with touches of ruby or emerald add richness to your overall vibe.

Why the 1920s Make the Perfect Party Theme

The 1920s were a time of cultural revolution. Women gained more freedom, jazz redefined music, and underground parties became the norm. There’s something irresistible about channeling that rebellious, elegant energy into your modern event.

From the flapper dress to the jazz playlist, a well-planned 1920s-themed party gives your guests an escape from the ordinary—into a world of sequins, saxophones, and stylish sips.

Final Thoughts: Throw a Party Gatsby Would Envy

Bringing the 1920s back to life takes more than just dressing up—it’s about atmosphere, attitude, and attention to detail. With this checklist of the Top 10 Essentials, you’re not just hosting a party—you’re creating a moment in time.

So slip on those pearls, mix up a French 75, cue the jazz, and let the good times roar.

Cheers, old sport!

Tags Recap:

#flapperdress #1920s #vintagefashion #partywear #pearls #accessories
#glamour #headband #vintageaccessories #party #jazzmusic #partyvibes #music
#cocktailshaker #mixology #vintagedecor #partydecor #artdeco #cigaretteholder
#1920sstyle #barsign #1920sparty #decor #speakeasy #glassware #elegance
#boa #shawl #partyaccessories