1920s Teal Cocktail Dress

I recently attended a Roaring '20s party at a local historic mansion. This was the fourth party of this type that I have attended there--and they are always amazing! EVERYONE comes in costume. It's refreshing to look across the dance floor and see nothing but early 20th century fashions. I generally choose a draped (slightly more '30s) style black gown to these events, but wanted something flashier this year. As luck would have it, I found a $5 teal, satin cocktail dress at a local thrift store. I was in love with the low back and draping, and knew it would work!

It took me a long while to figure out what I wanted to alter to make it more Gatsby style. I liked the plunging neckline, so my first addition was some delicate teal lace across the front. Still showed a good hint of skin, but looked classier.

The draped back was dramatic, but it kept wanting to slip off of my shoulders. I figured if I'd be dancing and doing the Charleston, I couldn't risk the straps falling down (and no bra!). So, I added the sequined ribbon across the back to keep things in place.

I was so in love with that teal lace that I did an overlay over the whole thing. Next, in the bottom of a box I found a massive rhinestone applique that came off of a friend's wedding dress. I liked its irregular shape and sparkle.

This dress had a high waist, which was not the look I was going for---longing for the dropped-waist of the desired era. To lower the look of the waist, I made sure the rhinestone applique was added low on the belly, and added two drapes of fringe to accentuate the hips. And, ta da! A relatively easy adjustment to a modern dress.

I waved my hair and added feathers and a band of rhinestones. Feet were simple this round with basic T-strap black pumps. Added jewelry and a red lip and I was good to go!