Inspirations for a Great Gatsby-Themed Wedding

Photo: Copyright 2012 Trinidad Weddings

“The Great Gatsby” – a book penned by author, F. Scott Fitzgerald in 1925, is once again out in a movie version, with its world premier on May 10,  2013.

Previous movie versions were done in 1926, 1949 and 1974. The book has been regarded as  one of the most popular American novels of all time.

It has also been called a landmark novel for the iconic 1920’s era – which was characterized by immense economic boom, parties and all-out decadence.

Bridal fashionistas everywhere are going to be inspired by the sheer glamour that the 1920’s continues to evoke, even up to today.

 

Here are some ideas if you want to have a retro,1920’s wedding:

Gown  and Accessories– the 1920’s were all about creating a long and lean silhouette on women, so dropped waist dresses were in style. You can also opt for dresses with illusion (sheer) necklines, many layers of fringe, tiers, pleats or heavy beading.

Accessories can include: jeweled sashes, beaded clutches, Mary-Jane and T-strapped styled shoes, layers of pearls, bridal headbands or fascinators, bands worn across the forehead, cloche (close-fitting) hats and any accessories featuring: ostrich feathers, glitter, sequins and crystals.

Groomswear – Single-breasted, neutral-coloured suits would suit Gatsby-inspired grooms well; as would, bow ties and ties, fedora hats, waistcoats and spectator shoes. Pin-striped suits were also popular for men during the 1920’s.

Bar choices – If you’re going with this theme, your bar is going to be one of the main focal points. This is because the 1920’s were also known as the time of Prohibition in the USA - when alcohol was banned nation-wide. What cropped up, were “speakeasies,” – establishments that sold liquor illegally. In the book, the “mint julep” is Jay Gatsby's famous drink of choice. Other good beverage options that would work well with this theme would be champagne and gin-based cocktails.

Cakes and décor design – Gatsby-inspired weddings will feature the Art Deco design style, which encompasses  bold, geometric shapes and lines (which were often repetitive.) Designs such as: the sunburst pattern and chevron (a zig-zag repetitive pattern) were also trendy during the 1920’s.  Gold, black and white are colours that would suit a Gatsby-inspired wedding well.

Music - Fitzgerald coined the term the “Jazz Age” for the 1920’s, so of course, having some light jazz played will be sure to enhance your theme.  Live performers were also popular

during the 1920’s; for a modern day option you could have a saxophonist or a small band.

 

FOR MORE GREAT GATSBY INSPIRATION, VISIT OUR BOARD ON PINTEREST:  
http://pinterest.com/trinidadwedding/great-gatsby-inspired/

 

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Mint Julep Cocktail
1. Fill a tall glass or silver tumbler with crushed ice
2. Put 2 sprigs of fresh mint in another glass
3. Add 1/4 oz. of water
4. Add 1 tsp. sugar
5. Muddle ingredients well
6. Add 3 oz. of bourbon
7. Stir gently, but thoroughly
8. Strain into glass with crushed ice
9. Garnish with fresh sprigs of mint

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