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How to Dress Gatsby 1920s and '30s Style

[whitespace] fashion show & lecture

For Men

Two-tone shoes (known as spectator shoes), bucks or wing tips are most preferred

Wear linen suits, striped shirts and high-waisted trousers

Necktie or bow tie is essential. Never use clip-on bow ties

Suspenders. Never show your suspenders; they are considered underwear

Socks go underneath knickers

Striped jackets should only be worn to a boat race

A boutonniere is worn on the left side of the jacket

Men in green suits are the least to be trusted

Panama, golf, derby or boater hats are best

Dinner jackets or smoking jackets with high-waisted trousers and a black tie are for evening wear only

Hair is worn gelled back and parted in the middle

For Women

Never wear a boa

Cover forehead with a cloche or brim hat

Wear stockings with a seam up the back. No fishnets

Wear chiffon, crepe or lace dresses with a drop-waist or tiered hem

Hair is worn close to the head in finger waves or a bob

Shoes with a flared heel on the bottom, and T-straps or a bow, are most preferred

Fabrics with small, pastel, soft and swirly prints are best

Parasols are a must

Where to Go

Departures From the Past, 415/885-3377

Guy and Doll, 415/285-7174

Martini Mercantile, 415/552-1940

Paul's Hatworks, 415/221-5332

The Third Hand Store, 415/567-7332

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From the September 21-October 4, 1998 issue of the Metropolitan.

Copyright © Metro Publishing Inc. Maintained by Boulevards New Media.