Vintage Accessories thoughout the decades

When talking of vintage style and fashion we must remember that’s not all about the clothes. It’s also the all important accessories that support, accentuate and sometimes even make the outfit. Angel Middleton has explored the key vintage accessories that helped define style throughout the decades.

The Twenties was the decade of the flapper and the era of a luxuriant and extravagant look for a new and empowered woman who could drink, smoke and vote. Costume jewellery, long strands of pearls, made popular by Coco Chanel, beaded headdresses and headbands in the evening to adorn the shorter hairstyles favoured by the flappers as well as cloche hats were adopted for a chic style.

Egyptian jewellery became fashionable with the discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb in 1922, so scarab beetles, the eye of Horus and other Egyptian symbols were in style.

In the Thirties, fashion took the lead from the previous decade however there was more emphasis on coordination and a more feminine form. Matching ensembles of hat, glove, bag and shoes ensembles were introduced, often in striking colours.

Jewellery had an art deco feel and brooches were becoming increasingly popular. Gloves were a vital fashion item with an option for every potential situation, with short styles in fabric or leather for daytime and long elbow length ‘opera’ gloves for a refined evening look.

Headwear was still important with hats decorated with veiling and snoods making an impact.

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