What to Wear to a Gatsby Party

The Great Gatsby is a story about a man who throws the most spectacular parties in New York for people who barely know his name. There's something deliciously ironic about dressing up to celebrate that. 

There's also something entirely understandable about it: the 1920s aesthetic is one of the most glamorous fancy dress briefs going, and Australians have embraced it wholeheartedly.

This guide covers outfit ideas for women and men, accessory tips, and quick dos and don'ts to make sure the look lands.

Put the Great in Great Gatsby: What the Aesthetic Is All About

The Great Gatsby aesthetic is Art Deco glamour at full volume. 

For women, that means beaded drop-waist gowns, feathered headbands, long pearl ropes, and T-bar heels. For men, it's sharp pinstripe suits, high-waisted trousers, suspenders, spats, and a pocket square that means business. The palette runs from champagne gold and ivory to jet black and silver. 

Excess is the point. Restraint is not invited.

What to Wear to a Gatsby Party: Women's Outfit Ideas

All that glitters is gold at a Gatsby party, and the women's costume options prove it. The 1920s offered a wardrobe that had never existed before: short hemlines, bare arms, and outfits designed for dancing rather than decorum. 

The Classic Flapper

The flapper is the signature look of any great gatsby party. A dropped-waist dress in gold, black, or silver with fringe detailing that swings when you move, paired with a beaded headband and a long string of pearls. Bold lips, kohl-lined eyes, and a cigarette holder finish the picture. It is the look that defines the era, and it never fails at a gatsby themed party.

The Art Deco Socialite

Less fringe, more structure. The Art Deco socialite wears a sleek beaded gown in midnight black or deep emerald, with geometric jewellery inspired by the era's love of sharp lines and gilded edges. This is the great gatsby themed party look for those who want glamour without the shimmy.

The Jazz Club Performer

For anyone who wants to bring genuine showbiz energy to a gatsby party, the Jazz Club Performer is the answer. A sequined bodysuit or a fringed performance dress, fishnet stockings, character heels, and a feathered fascinator. Bold, theatrical, and impossible to ignore.

The Daisy Buchanan

Daisy's look is softer and more romantic than the typical flapper. A flowing white or pale blush gown, drop pearl earrings, white gloves, and hair set in soft waves beneath a delicate headband. It is the great gatsby party look that prioritises elegance over spectacle, and it photographs beautifully.

The Bootlegger's Moll

Darker and more dramatic. A deep red or black drop-waist dress, fishnet gloves, a feather boa draped over one shoulder, and stacked bangles. This character has seen things. She is having a wonderful time regardless.

Old Sport, You Look Divine: Men's Gatsby Party Outfit Ideas

The bee's knees of Gatsby looks are built on sharp tailoring, period accessories, and the kind of confidence that assumes everyone in the room is watching. Old sport would approve of every outfit on this list. 

The Great Gatsby: White Suit, Gold Accents

Gatsby himself is the natural reference point for a gatsby party, and the white suit with gold pocket square is the most recognisable male look of the era. Pair with a white shirt, a pale tie, two-tone shoes, and a confident expression. This is the outfit that owns the room.

The Sharp-Suited Socialite

A charcoal or navy pinstripe suit with high-waisted trousers, braces, a fedora, and two-tone Oxford shoes. Swap the tie for a bow tie to push the period feel further. A Roaring 20s striped blazer is a brilliant option for those who want a look that reads the era from across the garden.

The Bootlegger

Dark three-piece suit, flat cap pulled low, and a pocket watch chain. The bootlegger does not draw attention to himself, which is precisely what makes him memorable. A great gatsby party outfit for those who prefer understated menace to showy glamour.

Tom Buchanan: The Old Money Look

Tom's look is establishment rather than new money. A cream or white linen suit, a club tie, and an air of absolute entitlement. Blazer over an open-collared shirt works equally well for a more relaxed take on old money dressing.

Accessories Make the Old Sport: 1920s Party Styling Tips

The finishing touches are what seal the deal on any Gatsby costume. The right accessories can take a decent look and make it genuinely convincing. Start here.

Women: feathered headbands, long pearl ropes, drop earrings, beaded clutches, T-bar heels, and elbow-length gloves. A prop cigarette holder is one of the most effective finishing touches for a flapper or socialite look.

Men: fedoras, flat caps, suspenders, bow ties, spats, pocket squares, cufflinks, and two-tone shoes. A pocket watch chain adds instant period credibility.

Prioritise one or two statement pieces rather than piling on everything at once. The accessories are often what distinguishes a great gatsby party look from a good one.

Gatsby Party Outfit Dos and Don'ts

Do:

• Wear gold, black, silver, or ivory

• Layer jewellery generously. The 1920s were not subtle

• Choose period-appropriate shoes: T-bars, Oxfords, or spats

• Carry a prop: a cigarette holder, a beaded clutch, or a pocket watch

• Commit to the character, not just the costume

Don't:

• Arrive in modern prints or casual silhouettes

• Skip the accessories. They carry the whole look

• Wear overly casual footwear with a formal costume

• Choose colours outside the era's palette without a clear reason

• Go halfway. Gatsby rewards full commitment

Ready to Dress for the Party of the Century?

A great gatsby themed party is one of the most glamorous occasions on the fancy dress calendar, and the right costume makes all the difference. The full range of 1920s Gatsby looks for men and women is available at Costume Super Centre. Browse the complete Gatsby costumes collection, order early, and arrive in style. Old sport would expect nothing less.