Gatsby Inspiration for Wedding or Party

20's icon Louise Brooks

FUN! Urban Unveiled at Vibiana

I have long been a fan of all things 1920's. If I had a choice, I would have loved to have lived in that era. There was so much to be excited about—the fabulous, groundbreaking fashion, stunning architecture and especially the spectacle and extravagance of those magnificent parties. It was a time of glitz and modernity, fresh, youthful confidence bordering on the brash and undeniable, shout-out-loud FUN. Happily, the Gatsby craze is currently at fever pitch, giving us all an opportunity to revisit the stylish glamor of those years. Brides and party hostesses have the option of taking the trend literally or simply taking inspiration from the period and making it their own.

Mirror, table and chairs by Rrivreworks

At California Wedding Day's Urban Unveiled bridal show at Vibiana, we did a little of both, setting up a gorgeous mint green tableau with vintage and modern elements. The color was a definite nod to the twenties and a fun play on this year's obsession with green, giving an unexpected pop to the GG! table.

Linen by Designer Specialty Linens, Flowers by Lilla Bello, Menu and graphics by Figmint Design, Furniture from Classic Party Rentals

I loved the contrast and detail here—our grand, architectural mirror, ladylike chairs with lovely fanciful carving, dressed with period-perfect Mr. and Mrs signage, the fabulous hand-sewn pearl  linen, the mix of elegant, old-fashioned glassware and the succulents and unusual leather menu adding a modern touch.

Chef Joanne's Gatsby inspired menu was a lovely toast to the roaring twenties!

Lobster deviled quail egg cucumber

Beef steak tartare canape

Smoked chicken artichoke parmesan shell

Glittering chocolate mint truffles

So, If you're looking to add some 20's flair to your event, consider the following:

THE DETAILS - delicate lace, beading, glitz and shine, feathers, the playful swing of fringe, sumptuous textures
THE FASHION- long and lean, yet comfortable silhouettes for the ladies, fun but classic plaids for the men, dramatic bejewelled headpieces

Looks from Urban Unveiled

Anne Hathaway's Valentino dress awash with pink and plenty of sparkle

THE COLORS - Gold, champagne and black, wine, bronze, light carnation pink, lavender, delft blue
THE LOOK - Architectural, geometric patterns, Deco inspiration for everything from cakes to fonts

THE DECOR - Champagne coupe glasses, beaded linens, florals with feathers
THE TASTES - Think elegant and updated classic. Anything they would have served at the Waldorf back then will do, but feel free to add a modern twist! Bloody Marys, shrimp cocktail, lamb medallions and plenty of champagne, of course!

Curry chicken salad in vintage champagne coupe

A lovely lamb

Potato caviar

Can't get enough of the 20's? We've created an ever-expanding Gatsby Pinterest board to give you even more inspiration.

Urban Unveiled photos by Duke Photography and Isabel Lawrence