Art Deco Period
The Art Deco period launched itself into the world as a result of the ‘Exposition des Artes Decoratifs and Industries Modernes’ (EXPO) held in Paris in 1925. The period itself spanned the 20s and 30s. The French referred to this time as ‘Annees folles’ (crazy years).
It was a time of strong economic growth where people embraced new products and services such as radio, automobiles, aviation, oil, electricity, picture houses and JAZZ.
Fapper fashion was promoted by Coco Chanel, typified by a boyish look with short hair styles and loose streamlined garments. A new social freedom for women was being unleashed. In 1926 Chanel also introduced the ‘little black dress’.
Decor was designed to be sleek and smooth featuring bold colours and geometric shapes. This period of time was shaped by events such as the sinking of the Titanic (1912), the discovery of Tutankhamun’s Tomb and the completion of the Empire State Building (1931).
Stars such as Maurice Chevaleir, Sarah Bernhardt, Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers and Louis Armstrong were popular. Many artisans such as Rene Lalique and architect Frank Lloyd Wright were creatively active during these years.
The fads of these times included dancing the ‘Charleston’, cloche hats, bright red lipstick and Betty Boop.
A truly crazy and magnificent time to be alive!
