Flapper Skirts Are In

The flapper style symbolized the newfound independence of women breaking free of restrictive clothing (and behavior) for the first time.Women were coming into their own as a result of the social changes brought about by World War I.Everything about flappers-their short hair, their loose, knee-baring dresses, their penchant for smoking and drinking in public, the jazz music they listened to, and the way they danced-was a rebellion against the notion of traditional, corseted femininity.

Now, nearly a century later, the look is making a comeback.With the high-profile success of movies and musicals featuring flappers, women of all ages are rediscovering how fun and figure-flattering the style can be.

For the younger set, a flapper skirt is a great way to show off beautiful bare legs.Try pairing a short black and white polka dot skirt with a white blouse, or a floral-patterned skirt with a long, flowing, silk top.While it's hard to imagine nowadays, the "bare-knee" look was once scandalous and cutting edge!

For working women or "ladies who lunch," the style can be made more conservative by selecting a slightly longer flapper skirt to be worn with sheer stockings.If you're feeling daring, try garter stockings with a seam down the back.Go from day to evening by changing your makeup, shoes, and accessories.It's easy to take this versatile look from a day at the office to a night out on the town.

Choosing the right shoes to go with your flapper skirt is fun.To make pretty legs look even longer and more slender, go with a higher-heeled style.Flappers often wore delicate sandals with pretty details like flowers, beading, and bows.If high heeled sandals aren't your speed, "Mary Jane" shoes will also look great with a flapper skirt.These shoes were quite popular during the 1920's and are easier to wear than strappy heels.They typically have a shorter, thicker heel and feature an ankle strap with a button.

If you don't like to wear even a short heel, flats can work with flapper skirts too, but be especially careful to choose a pair that flatter your ankles and feet and aren't too heavy-looking to be paired with a delicate skirt.A pair of embroidered slippers would be perfect.Try adding a delicate anklet to achieve a fancier look.

When it comes to makeup, jewelry and hair, be careful not to choose anything that will make your vintage look appear to be a costume.Understatement is the key.For example, don't wear long strands of beads or put a feathered band in your hair.Instead, choose subtle pieces that allow the focus to remain on your flapper skirt and your outfit as a whole, not your jewelry.Style hair in a way that is reminiscent, but not a direct copy of, the styles of the era.There's no need to wear spit curls!Loose, soft waves are a good match for this feminine look, as is a light up-do with some strands left free.Keep makeup rich but light, choosing deep tones that bring out the glamour of the 1920's. Nighttime makeup can be even more dramatic.