Ah, the roaring 20’s. It was a time of prosperity, of indulgence, of “ritzy” living. This was the setting for “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It is not only a great novel, but a lifestyle inspiration.

Today, the movie The Great Gatsby is released and it’s inspired a resurgence of interest in everything 1920’s – the glitz, the glamour, the luxury and the extravagance. Furniture and home decor are no exception. And why not? The furniture style of the time was primarily Art-Deco – marked by clean lines, simplicity, geometrics and sharp angles. It’s a gorgeous style that is both contemporary and traditional all at once. It is classic – if you invest in Art Deco, you have an elegant look that will stand the test of time.

Hallmarks of “The Great Gatsby” Style

In the 1920’s, things that were impressive or great were often called “spiffy” or “swanky” or even “nifty” – and while those expressions have faded – the beauty of the era remains. For 1920’s Great Gatsby decor style, look for:

Mirrored, lacquered furniture. High gloss equals high style. The look says pure opulence. The lines are typically simple and uncomplicated with dramatic finishes.

Glass and metal. This was an era of excess, a time when everything sparkled. You can bring that to your home today with furniture that has touches of polished metal: gold, nickel, silver. Paired with glass, the look is even more stunning. Look for it in coffee and accent tables.

Geometry meets art. Geometric shapes like circles, triangles and squares were everywhere – you’ll see them again in upholstery, wall coverings and accessories – and also echoed in furniture: round chair backs, unusual angles and clean, straight table legs.

Crystal. Crystal is shimmer with substance…the look that says “you’ve arrived”. Be sure to add crystal vases, picture frames, dishes and candlesticks to your Great Gatsby home.

Accessories. Art-Deco art was “in” – and that means vivid, bright, bold art posters. Lighting was romantic and over-the-top. You need to remember one word: chandeliers. They are intrinsic to the Great Gatsby style. Fabrics are equally luxurious: satin, damask, cashmere.

Keep it light. Furniture of the 1920s was often light in finish – gorgeous off whites, vanillas, soft grays, caramel browns – nothing dark or harsh. The mood was upbeat and that’s reflected in furniture and decor that is serious and stately, but never drab or dull – always exciting.

Sofas and settees. Ladies in fabulous flapper outfits were the rage– and the sofas of the time were the perfect backdrop for them to entertain with elegance. You’ll see that style again with buttoned down yet plush upholstery, tufts, wonderfully pure lines and a more “proper”, structured appearance. Nothing slouchy about these sofas!

Quilting. As an added extravagance, some furniture pieces are quilted in part, often with metallic upholstery. It’s all part of the lavish look that says “plenty”.

Whether in furniture or accessories, everything should subtly indicate wealth. Nothing is spared and yet the look is never crowded. Look for crystal lamps, silk bedding, gold trim and statement pieces. Beds are sumptuous, tables are magnificent – you get the idea!

Tags: accessories, decor, Furniture, trends