Flappers

The 1920s in the United States was a time of social change.  This was especially true for women.  During World War I women moved into the workforce throughout the country.  By the time the war ended, women had moved into higher paying roles.  This development, along with the 19^th amendment, which gave women the right to vote, helped to spur a movement that would bring them closer to equality with men.  One of the more interesting developments among women at this time was the flapper – a young woman who wore a short dress, with bobbed or short hair, “cloche” hats, heavy make-up, and smoked and drank in public.  For more information on the history of the flapper check out this article: 46d. Flappers.

This video provides a good idea of the spunk flappers brought to the 1920s:

Flappers were only a small portion of the American women in the 1920s.  However, their impact heavily influenced both fashion and behavior, not only in that decade, but for years to come.  This article, Flapper Fashion -1920s Fashion History, breaks down the history of flapper fashion.