The dress was made at home. Back then, dress cuts were simple; fashion was easily DIYed, and accessible to the middle and working classes. My hem work was hokey, but the garment stayed together for the night and I brought home a compliment or two.
The shoes were old faithfuls. Mary Jane heels would have been a closer style match, and sometimes you'll find them at op shops, but rarely for size 5 feet. Try your luck if you're a size 7 and above.
The stockings were plain black pull-up lace-tops, bought for a party years ago and packed in a sock box since.
The jewellery was a multi-strand black seed bead rope with a knot, found at Good Sammy's. A string of pearls would have given a nice contrast, but the dress fabric was so busy with texture, I didn't mind going minimal on accessories.
The hair was a symphony of finger waves and pin curls, deftly crafted by Abbey and Libby at Rebecca Oates. All it cost was the complimentary voucher from my last haircut. It was a lucky coincidence for me, but a great lesson in timing.
If your salon gives you treats after a visit, schedule your normal appointment within a week of the party, then cash in those treats on the day. Otherwise, ask what styling they can do on a wash & blowdry service.
I also learned that finger waves and pin curls are among the first things a stylist learns in hair school. When it comes to salons who charge based on a stylist's seniority, you may get awesome enough hair value from a junior or middleweight.
The makeup was... passable. I'm not skilled here, but you get away with so much in the dark! I used a BB cream, brow pencil, lip liner and lip balm, already owned. Purchased new were a Maybelline Master Smoky (not masterful) and a Great Lash mascara (pretty great).
Which brings us to a grand total of $67 for a whole 1920s outfit. w00t!
I won't lie - this takes effort. I consider this too much effort for just a party, but as DIY experience and skills training, it was worth having a learning opportunity that integrates with normal life.
Get to know the theme, as there's probably something easy you can get away with.
Think this way: reuse > make > buy secondhand > buy new.
Learn to sew - it opens up a world of options.
Hit op shops where you can, but remember vintage fashion is in - serious shoppers, fashionistas and vintage boutiques are likely to have found the really good stuff already.
Get clever with time planning, free gifts, and vouchers.