A beaded gown is a good foundation for many costumes.
A beaded dress is a versatile wardrobe piece that lends itself naturally to many costume eras. You can dress it up or down to fit in to several different and unique roles. Whether you want to visit the 1920s flapper era, be a Vegas showgirl or be a glamorous movie star for an evening, a beaded gown has no shortage of looks.
1920s Hollywood
The 1920s evoke an image of flappers and art deco design. For this era, consider a knee-length or calf-length straight gown dripping with intricate beadwork. Spaghetti straps or a sleeveless gown with a v-neck will give you the most authentic look. Accessorize with Mary Jane shoes with an ankle strap, bright red lipstick, short bobbed hair or a wig and a decorative headband.
Vegas Showgirl
If you want the look of a Vegas showgirl with more modest coverage than some costumes allow, pair a beaded gown with a large feathered headdress. For an over-the-top look, consider a feathered fantail dripping with crystals. This can be worn over your dress and, when paired with a headdress, will make your costume stand out. Feather boas, stick-on sparkly face jewels, sparkly gloves, long false eyelashes and heavy makeup will complete this showgirl look.
Movie Star
Revisit old Hollywood glamour by donning a beaded gown for the evening and dressing it up with vintage accessories, makeup, and hairstyles. Select a gown simple in its lines without ruffles, puffy sleeves, busy necklines or overly large skirts. Because the beading of your dress should be the star, opt for a sleek dress with a straight or a-line skirt. Spaghetti straps, strapless or sleeveless are the most indicative of this era. Accentuate with simple, uncomplicated hair in a classic chignon or simple pin-curl waves. Keep face makeup pale and uncomplicated with bright lips, long, elegant eyelashes, and a touch of blusher.
Jessica Rabbit
Jessica Rabbit from "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?" is famously depicted in a long, slinky red dress. You can emulate her look with a long beaded red gown of your own, preferably with a long slit up one leg. Purchase a red wig that falls at least halfway down the back and softly curl the ends to get the Jessica Rabbit look. Bright red lips and soft blue eye makeup, bright blue long gloves, and shiny red high-heeled shoes finish the Jessica Rabbit look.
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