Revival of the Roaring '20s
The air fills with sweet symphonies of jazz, mindless laughter, flowing champagne, and rebellious thoughts at the speakeasies. People come together through art and self-expression, forming a united front against societal constraints.
Josephine Baker showcasing her Kiss curls. General Photographic Agency/Getty Images via Vogue
In many ways, we are experiencing echoes of the Roaring '20s in our current society. While the world feels like it's burning, some seem to forget, reflected in all parts of our lives—art, fashion, interior design, and even public events. The colors, music, and patterns of that era are making a grand comeback, steering us away from the ‘millennial grey’ minimalism towards more maximalist ventures, visible down to the fingertips of those who move through public spaces differently.
Public spaces play a uniquely important role in our current historical moment. While the internet, social media, and technology have pulled us towards virtual spaces like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, there’s a growing pushback towards physical spaces that draw inspiration from the past. Speakeasies, for instance, have seen a resurgence as the youth—and anyone with an open mind—flock to these venues in search of connection and understanding. Liberal ideas spread across these free public spaces, where individuals can share their deepest thoughts and be met with admiration and curiosity. This fascination with society is multifaceted, drawing people in with open minds, appreciation, or even skepticism. It’s an appreciation for life's finer things—martinis, champagne—all flowing to the sweet tunes of jazz. There is also a notable resurgence of statement jewelry like pearls and bold earrings reminiscent of the Roaring '20s. There's a growing awareness and a thirst to look beyond ourselves at the world around us. We're not only seeing a revival of similar public spaces like speakeasies, but also a resurgence of art forms from that era. Jazz, a defining feature of the Roaring '20s, is making a significant comeback across generations. People don elegant outfits and statement jewelry to seek out jazz bars, craving something more intriguing than the loud club scene.
This nightlife contrasts sharply with the corruption around us, and so does the art. The ode to the Roaring '20s is especially evident in today's art, where we embrace maximalism and art deco influences. This trend touches all areas of art, especially interior design, where the minimalist millennial grey is being replaced by eclectic maximalism. We're yearning for personality and self-expression that reflects who we are. Artists like Jonathan Adler focus on modern American glamour with vibrant, bold styles, including geometric patterns reminiscent of Art Deco. His work, particularly in home and furniture design, brings playful, minimalist dreams to life. Similarly, Mickalene Thomas's art is heavily maximalist, richly decorated, and layered with vibrant colors and patterns. These artists, among many others, are leading the charge in embracing vibrant maximalist styles, from furniture to canvas and beyond.
So, how does this all make sense? We are embracing a lifestyle inspired by the Roaring '20s—luxurious, carefree—yet we are weighed down by a constant sense of something being off. Corruption and turmoil linger in the background, reflected in our actions, yet we continue to embrace jewels, self-expression, art, and a vibrant lifestyle. How have we so readily embraced the boom lifestyle when we aren't anywhere near an economic boom? With the financial market in disarray, inflation, corruption, and conflict are part of our daily lives. Yet, we sip champagne, eat oysters, and savor the sweetness. Are we indulging in blissful ignorance, a lack of acceptance, or simply trying to fake the good life? Whatever the case, the soothing touch of jazz lulls us into a dreamlike state as the party continues.
