Well-suited: The Great Gatsby

I have to admit that I was a bit leery about doing a “Well Suited” post based on The Great Gatsby. For one thing, I have only read portions of the novel. North American literature has never been my taste as I am more of a British lit gal*. Secondly, the latest version of the film has been so overdone I almost can’t stand it. Almost.

After viewing the 1974 version starring Robert Redford (swoon) and Mia Farrow, I was ready to see the Leo/Carey Mulligan version. In comparison, the costuming was more realistic in the 1974 but more wanderlust inducing in this year’s. Mulligan’s portrayal of Daisy made me feel more sympathy for her, while Farrow’s depiction made me annoyed. Of course, I thought that no one… no one could beat out Redford in the slightly obsessive role of Gatsby. I remember when the news broke that Leo was cast. my feelings were a solid mix of angst and excitement. I knew he would do the character, but worried that the obsessive tendencies would be taken overboard, leading to an overacted DiCaprio and disappointed fans.

Let’s just say, I was impressed. But we will move on and talk about what we are really here for: the clothes.

This little black number was thrifted around town a while back! It came with loops down the back for a lace-up but, like many things in the thrift world, was missing the lace. Just as well, though, because I took scissors to the loops to take it from tramp to vamp! The low back and beaded tassels make this oh-so-lovely for a 1920s themed party or night out! All I had to do was dig out my favorite vintage inspired pumps, a cheap headband from Target, and a vintage velvet coin bag.

To complete the look, I layered on dark lip stain for longevity. Stains also give a deeper color and won’t smudge throughout the night. And if you’re doing the Charleston as much as I was during this photo shoot… you’re going to need no smudge. A slight winged eye added a hint of fun to the face and made me bat my lashes a little bigger. Before I forget, this poison ring is my favorite conversation starter! The top opens, revealing a small space for a pill or two for the ladies in times gonte by to scheme whose drink in which to slip.

Not that I would ever do that today, but I like having the option.

Dress: thrifted, remade
Shoes: Naturalizer (old)
Purse: vintage
Ring: Time Warp Boutique
Headband: Target

*Humble brag: One of my proudest moments of undergrad was earning an “A” on a paper comparing the works of Lord Byron to Cher and Diana Ross.