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The Jazz Age, the time between the end of World War I (1918) and the stock market crash of 1929, was noted for increased nationwide prosperity, liberated social and sexual behaviors, Prohibition and the accompanying production of bootleg liquor, speakeasies, and jazz.
Young carefree women drank liquor freely from decorative flasks and smoked cigarettes in public, dangling from jeweled cigarette holders, as they danced the Charleston and Blackbottom with wild abandon. Short skirts, plunging necklines and low backs on dresses put more of the female body parts on display than ever before. The female fashion silhouette presented a boyish figure and very loose fitting clothes.
Emancipation from traditional gender styles encouraged women to cut their long hair and free them from the complicated styles of the Edwardian Age.
The short “bob” hairstyle needed to be cut more regularly and a plethora of beauty parlors opened nationwide according to exhibit trustees and curators Helen Whalen and Grace Wohn.
Visitors will see various day and dinner dresses, coats and accessories worn and used by the women of the Pascack Valley during the short and exciting time in American history.
Admission is free, but donations are appreciated at the door. Children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.
The Pascack Historical Society is at 19 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge.
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