The term “flapper” is thought to originate from an English expression for a teenage girl whose plaited hair “flapped” as she moved.

The flapper became emblematic of the 1920s, known for energetic dances such as the Charleston and for challenging traditional social expectations.

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Our 1926 Flapper model wears a black dress with scoop neckline, overlayed with cream machine-embroidered lace pattern on black net. This dress is typical of its time. There is an invitation to our lady and friends to a dance at the Crown Hotel, Diss on Easter Monday. She also wears a feathered hair piece secured by a contemporary hat pin and holds a black silk evening bag.   

The First World War changed society by giving many women new independence while men were away fighting. Women worked, earned their own money, and gained greater freedom, which influenced the bold “flapper” style—shorter skirts, bobbed hair, makeup, and more public socialising.

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After the war, political progress followed with voting rights extended to all men over 21 and women over 30 in 1918.

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Cars and a post-war economic boom also increased women’s mobility and leisure activities, leading to more practical clothing styles.

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Although older generations criticised flapper fashion, it symbolised a move toward modernity, independence, and self-expression.

1926 Flapper