Hello everyone,

I’ve already reported extensively on the history of nylons, and today we’re going back a few more years. I’m absolutely thrilled to introduce you to the wonderful and, above all, authentic events of Bohème Sauvage. An established 1920s party, with no “ifs, ands, or buts,” because here it’s “All or Nothing”!

Bohème Sauvage

You’re probably wondering what kind of event Bohème Sauvage is exactly and what makes it so special… for that, I’ll quote a short passage from their website, which you can access HERE. As you’ll notice yourselves, nothing on the site is left to chance; it’s a beautifully designed page that truly manages to create a 1920s website style. According to the quote, Bohème Sauvage is:

“not just any party. It is a lavish celebration in honor of the heroes of nights past, remembered by the heroes of today. Among the friends and patrons of the Society for Sophisticated Entertainment are all those who know no tomorrow and who celebrate every night as if it were their last. For all those for whom no drink is too many and no dress too chic. Because less is never more, and too much is far from enough.”

The dress code for these evenings is not a recommendation; only those who dress authentically will be granted entry. Rightly so, I think. Everyone is welcome, whether to dance, drink, play poker, or simply to experience the flair of the 20s or dress accordingly. The events are designed so that the ambiance, clothing, and behavior correspond to the 1920s. From dances like Charleston, Swing, Tango, and Waltz, to an absinthe bar, a casino, and even “loose women,” everything has been considered. There are varied programs, burlesque dancers, or dance classes for guests to participate in, and so on and so forth…

Things to Consider

Of course, you should put away your modern technical devices and anything else that didn’t exist at the time, or better yet, leave everything at home. This is also about not destroying the illusion, not for yourself and certainly not for other guests.

What also didn’t exist, of course, were nylons; silk stockings were worn… so be careful! Although I don’t think the checks go that far, so a beautiful nylon should probably be fine.

Public parties under the title Bohème Sauvage have been taking place since 2006; you can now visit them in Cologne, Hamburg, Berlin, Vienna, and Zurich. In November, a party was held in Cologne; the next date is at the end of December in Berlin. You can find the schedule and/or newsletter, the so-called ‘Rohrpost’ (which I think is great), HERE.

1920s Clothing

But what did people look like in the 1920s?

For the Ladies:

Long, loose hair was not fashionable, so either put it up, curl it, wear short hairstyles, or whatever else comes to mind—probably the bob cut, but that’s not for everyone.

Hats were also popular among women back then, as were a nicely wrapped scarf, feathers, ribbons, clips… too much fuss on the head was simply not possible.

The stiff corset was discarded, and “lingerie” emerged. Two-piece sets were bought that were not only comfortable to wear but also looked pretty, with lace and silk, and finally with color. A waist cincher like Black Rose, for example, fits perfectly under a dress.

Since androgyny was “in” at the time, dresses were not form-fitting and differed more by pattern and color than by shape. Many women tried to hide their feminine curves with girdles. But legs were finally openly displayed. Towards the end of the 20s, ankle-length dresses came into fashion.

Coco Chanel, of course, is emblematic of this era.

For the Gentlemen:

Hat, coat, gloves, knickerbockers, and wide patterned ties, along with a walking stick and mustache. Of course, let’s not forget the famous Stresemann: named after Foreign Minister Gustav Stresemann, an ensemble that was only worn in the mornings for special occasions. The ensemble consists of black-and-grey striped trousers and a black jacket, with a light grey waistcoat and tie, plus a white shirt and black shoes.

Found on Http://Magazin.Traumhochzeit.Com/Der_Stresemann

My Experience with Bohème Sauvage

A few years ago, I myself attended a Bohème Sauvage event in Cologne with two friends, and we were thrilled. No question, days before, the search for outfits began, thinking about makeup, hair, and everything else one needs to consider to authentically experience the 1920s. The party was great, nothing I had ever experienced before. I particularly enjoyed the group dancing; two cheerful couples tried to teach a horde of eager dancers the basic steps of the Charleston, which is indeed a challenge for modern dance feet, or perhaps it was just me that couldn’t get it right.

I cannot end this blog post other than with an urgent recommendation:

Contact friends, set a date, buy tickets for Bohème Sauvage, and start perfecting your outfit! I hope you enjoyed this little excursion into the 20s.

See you soon

yours Julia