I’d always been intimidated by the Art Deco Society’s Gatsby Picnic. It’s a costume-only event, and the society has a reputation for being historical sticklers. I’d heard they prefer authentic vintage garb and gear over mere reproduction clothing. As the 1920s had never been a particular favourite clothing era of mine, I figured I’d never go to the Gatsby.
But then… I got talked into it! The lovely friends I carpooled to Costume College ’05 with convinced me that it was a really fun event, not stuffy, no costume nazis, just a whole bunch of fun. They told of previous year’s debauchery, champagne overflowing, cabana boys serving the ladies, and all on the lawn of a beautiful historic mansion. Plus, I learned how easy it could be to fake a 1920s costume from the Ross to Roaring ’20s panel at Costume College.
The group I was going with had planned a big potluck, so I made a fruit salad in scooped-out watermelon bowls, plus ginger cookies, and packed a bottle of champagne in my basket. We had a great spot under a tree and near the band.
The setting was stunning — a gorgeous 1899 mansion, all the crowd in some sort of costume, from super-accurate to just blending in, picnic spreads of every fashion, and dozens of fabulous vintage cars. Wow! It was so relaxed, genteel, and fun that it really didn’t matter what I was wearing. I was just so happy to be in such a lovely place with so many charming people. Now I’m hooked. I have to go again!
