Step Back in Time: Exploring the Roaring Twenties at Highclere Castle

Step Back in Time: Exploring the Roaring Twenties at Highclere Castle

Roaring Twenties events like the Art Deco Festival in Napier, the Jazz Age Lawn Party at Governor’s Island in New York, and the Highclere Castle Festival in Hampshire offer a captivating blend of history, fashion, entertainment, and nostalgia. As people seek unique and memorable experiences, these vintage-themed gatherings provide a chance to step into the enchanting world of the 1920s, celebrating its timeless allure and leaving participants with cherished memories of a bygone era.

In this blog we explore the roaring twenties at Highclere Castle, a magnificent estate nestled in the picturesque countryside of Hampshire, England, and well-known for the filming of Downton Abbey. Transporting visitors to the golden era of the 1920s, the Highclere Castle hosts a series of enchanting events that showcase the elegance and allure of vintage fashion. From Vintage Garden parties to the magical “Movies at the Castle” and the Highclere Castle Festival, women attending these events embrace the opportunity to channel the spirit of the Roaring Twenties through their attire and activities.

With friends (and champagne) at Downton Abbey's Highclere Castle

Stepping onto the manicured lawns of Highclere Castle during a Vintage Garden party is like entering a time capsule. Women, donning exquisite flapper dresses, create an enchanting scene reminiscent of the glamorous parties from F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel, "The Great Gatsby." These knee-length dresses, often featuring intricate beadwork, sequins, and fringe, capture the essence of the 1920s, exuding elegance and sophistication.

Cloche hats, a signature accessory of the era, perfectly complement the flapper dresses, framing the face with an air of mystery. The garden party attendees embrace a color palette of soft pastels, muted tones, and bold jewel hues, all reflecting the fashion choices of the Roaring Twenties.

Enjoying at a Highclere Castle Roaring Twenties event in La Vie Delight dresses

As live jazz music fills the air, women dance gracefully on the manicured lawns, their dresses swaying with every step. Vintage parasols and beaded clutch bags add a touch of whimsy to the ensemble, creating a picture-perfect scene of vintage charm. 

The Highclere Castle Festival is the epitome of elegance and cultural celebration. As attendees gather to celebrate the arts and music, women dress in their finest vintage attire, embracing the glamorous flapper fashion. The prestigious event attracts renowned artists and musicians, showcasing their talents in the opulent setting of the castle’s Great Hall.

The event also hosts a vintage cars exhibition, offering visitors a glimpse into the automotive splendor of the past. Women attending the exhibition often embrace the retro elegance of the 1920s with modern-day interpretations of vintage fashion. The backdrop of the exhibition becomes a visual feast of classic cars and equally timeless fashion, transporting guests back to a time when automotive innovation was synonymous with style and opulence.

Attendees can indulge in a range of culinary experiences, from delectable afternoon teas served in the castle’s opulent drawing rooms to gourmet dining experiences on the castle grounds. Highclere Castle embraces the spirit of the aristocratic dining traditions of yesteryears while also offering contemporary gastronomic delights.

In short, Highclere Castle provides a captivating journey into the Roaring Twenties, where women attending the vintage garden parties and festivals embrace the timeless elegance of vintage fashion. Cloche hats, flapper dresses, and art deco accessories channel the spirit of the era, creating an ambiance of sophistication and allure. The vintage cars exhibition further enhances the experience, offering a delightful fusion of nostalgia and automotive history. As visitors explore the opulent grounds of Highclere Castle, they become a part of a living tapestry of elegance, celebrating the enduring legacy of the 1920s in all its timeless glory.

The HighClere Castle events for the 2nd half of 2023 can be found here, with the Magic of the Movie weekend on September 9&10, and the history weekend of the High Castle Festival on October 7&8. Great opportunities to sparkle in your dazzling Roaring Twenties clothing and to embrace the essence of the Roaring Twenties with every step you take.

Blog written by La Vie Delight Roaring Twenties fashion.