Gatsby homecoming in fashion

By Adelaide Breier

Features/Entertainment reporter

The Homecoming dance took place at Crete-Monee High School at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4. This year’s theme was “The Great Gatsby,” with students coming in with prepared outfits that match the 1920s-inspired vibe and that match the look.

"I'm planning on a wine-red dress with pearls and black gloves," said freshman Nikayla Collins. "My backup is a black dress with fringe textures," she said.

The ideal Gatsby look features a dark or neutral color palette—beige, dark red, white, navy blue, gold, cream, and black colors.

"My suit is black with a red pattern down the side," freshman Brian Mercedes said. "It was between that or a dark navy velvet suit, but I chose the black one."

Textures play a key role in Gatsby fashion. Think sequins, velvet, fringe, sparkle patterns, lace, and even feathers, as well as simple, well-fitted designs that complement the person behind the outfit.

"I want a dark blue dress, but it might not fit the theme," said Leila Thoresen. "My backup is a black or red dress with lots of texture."

Not everyone was excited about the theme, though. Opinions vary widely. It really depends on the person people talked to and what their particular sense of style was.

"I'm not a huge fan of it," Nikayla Collins said. "It really limits what you can wear. The color palette is so strict and really limits your options, which I'm not a huge fan of. If I picked, I’d go with ‘Nightlife Attire’—it’s still formal but offers more options and colors to choose from." Nikayla Collins stated.

Gatsby fashion for women typically includes flapper dresses with dropped waistlines, knee-length hems, and plenty of embellishments like sequins and fringe. Accessories such as headpieces, feathers, and gloves are also key. Men’s Gatsby looks usually feature tailored suits with suspenders, pocket watches, and polished shoes.

"I don’t know if I like the theme or not," said Leila Thoresen. "It's hard to find things for it, and I bet half the students don’t even know what ‘Great Gatsby’ means. If I had to pick, I would choose ‘Once Upon a Time.’ It's elegant but gives you more flexibility with what to wear."

In the end, most students just tried to find something that fit and felt right. Regardless of the theme, everyone hoped to enjoy their time during Homecoming weekend.