A Chicago style party is a whole theatrical event! It is important that guests wear themed costumes so that they behave in an appropriate manner. In addition, you need to think over the design, menu, and decorate the party room with accessories that would be reminiscent of the era of the 30s. In general, preparing for such a party will require a lot of effort and expense. But the sensations will be worth the time and effort, because such events in life are not forgotten. In our article you will find several ideas on what suit to choose for a Chicago-style party, which accessories will best suit your look, and how to decorate the hall for the party. We have also prepared several thematic competitions and a party script for you.
Chicago style party photo
Children's area at the event
Consider a children's room at the event, as some guests may bring with them a little mafioso or a little artist. They should be comfortable in the children's room. To do this, put a TV in the children's room so that little guests can watch cartoons or install a console. As a last resort, you can get by with 2-3 tablets. Then the children will not be bored, they will be able to play games on a console or tablet all evening, or watch cartoons.
There’s no need to get too fancy when decorating a party for children. Better prepare good treats, buy pizza, cola, and the children will really appreciate it. Or better yet, a delicious cake. Then such an event will appeal not only to you, but also to the children. You will return home cheerful, with the whole family. This is cool!
Chicago style party decoration, ideas with photos
A Chicago style party is associated with black, red, dark blue, and gold colors. In addition, pictures of weapons, cards, boas, money and billiards emerge in my head. All this can be used to decorate the party room.
Option 1
Choose black tables and chairs and decorate them with bouquets of roses. The dishes should be of high quality - crystal clear glasses, polished forks and spoons, shiny plates. There must also be luxury alcohol on the tables. A separate room is a casino where you can play cards and poker.
Option 2
Choose black furniture, decorate chairs with red boas and men's hats. Lay red tablecloths on the tables and place tall vases with white feathers.
Option 3
The easiest and most budget-friendly way is to cover the tables with black tablecloths. Focus on them with raspberry-colored napkins, place candles and a bouquet of roses.
Option 4
Use utensils that are unusual in shape. It can be square. The table can be strewn with fresh red rose petals. Place napkins twisted in the shape of a rosebud into the glasses.
Option 5
You can decorate only one part of the room festively, this will also be a photo zone. To create it you will need checkered fabrics, red, white and black balloons, flags and a large banner with the name of your party and some kind of slogan.
Celebration organization
Regardless of whether you are celebrating the New Year in the style of gangster life, a birthday or any other holiday, you need to approach all elements with special care: this is the design, outfit, menu, script, etc.
You can take charge of the organization yourself or involve the professionals of PartyToday (https://partytoday.ru/). If you are ready to work independently, prepare an action plan:
- Drawing up a guest list, choosing a date and meeting place.
- Preparing and sending an invitation to the evening.
- Writing a script: competitions for a gangster party, games, music, songs, etc.
- Selection of costumes.
- Decoration of a hall or home.
- Menu creation.
Selecting a location
First of all, you need to make a guest list. The choice of location for the party depends on the number of guests. The 30s were the time of underground bars and casinos, and you can repeat the atmosphere in different conditions:
- Up to 6 people – a house or apartment will do.
- Guests up to 30 people - you can rent a country house or cottage, rent a hall in a restaurant or a loft.
- If you are inviting more than 30 people, it is better to rent a warehouse or hangar.
Organizing the desired interior at home is easier than in a rented room. When choosing a cafe or restaurant, choose a place that is as close in style to the desired era as possible. The most difficult thing is to select and decorate a room for a large number of people. However, this will be the most vivid party in the memory of most.
Invitations
An invitation to a gangster party should be sent out in advance so that friends know what to expect and when. Preparation takes time, and you need to give it to your guests.
It is better to design the invitation in the appropriate style. Indicate the place and time of the meeting, dress code, topic. It is worth mentioning the features of the era, since not everyone is familiar with it. The guest's name can be changed in a gangster style: instead of Victor - Vittorio, instead of Katya - Katie, etc. Ask guests to come up with nicknames in advance.
You can use standard postcard templates, but it is better to choose thematic ones. It could be:
- Vintage card.
- Newspaper article: Print out the front page with a photo of the guest or inviter and text underneath.
- Telegram: You can find a telegraph form template on the Internet and fill it out.
- Wanted Poster: Place a photo of the invitee in place of the criminal.
- Decorate the postcard with any gangster accessory: retro cars, weapons, cards, money, etc.
- Black and white invitations.
- Playing cards.
- Money.
Dress code
Gangster clothing style is elegance and luxury. However, Chicago is not only known for gangsters.
- For girls
For girls there is a single style of clothing, which is called Chicago style. You can depict:
- Gangster's girlfriend.
- Singer or dancer.
- Actress.
- The banker's wife.
Clothes for women - a dress with a rectangular silhouette is suitable. Length – knee-length or floor-length. You can, on the contrary, wear a dress with a tight-fitting silhouette, neckline and bare back. Materials – silk, satin, velvet. The colors are dark, calm: black, dark blue, burgundy, less often white or cream. Think about decor: rhinestones, fringe, sequins, lace, etc.
Accessories for a gangster party for girls are beads and strings of pearls, clutches, a cigarette holder, a fan, long gloves, boas, and fur stoles.
- For men
There are several suitable looks for men:
- Charming gangster: classic suits for men in calm colors, hat, patent leather shoes, tie. Accessories include a pocket watch, a rose in his buttonhole, a cigarette case, and a cane. Be sure to have a weapon with you.
- Beau monde: this is the image of a business person, banker, stock exchange worker. In general, the image is similar to a gangster, but the details are important: a silk scarf, a ring, a wad of dollars. You can have a weapon with you, but you shouldn’t demonstrate it.
- Journalist: trousers and shirt in neutral shades, suspenders or vest, tweed jacket, cap. Have a notepad with a pen and a camera with you.
- Jazzman: please note that jazz in the 1920-1930s was performed only by blacks, so the image will not work without makeup on the face and hands. If you are ready for this, then wear a snow-white suit for the evening and pointy boots. Don't forget your saxophone or guitar.
Hall decoration
The atmosphere can be realized if you pay attention to detail:
- Colors: black, white, brown, red.
- Vintage: candlesticks, vinyl records, lampshade.
- Thick curtains on the windows, twilight.
- Music for the evening - only jazz.
- Roses in vases, orchids, chrysanthemums.
- You can make posters advertising a cabaret with wanted people.
- Decor – feathers, beads, playing cards, weapons. Ideal - billiards, roulette or a table for playing cards. The photo zone is important.
Menu
1920-1930s – the era of the Great Depression. The menu should not be extensive and the food should not be heavy. In addition, food is not a priority for gangsters; they are for simplicity. The main focus should be on alcohol and snacks.
Since prohibition reigned, alcohol was disguised as tea, coffee and juices. Transfer the liquid into other bottles or label them with lemonade and juice labels. Replace glasses and glasses with cups.
Gangster drinks are whiskey and its varieties. Champagne, martinis and cocktails are suitable for the female half. For appetizers, prepare canapés, tartlets, and light sandwiches.
Carrying out
The gangster party scenario should be based on the phrase “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.” Organize gambling and give chips for winning, which can be exchanged for gifts. The competitions are active, based on movement, like a shootout.
Think about the little things. Let each guest take a nickname. It is better if pieces of paper with names are ready, and guests draw them out at random.
Competitions for a gangster meeting:
- Clan War: Divide into two “families” and have a competition. Who can name more films about gangsters, famous mafiosi, etc.
- Sharpie: first, guests hide the cards they received, and then look for the one that the host will show.
- Hide the cash register: guests hide as many bills as possible on themselves. A minute later, the “raid” begins and the one who hides the most wins.
- In jazz there are only girls: the girls are divided into two teams and make up two young men to look like girls.
A gangster party is an original and truly memorable event for adults. However, it requires lengthy preparation. When organizing, you need to take into account all the details in order to replicate the atmosphere of life of gangsters and bankers: appropriate outfits, themed competitions, a light menu and a lot of alcohol, decor. There will definitely not be anyone indifferent to such a meeting.
How to Dress for a Chicago Party
The most important point that gives the party the appropriate atmosphere is the images of the guests. We've put together a selection of costume photos for women and men that are perfect for a Chicago themed party.
women photos
men photos
Home furnishings for Cosa Nostra
American interior in the style of the 30s, frankly speaking, is unattainable in a hurry. You can’t redecorate a completely furnished room. Characteristic of that time were oak wall panels, solid solid furniture, and paintings hanging on the walls. But at the very least, you need to create a background for photos of the participants.
Particular attention should be paid to the design of tables and the serving of alcohol.
Forbidden drinks were sold in the 1930s in clandestine bars that were cleverly disguised. Or for a simple tea shop, or for a pharmacy, or for some kind of stationery store.
Upon entry and before serving a drink, a password was asked to avoid friction with the police. Orders could also be made in a conventional language.
Various posters can be printed. Roulette, card table, antiques, chips, cigarette holders - all this will help create the right atmosphere.
Gangster costume, DIY ideas with photos 5 options
Option 1
It’s enough just to take any suit (the main thing is that it is plain or striped). Under the jacket there should be a white shirt with a vest, bow ties, a felt hat and patent leather shoes. This is the perfect and very easy way to make a costume for a Chicago themed party.
Option 2
Choose pants, scarf and hat of the same color. It is advisable that the shoes go well with these wardrobe items. You can choose a brighter jacket; it will make the right accent in the image.
Option 3
An office suit option, but also perfect for a Chicago-themed party. Only in this outfit you need to shorten the trousers so that their length reaches the ankle. Otherwise, you can only be guided by your taste preferences in your wardrobe.
Option 4
This option is more suitable for men who want to feel not only stylish, but also comfortable at a party. A top without a shirt and jacket can also be realistic in this look, if you choose a long-sleeved T-shirt that matches the color of the trousers, and put on a vest on top.
Option 5
Great option with a coat. It is important here that the hat has a wide brim and slightly covers the man’s eyes. He will look simply stunning in this outfit.
Invitations
For such an unusual party, you need unusual invitations that fully correspond to the theme of the celebration. The inscription on the invitations could be something like this: You are invited to a private gangster party! The date is 10/10/10 at Johnny's bar. You will meet with Don Corleone , play in the casino, have fun over the edge.
Dress code for men: suit and hat; for women – a dress and a smile. It is advisable to design the invitation itself as intriguing as the text. You can print a newspaper in one spread, where the invitation will be located on the first page and highlighted in bold; you can order small postcards with images of gangsters or any attribute of a gangster party; invitations in the form of a pistol or machine gun would also be appropriate. Naturally, such invitations need to be sent out to guests in advance so that they have enough time to prepare.
Having received an invitation card to a gangster party, everyone will be delighted and believe me, there will definitely be no one who refuses to come.
Invitation templates
The East is a delicate matter, a party in the Eastern style will help you confirm these words!
Dress for a party in the style of Chicago 30s, DIY ideas with photos
Option 1
The simplest chiffon sundress can be an excellent option for a costume for a Chicago-style party. Instead, a blouse with puffed sleeves and a high-waisted knee-length skirt will do.
Option 2
If you have a short black sundress, then you can simply sew sequins on it, put on stockings, and make yourself long gloves from nylon tights. The neck can be decorated with fur detached from a winter coat.
Option 3
If you shorten the length of a simple summer sundress by sewing fringe onto it, you will get a very simple and easy way to make yourself a dress for a Chicago-style party. The sundress can be of any color, but it is better to choose among such a range - red, black, white, gold, gray.
Option 4
If you've already gotten married and have a dress left over, you can use it as a base for your Chicago-themed party suit. All you need to do with it is buy red gloves and a hat with a veil. By the way, many girls now choose just such an outfit for their wedding celebration.
Option 5
If you've had a long-sleeved fall dress gathering dust on your shelves for a long time, and you don't know where you can use it, then a Chicago-style party is the very reason to wear it. Just sew the ruffles to the hem and gather them on the side. You can complement this outfit with a hat and beads.
Suits
When preparing an outfit for a gangster party, you should look on the Internet and see what outfits people wore in those early years. Men were required to wear a suit and hat. To be without a hat was considered bad manners. The suit can be of any color, but preferable, of course, are classic shades - black, blue, gray. It must be a three, i.e. there should be a vest , in the pocket of which the men kept their watches. Suspenders, a tie or a bow tie are also required - this is a party. And what is a man without a cigar, so it’s worth buying one or two.
For women, there is a wider choice of outfits, but the only rule is low waist . Although, if you have a black classic dress without a low waist in your arsenal, you can simply dress it up with the right accessories, such as: stockings with an imitation seam at the back, a boa, a long string of pearls, a head decoration, it can be with stones, feathers or just a ribbon with sequins and, of course, fur.
Also in the thirties, it was fashionable to smoke a cigarette on a long cigarette holder, and even if you don’t smoke, such an accessory will add charm to your look. For makeup, you should focus on the eyes and lips: the eyes should be with shaded arrows, and the lips should be bright red or cherry, the hair should be curled with curling irons and beautiful waves should be made.
Do you want to feel like a macho or a hot beauty? Organize a party in Spanish style!
Accessories for a Chicago 1930s party, photo
Style Features
Gangster style or otherwise “Chicago” style, refers to the 20-30s. XX century and fashion of the American city of Chicago. Being a large industrial, commercial, business and rapidly developing territorial center, the city actively attracted representatives of the shadow economy - rich and influential “gangsters”.
Photos of girls in gangster style
Fabulous fortunes dictated the position in society - chic was required in the interiors of their own houses, vehicles and outfits. First of all, for yourself and your companion. The woman accompanying the gangster was certainly very expensively dressed, wearing furs, a dress made of the best fabrics, and flashy and spectacular jewelry.
All this flashy polish was valued only at secret night gangster meetings, in the light of day both men and women chose a calmer, decent image, otherwise the police could detain a citizen for his defiant appearance.
History of the dress
After World War I, society and fashion underwent major changes. Closed women's dresses were replaced by short, bare models with revealing necklines, short sleeves, high hems and an abundance of decorative trim, which was not available to women in wartime.
The hairstyle added piquancy to the exposed parts of the body - the women cut their hair into a bob and began to style it in waves. In addition, femininity went out of fashion and was replaced by masculinity, when the straight, flowing silhouettes of low-waisted dresses no longer emphasized the curves of the figure. The trend was thinness, a boyish physique and a complete denial of curvy figures.
As the post-war excitement died down a bit, clothing became more restrained. The style of women's dresses became more tight-fitting and complex (bias cut, cutouts and enhanced trim came into fashion). Modern “retro” images that designers borrow are closer to the 30s than to the decade before it.
Chicago Party Scenario
Contests for a gangster party
- " Nickname ". All guests write down their name for the party on paper, but do it so that no one sees. After this, the presenter collects all the notes and reads out the nicknames. Guests must guess who could have come up with such a nickname. Whoever guesses the person wins a prize.
- " Common fund ". Volunteers are selected. Each person is given a wad of money (not real money, of course). Their task is to quickly hide the money in their clothes so that no one realizes that any changes have occurred in their appearance. The most creative participant will win.
- " Sharpie ". The presenter invites several volunteers to take part in the competition. Each person is given a deck of cards. Participants must place all the cards in their pockets very carefully. After this, the presenter asks the participants to take only the “queen of spades” out of their pocket in one attempt. It will be difficult to do this, because it is unlikely that the participants remembered which card they hid and where. Anyone who fails must complete a penalty task.
- " Accurate shooter ". Participants are given a slingshot. They need to knock out the plastic cups on the table, each with a dollar inside and a sticker of a certain color on the invisible side. After the participant gets into the glass, the presenter asks him to bring 3 things from the hall of the same color that is attached to the glass. The winner will be the one who copes with this task better than his competitors.
- " Money down the drain ." Each participant is given a dollar. The task is to blow on the bill so that it flies the maximum distance. The winner is the one who can hold the dollar in the wind longer than the others.
Men's outfit for a Mafia themed party
- This is, of course, a business suit combined with a shirt and tie (if you don’t like ties, choose a bow tie). Ideally in black and white.
- On her feet are patent leather shoes with pointed toes.
- Smooth your hair with gel to create the effect of wet hair.
Well, some characteristic details:
- cigar;
- gold watch;
- cufflinks with stones;
- hat on the back of the head;
- gun.
Gangster Party Games
- " Associations ". The game is played during the meal. The presenter asks the tables to name one by one the names of films that are associated with Chicago and the 20s of the twentieth century in the USA. Winners can be awarded an additional bottle of champagne or other alcoholic drink.
- " Dancing ". Teams must first dance a tango to selected music, then a twist, a Marilyn Monroe dance and a cancan. The best dancing team will win.
- " Find Alcohol" . Opposite the competitor, several glasses with liquid of equal transparency are placed. Only one of them contains vodka. By the expression on the participant's face, the guests must guess what kind of drink he drank. The contestant's task is to try not to give himself away when it comes to vodka.
- " What bill ?" The participant is blindfolded, and then given a banknote, the denomination of which he needs to guess by smell, by sensation.
- " Wrap a gift ." This game involves couples whose hands are tied. They must quickly pack a box with a gift or simply decorate a bottle with their hands tied with a ribbon. The couple that can cope with the task best will win.
A gangster party is a vibrant event, so be sure to ensure that a photographer and cameraman are present.
Menu
Gangsters are one big “family” or clan. Therefore, a common table is desirable, at the head of which sits the don or donya (the hero or hero of the occasion). There are many treats and they are varied. But these are more snacks than food, because everyone gathered to taste prohibited alcohol, and not for gastronomic delights.
All kinds of salads, portioned meat and fish, canapés, baskets, seafood. Italian cuisine is appropriate - most gangsters moved to the USA from sunny Italy. Cakes, fruit, chocolate and ice cream for the ladies. To add atmosphere to a themed party, buy napkins with dollar signs on them and re-label the bottles: “Protective Elixir Against Stray Bullets,” “Grape Juice for Adults,” “Tincture of Wisdom.” Take before talking to a cop,” etc. As a tribute to tradition, pour alcohol into tea or coffee cups from a samovar or milk container.