- Though each era gave us a specific type of fashion, the 1960s was arguably the very best decade for style.
- The 1960s was known for its cultural movements and expanding youth population, both of which were reflected in the fashion of the time.
- Trendy pieces included waist-high pants, elegant hats, and fitted skirts.
The 1960s saw cultural shifts in a multitude of ways, including through notable fashion trends. Clothing of the time was defined by bold experimentation, advancing cultural perspectives, and unforgettable style moments. The decade truly embraced self-expression, from the sophisticated elegance of early-60s silhouettes to the loud, boundary-pushing looks of the late 60s. Style was heavily influenced by iconic cultural figures, social movements, and a growing youth culture. Fashion in the 1960s became more than just clothing; it became a statement.
The trends of the decade were memorable, whether for their eye-catching patterns, innovative materials, or tailored silhouettes. The 1960s struck a rare balance between classic and cutting-edge, and the wardrobes of the time continue to inspire designers today. Here are 10 fabulous trends that reveal why many consider the 1960s to be the best era for fashion.
Eccentric Hats
When females dress up today, they rarely reach for a hat. But this was not the case in the 1960s. Hats were an essential accessory in early 1960s fashion, often worn with a dress for a special occasion. Many styles featured structured shapes, unique designs, and bold details. Influential fashionable figures like Jackie Kennedy helped popularize elegant hats like the pillbox style.
High-Waisted Pants With Shirts Tucked In
High-waisted pants were a staple of 1960s fashion, helping to create a structured, put together silhouette. Women often paired them with neatly tucked-in blouses and flats (or kitten heels) for a polished look. This style emphasized a small waist while maintaining a sense of modesty. Today, the trend has made a comeback, though it’s often styled in more casual ways.
Pencil Skirts
Pencil skirts were a defining piece of women’s fashion in the 1960s, especially in professional or office settings. They featured a slim, tailored fit that accentuated the body in a feminine way without being revealing. Typically worn slightly longer than modern versions, they offered a conservative yet elegant appearance. Paired with blouses or fitted jackets, pencil skirts were part of a refined look.
Bold Colors
Bold and vibrant colors became increasingly popular throughout the 1960s, especially during the later years of the decade. Many articles of clothing were downright ‘loud’, featuring bright hues like orange, yellow, and electric blue. They were often combined in contrasting ways. This shift reflected the playful influence of youth culture and artistic expression. Wearing bright colors became a way for individuals to stand out and announce their personality to a changing world.
Trench Coats Paired With Hats
Trench coats have been a timeless outerwear choice for decades, and they certainly were in the 1960s. They were often worn alongside our first entry: a stylish hat of some kind. This combination was especially popular in cooler weather and urban settings. Though hats are mostly out of style in today’s world, trench coats remain a classic wardrobe staple that continues to evolve with modern fashion.
Pins and Buttons
Pins and buttons became a popular form of self-expression during the 1960s, a time when major cultural shifts were occurring, from the civil rights movement to the Vietnam War. People used buttons to display political views, support social movements, or showcase personal interests. Wearing pins allowed individuals to make highly specific, bold statements through their clothing.
Lace and Silk Fabrics
Lace and silk fabrics were widely used in 1960s fashion, particularly for formal and evening wear. These materials added a sense of luxury and femininity to many outfits. Designers often used them to create elegant dresses that were both delicate and sophisticated. Even today, lace and silk remain popular choices for high-end and special occasion clothing.
Futuristic Flair
The late 1960s saw a rise in “space-age” fashion due to rapid technological advancements. Designers experimented with metallic fabrics, unconventional materials, and overall “The Jetson’s”-type looks. These futuristic clothes were directly related to society’s growing fascination with space exploration and future advancements. The result was a bold and slightly alien-leaning style that pushed the boundaries of tradition.
Unique Patterns and Designs
The 1960s were known for their playful and experimental use of patterns and designs. Geometric shapes, psychedelic prints, and maximalist designs became especially popular during the mid to late part of the decade. These over-the-top pieces were tied to the rise of counterculture movements. Clothing items went beyond basic fashion, becoming a canvas for creativity.
Solid One-Piece Swimsuits
One-piece swimsuits were a staple of 1960s fashion, during a time when showing midriff was not necessarily the norm in poolside settings. At the beach and during beauty pageants, women were commonly seen wearing one-piece suits. These designs typically featured clean lines and modest coverage. Many one-piece suits offered a streamlined silhouette, while still allowing for feminine details.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Keystone / Getty Images.