The world of fashion has seen significant evolution since the 1960s, with many changes being for the better; however, some of the styles from that era remain memorable for their boldness and eccentricity. The 1960s were a time of revolutionary fashion choices that, while iconic in their own right, would undoubtedly cause quite a stir if reintroduced today. These are 18 of the most outrageous fashion moments.
Mini Skirts
While mini skirts are still a popular choice in modern society, there were designs from the ‘60s that would still have caused a stir today. This style of skirt revolutionized fashion in the 1960s. For example, Country & Town House writes, “This version of the mini was unlike skirts of the 50s, and had two popular styles: the column-shaped shift and the triangular A-line.”
Bold Makeup
This mainly included bold looks with the eye, such as winged liner and long lashes. For example, The Trend Spotter writes, “Long, spidery lashes à la Twiggy, eyeshadow in cool tones like blue, and bold cut crease makeup were all also popular trends.” This trend really reflected the era’s theatrical approach to fashion.
Leather Jackets
These weren’t just any leather jackets but often featured large amounts of studs, patches, zips, or even fringing. They were worn by plenty of celebrities, and this is what caused them to gain popularity. For example, Buffalo Jackson writes, “The Beatles incorporated leather fashion into their look, appealing to mainstream rock and roll fans around the world.”
Go-Go Boots
These boots were mid-calf and usually white in color. The low-heeled design made them easier to walk in, and they were popularized by celebrities like Nancy Sinatra. Go-go boots soon became the defining shoe of the ‘60s, with them evolving in height and color later on in the decade.
Colored Tights
Colored tights were a playful alternative to traditional stockings. They were often paired with mini skirts for a modern and youthful look. People from the ‘60s loved these bright tights because they represented the colorfulness of the era. These tights allowed people to really start experimenting with fashion.
Space Age Fashion
Fashion designers such as André Courrèges introduced futuristic designs into society, particularly in the colors white and silver. As this trend kicked off, clothing was made from new materials, with accessories also having an astronaut feel. This trend really showed the era’s fascination with space exploration.
Psychedelic Prints
Psychedelic prints consisted of swirling patterns and bright colors. This print reflected the counterculture movement that was prevalent during the decade. Psychedelic prints were all about symbolizing freedom and rebellion, which meant they became a fashion trend for both men and women.
Mod Fashion
Mod fashion was influenced by geometric shapes, bright colors, and clean lines. While it became extremely popular during the ‘60s, it might catch a few eyes today. Mod fashion became a huge trend in London and was mainly worn by the city’s forward-thinking youth. The main influence of this fashion trend lay in the music culture of bands like The Beatles.
PVC Clothing
PVC clothing became a bold fashion choice and was introduced by designers wanting to explore new materials and shapes. This trend represented the futuristic and innovative spirit of the 1960s. You would often find PVC clothing in bright colors and unconventional silhouettes that really wouldn’t agree with the fashion trends of today.
Bouffant Hairstyles
The bouffant hairstyle was extremely volumized hair that was supposed to symbolize glamor and femininity. It required extensive styling and very large amounts of hair product to ensure this hairstyle didn’t lose its shape. Bouffant hairstyles were worn by many celebrities, but they’re a huge contrast to today’s natural styles.
Bell-Bottom Jeans
These jeans were commonly worn as a part of the hippie movement, and that look would seriously cause a stir today. This particular style of jeans widened from the knee down to create a dramatic silhouette. You would often find them adorned with patches and embroidery.
Crop Tops
Crop tops exposed a person’s midriff, which challenged the norms of modesty during the ‘60s. While they’re still popular today, in the ’60s, they would have been much bolder and caused more of a scene. They would have also been worn by both men and women, and in today’s society, it’s predominantly a trend for women.
Tie-Dye
Tie-dye helped to represent the DIY culture of the 1960s and how the era rejected mass production of fashion. Each tie-dye piece would have been unique, showcasing a person’s individuality and creativity. This trend originated in hippie culture and then moved into mainstream fashion.
Fringe Details
Fringing helped to add movement and a bohemian flair to clothing. You could even find it in accessories such as bags and even home décor. However, it was most commonly seen on jackets, vests, and skirts. It embodied the 1960’s fascination with Native American and folk culture.
Peace Symbols and Protest Fashion
Peace and protesting played a huge role in 1960s culture, so much so that they started to become present in people’s clothing. They would incorporate this trend into clothing, jewelry, and accessories as a statement against war. Peace symbols were worn by individuals who wanted to express their political feelings.
Capes and Cloaks
This particular trend was revived by designers like Norman Norell and Cristóbal Balenciaga. Capes and cloaks added a dramatic flair to outerwear and would be something to catch a few eyes in today’s society. They were worn in various lengths and materials and could come in the form of elegant evening wear or casual everyday wear.
Optical Art Fashion
Contemporary Op Art writes, “The Op Art movement emerged in the 1960s. It employed optical illusions, geometric patterns, and vibrant colors to create a visual effect of movement, vibration, and three-dimensionality.” Clothes would be designed with puzzling black-and-white patterns that created a dizzying effect.
Crochet and Knitwear
Crochet and knitwear may also be commonly worn in today’s society, but the ‘60s went a bit more wild with these designs. Items were often handmade, which meant a person could well and truly make their sweater as unique as they wanted. There were many crochet dresses, tops, and accessories, and they all represented a more sustainable era in fashion.
