Contemporary ‘60s-style fashion: discover modern ‘60s fashion trends
Figure-hugging mini skirts, flared trousers and flowing dresses: the iconic fashion of the ‘60s has experienced several revivals and has continuously influenced fashion trends over the decades. What is it about the ‘60s style that makes it so special? We’ll show you how you can incorporate some elements of the ‘60s into your outfits whilst staying true to your style.
Swinging sixties: key elements of ‘60s-style fashion
The 1960s were a revolutionary decade in fashion, characterised by an experimental mindset, societal transformation and a departure from conservative style norms. While the early years were still characterised by elegant, fitted cuts and classic 50s silhouettes, the second half of the decade brought radical change. Shorter skirts and dresses, more daring cuts and futuristic designs dominated the scene.
Youth movements such as the British mod subculture or the hippie movement towards the end of the decade had a significant influence on fashion. In the fashion world, this manifested in more casual, playful and often rebellious styles. The ‘60s also stood for colourful prints, psychedelic patterns and unconventional ‘space age’ cuts. This break with the traditional rules of fashion made the ‘60s one of the most style-defining decades ever.
‘60s-style clothing revival: key pieces
Many of the defining trends of ‘60s fashion are either making a comeback in modern fashion today or have never really gone out of fashion since their debut in the ‘60s. Mini skirts, for example, are a timeless fashion classic. Today they are often combined with oversized blazers or simple blouses to give them a contemporary touch. The somewhat more eccentric ‘60s styles such as flowing floral dresses, crocheted cardigans and dresses and psychedelic patterns are frequently seen at festivals nowadays. However, they can also be combined for everyday wear.
Slim fit suits still play a role in men's fashion today. Although they are worn in a different context such as for work and smart occasions rather than for leisure. Ivy League styles with polo shirts, chunky knit jumpers and chinos, which characterised the preppy look of later decades, can also be styled in a modern way.
Therefore, the ‘60s style provides a lot of opportunities for individual and modern interpretations without feeling dressed up.
Must-haves for women’s modern ‘60s outfits
Women's fashion in the ‘60s was multi-facetted. On the one hand, it was simple and straightforward, yet on the other hand, it showed off its colourful and rebellious side. To style a woman’s ‘60s outfit that honours the trends of this era without looking dressed up, you can choose from the following key pieces:
‘60s fashion for women: mini dresses
The mini skirt revolutionised women's fashion and still stands for a feminine but confident look today. If you want to incorporate a mini skirt into a ‘60s-inspired outfit, then opt for a short and slightly flared A-line skirt. Chequered skirts or styles made from tweed, suede or corduroy exude a trendy, retro style. Pair this look with knee-high boots for a classic ensemble or with trainers to add a casual touch.
‘60s-style clothing: A-line dresses
Classic ‘60s-style A-line dresses are slightly flared and fit loosely around the waist. The simple, short, shift dresses of this era are characterised by a loose fit and clean lines. For an authentic ‘60s style, go for loose A-line dresses with a minimalistic, slightly boxy cut. If you feel more inspired by the hippie fashion of the late ‘60s, you can opt for flowing maxi dresses for a charming retro style.
Women's ‘60s clothing: trousers
During the 1960s, trousers became a part of everyday wear for women which was a historical first. Straight-cut trousers were paired with simple blouses or cardigans. Over the course of the ‘60s, the variety of trouser styles became plentiful, from slim-fit jeans and Capri trousers to knee-length shorts. Back then, women’s trousers were a symbol of emancipation and have become an integral part of women’s fashion today.
‘60s-style for women: bellbottoms
In the late ‘60s, (denim) bellbottoms became an icon of the hippie movement. What makes them different is their characteristic flared pant legs from the knee down. Modern flared trousers are often figure-hugging, are high-waisted and have a more subtle ‘flare’. To create a balanced look and draw the focus to your waist, you can pair flared jeans with a crop top, a cropped jumper or an oversized blazer.
‘60s fashion for women: trouser suits
In the ‘60s, trouser suits were a symbol of female emancipation. Today, they are particularly popular as office wear and for special occasions. From casual, oversized versions to tailored business blazers and slim-fit suit trousers in bright colours, modern trouser suits remain a symbol of elegance and self-confidence.
‘60s fashion for women: bright tights
Paired with a mini skirt or A-line dress, bright tights are an absolute fashion statement and show how colourful ‘60s fashion was. Opt for bold colours such as mustard yellow, maroon or turquoise under a simple outfit or complement a modern monochromatic style with colourful tights.
‘60s fashion for men: key elements
Men's fashion in the ‘60s was characterised by slim fits, elegant cuts and a sporty touch. Many of these classics are still an integral part of modern fashion and can be combined in a variety of ways:
1960s fashion for men: slim-fit suits
The slim-fit mod style suits of the ‘60s create a simple, elegant silhouette and are a classic in men's fashion today. Paired with a slim tie or polo neck jumper, you can create a contemporary ‘60s-inspired men’s outfit.
‘60s fashion for men: polo neck jumpers
The polo neck jumper stands for both the laid-back artist as well as the elegant intellectual. It looks particularly chic under a blazer or coat in combination with chinos or slim-fit jeans.
‘60s men's clothing: chinos
This casual alternative to classic trousers is rooted in the ‘60s and remains on-trend thanks to its versatility. Chinos can be styled with trainers for a casual look or with loafers for smarter occasions. In addition, they also pair well with shirts or jumpers to create modern and versatile ‘60s-inspired outfits for men.
Men's ‘60s outfit: polo shirts
Polo shirts became popular in the ‘60s and are a key piece for a contemporary preppy style. Today, polo shirts are available in trendy colours and simple designs, making them a popular alternative to shirts for a casual look.
‘60s fashion for men: Harrington jacket
A blouson is a lightweight yet robust garment that was a typical element of the casual and sporty Ivy League style. Today, it is deemed a timeless basic and can be paired with chinos or jeans for everyday wear.
‘60s-style fashion: corduroy trousers
Corduroy is currently making a big comeback. Whether slim-fit or wide-cut, corduroy trousers go particularly well with chunky knitwear or leather jackets and give your outfit a touch of modern nostalgia.
How to give ‘60s-style fashion a modern look
If you would like to achieve a modern and wearable version of the ‘60s style for your everyday looks, focus on iconic key pieces from this era. Instead of wearing ‘60s-style clothes from head to toe, opt for carefully curated items that embody the spirit of the ‘60s. This is a safe way to incorporate a ‘60s vibe into your wardrobe and still look modern and stylish. The following tips can help you choose suitable pieces for your ‘60s-inspired look:
Combine vintage cuts with modern patterns and colours: geometric prints or a minimalistic chequered pattern will give an A-line dress a retro charm. For a modern interpretation of the hippie look, you can opt for a maxi dress in a trendy boho style.
Alternatively, you can combine retro patterns with modern cuts: a psychedelic ‘60s pattern on a casual oversized jumper or a retro floral pattern on a modern jumpsuit makes for an exciting contrast.
Wear classics with current trend pieces: a mini skirt can be paired with chunky trainers instead of Mary Janes or pair a polo neck jumper with a leather jacket instead of a blazer.
Use characteristic accessories sparingly for a subtle ‘60s style: large statement sunglasses or ‘60s-style knee-high boots are often enough to give your outfit an unmistakable vintage touch.
Conclusion: modern style is still influenced by ‘60s fashion
The ‘60s produced a number of iconic looks that still characterise the fashion world today. You may even be wearing ‘60s-style clothing from time to time without even realising it. By pairing vintage cuts with modern fabrics, patterns and accessories, you can create authentic yet contemporary ‘60s outfits. Whether mini skirts, shift dresses or chinos, the fashion of this decade remains a continuous source of stylish looks with a retro charm.
