The 1960s were a time of bold choices—whether in music, culture, or fashion. It was a decade where style boundaries were pushed, and people weren’t afraid to experiment with wild patterns, unexpected materials, and daring silhouettes. At the time, many of these looks seemed like fleeting trends, destined to stay locked in the past. But fashion has a funny way of circling back, and some of the most bizarre styles from the ’60s have managed to make surprising comebacks. Here are 15 fashions from that groovy era that, against all odds, found their way back into our closets.
1. Bell-Bottoms
In the ’60s, bell-bottoms flared out like nobody’s business, turning heads with their exaggerated shapes. Originally favored by sailors, they became the uniform of hippies and rockstars, often paired with psychedelic tops. While they seemed destined to stay in the past, bell-bottoms strutted back into the fashion world in the 2000s and have made appearances ever since. Now, you’ll spot them on runways and in stores, proving that wide legs never really went out of style.
2. Tie-Dye
What started as a symbol of counterculture rebellion in the ’60s has become a DIY favorite in modern wardrobes. Back then, tie-dye was about peace, love, and individuality, with bright swirls splashed across t-shirts, dresses, and even pants. Fast-forward to today, and tie-dye has made a full-on comeback, showing up everywhere from high fashion to loungewear. It’s still playful and colorful, but now with a modern, chic twist.
3. Mini Skirts
When Mary Quant introduced the mini skirt in the early ’60s, it was nothing short of revolutionary. Hemlines shot up, shocking the older generation and delighting the youth, who embraced the bold, liberated look. While minis never fully disappeared, they’ve cycled in and out of mainstream fashion, making strong returns in the ’90s and again in the 2020s. Today, they’re a staple in every fashion-forward wardrobe, proving that a daring hemline never goes out of style.
4. Go-Go Boots
White, knee-high, and impossibly shiny, go-go boots were the footwear of choice for ’60s mod fashionistas. They were sleek, futuristic, and paired perfectly with mini dresses and bold prints. While they might’ve seemed like a relic of dance floors past, go-go boots have made a striking comeback, especially in festival and street style scenes. Modern versions might have different materials or colors, but the spirit of the ’60s is alive and well in today’s boot game.
5. Fringe
In the ’60s, fringe wasn’t just for the Wild West—it was the height of bohemian chic. Whether it was on jackets, vests, or bags, those dangling threads swayed with every step, adding a playful, carefree vibe. Fast forward to today, and fringe has returned in both high fashion and casual wear, from runways to music festivals. It’s still as fun and funky as ever, proving that some details never really fade away.
6. Round Sunglasses
John Lennon made them iconic, but round sunglasses were everywhere in the ’60s, giving off that perfect mix of intellectual and rebellious. They faded out for a while, replaced by bigger, bolder frames in the ’80s and ’90s. But now? Round frames are back in full force, offering a retro, cool vibe that’s hard to resist. Whether mirrored, tinted, or classic black, they’re a nod to the past that still feels fresh.
7. Psychedelic Prints
Swirling colors, mind-bending patterns, and optical illusions were all the rage in the ’60s, reflecting the era’s love for experimentation. These prints covered everything from dresses to shirts to wallpaper, creating a vibrant, almost hypnotic aesthetic. While they faded for a bit, psychedelic prints have made a bold return in modern streetwear and festival fashion. The colors might be a little more subdued now, but the trippy vibes are still strong.
8. Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks were the go-to layering piece in the ’60s, worn by beatnik poets, mod models, and everyone in between. They were sleek, simple, and surprisingly versatile, working under dresses or paired with bell-bottoms. After falling out of favor for a bit, turtlenecks are back as a wardrobe essential, loved for their cozy yet chic vibe. Whether slim-fitting or oversized, they’ve proven their staying power through the decades.
9. Wide-Leg Trousers
Before skinny jeans dominated the fashion world, wide-leg trousers were the epitome of cool in the ’60s. With their flowing lines and relaxed fit, they were both stylish and comfortable, making them a favorite among both men and women. Today, wide-leg pants have reclaimed their place in fashion, offering a breezy alternative to more fitted styles. They’re proof that sometimes, bigger really is better.
10. Shift Dresses
Shift dresses, with their straight, simple lines, were a mod fashion staple in the ’60s. They were often adorned with bold colors and geometric patterns, embodying the era’s love for minimalist yet striking design. While fashion shifted towards more fitted silhouettes in later decades, shift dresses have made a quiet comeback for their effortless, flattering shape. They’re now a go-to for those looking for both comfort and style.
11. Bold, Graphic Patterns
The ’60s weren’t shy when it came to patterns—stripes, polka dots, and checkerboards covered everything from dresses to home décor. These bold graphics were part of the era’s playful, youthful spirit, and they made a statement wherever they appeared. Today, designers have embraced these retro patterns, bringing them back into modern collections with a contemporary twist. Whether on dresses, blouses, or even accessories, these prints are just as eye-catching now as they were then.
12. Headbands and Hair Scarves
In the ’60s, headbands and scarves weren’t just practical—they were essential fashion accessories. From thick, bold headbands to flowing scarves tied around the head, these pieces added a touch of bohemian flair to any outfit. After disappearing for a few decades, they’ve made a comeback in everything from casual streetwear to red carpet looks. They’re now a chic way to add a vintage vibe to any hairstyle.
13. Denim Jackets
Denim jackets in the ’60s were a symbol of rebellion and youth culture, worn by everyone from rockstars to activists. They were rugged, cool, and effortlessly stylish, becoming a staple in casual wardrobes. While they never fully disappeared, denim jackets have cycled back into mainstream fashion in a big way, often customized with patches or distressed details. They’re as timeless now as they were back then, proving that some classics never fade.
14. Monochrome Outfits
Wearing one color from head to toe might seem like a modern trend, but it was all the rage in the ’60s. Bold, single-color outfits in bright hues or classic black-and-white made a striking fashion statement. This look has made a major return, with monochrome outfits dominating runways and street style alike. It’s sleek, simple, and surprisingly impactful, just like it was decades ago.
15. Faux Fur Coats
Big, fluffy, and often in wild colors, faux fur coats were a glamorous staple in the ’60s. They added a touch of luxury and drama to any outfit, whether you were heading to a party or just strolling down the street. Today, faux fur is back, but with a more ethical twist, as sustainable fashion has embraced cruelty-free materials. The bold colors and oversized shapes are still there, but now with a modern, eco-conscious flair.
While some of these trends might’ve seemed destined to stay in the past, fashion has a way of surprising us. The ’60s were all about pushing boundaries, and even today, these bold choices continue to inspire designers and trendsetters alike. Whether it’s a pair of bell-bottoms or a psychedelic print, these once-bizarre fashions prove that everything old can be new again.
