1. Bell-Bottom Jeans
Bell-bottom jeans were a staple of ’60s fashion, and while they may look wild by today’s standards, they were everywhere. These pants were fitted through the thighs before flaring out dramatically at the knees, often to the point of touching the floor. They were first popularized by sailors, but by the ’60s, they were adopted by the general public and embraced by the counterculture. At the time, they symbolized freedom and rebellion, but they also became a symbol of what many called “the groovy” era.
The wide-legged look was a fashion statement that made people do a double-take. Some loved the extra flair, while others couldn’t quite understand the appeal. Even so, bell-bottoms made their way into almost every closet, paired with everything from tie-dye shirts to leather vests. Today, we might look at bell-bottoms with a bit of disbelief, but there’s no denying they were a fun, bold fashion choice that captured the free-spirited nature of the decade.
2. The Mod Look
When we think of ’60s fashion, it’s hard to overlook the mod look, which had a major influence on the era. Think geometric patterns, bold colors, and sleek, short dresses that barely skimmed the thighs. The mod style, led by figures like Twiggy and Mary Quant, was all about embracing simplicity in the midst of a rapidly changing world. With bold stripes, color-blocking, and minimalist silhouettes, it was a sharp contrast to the bohemian styles also popular during the decade.
Yet, the mod look was more than just a visual statement. It represented the youth’s desire to break away from the more traditional styles of the past. The look was fun, cutting-edge, and certainly edgy, but it definitely makes you wonder how we ever thought some of those bold colors and patterns would hold up long-term. Still, it was an iconic look that remains emblematic of ’60s fashion and its sense of youthful rebellion.
3. Go-Go Boots
If there was a shoe that epitomized the ’60s, it would have to be the go-go boot. These knee-high, often white boots were a staple of the mod look, paired with short skirts and dresses that showed off the bold footwear. The boots were chunky, shiny, and often made of vinyl or leather, making them a statement piece in their own right. They were originally popularized by dancer and actress, Nancy Sinatra, and were soon seen on everyone from office workers to rock stars.
While go-go boots were the height of fashion at the time, it’s easy to see why they seem a little ridiculous now. The idea of wearing stiff, knee-high boots on a regular basis for anything other than a themed costume may seem impractical. However, despite their odd look, they were considered a must-have for fashionable women in the ’60s. There was just something about their shiny surface and space-age appeal that made them irresistible back then.
4. Mod Bob Haircuts
The mod bob was one of the most iconic hairstyles of the ’60s, and while it still has a place in fashion today, it was certainly a bold choice at the time. The bob haircut was sleek, straight, and chin-length, often with blunt bangs that created a sharp, geometric look. It was the kind of cut that made heads turn, and it was particularly striking when paired with mod clothing and go-go boots. For women, it was a departure from the more glamorous, long-haired styles of previous decades.
But while it was undoubtedly cool, looking back on the mod bob, it’s easy to see why some people questioned it. The style was so precise and angular that it almost seemed unnatural. Despite this, the mod bob became a symbol of the time, capturing the mood of a generation that was embracing bold changes in fashion and society. In many ways, it perfectly encapsulated the audacious and experimental spirit of the ’60s.
5. Paisley Prints
Paisley prints were all the rage in the ’60s, with the intricate, teardrop-shaped design popping up on everything from dresses to scarves to wall hangings. The pattern, which originated in Persia, made a huge comeback in the ’60s as part of the growing trend for all things psychedelic. The vibrant colors and swirling designs fit perfectly with the era’s love for bold, eye-catching fashion, especially within the counterculture movement.
However, looking back, it’s clear that paisley can be a bit much for the modern eye. When paired with the right items, it worked—however, overdoing it with too many paisley prints in one outfit could leave you looking a little dizzy. Despite this, paisley prints were part of a larger movement toward experimentation with color and patterns that defined the ’60s. They’re a fun reminder of how fashion was all about pushing boundaries during this time.
6. Polyester Suits
When you think of ’60s men’s fashion, the polyester suit is a prime example of what was trending. This fabric, which was synthetic, was cheap and durable, making it a popular choice for suits. The polyester suit was often cut in a slim, sharp silhouette, with bright colors like mustard yellow, teal, and deep orange making a splash. These suits were worn with skinny ties and often paired with large collars, which only added to their flamboyant appeal.
Looking back, it’s hard not to laugh at the sheer volume of polyester suits worn by men in the ’60s. The fabric was notoriously uncomfortable, sticky in warm weather, and had a tendency to make you look like you stepped straight out of a disco. Despite all this, the polyester suit was a symbol of the changing times—modern, bold, and practical for the everyday man who still wanted to look fashionable. It may not be something we’d choose today, but there’s no denying that it was a hit during its heyday.
