Think about what was men's fashion in the 1960s, and one feels as though one is stepping into a time machine. The 1960s were a decade of change, freedom, and visual growth. Men's fashion evolved greatly throughout this period, mixing timeless classics with strong current ideas. From laid-back summer wear to exact cut suits, the 1960s had something for every male.
What Was Men's Fashion in the 1960s? Let’s Break It Down!
For men's style, the 1960s were really important. Most men wore basic, unassuming clothing before this decade. But everything descended into anarchy in the 1960s! Popular were bright colors, strong patterns, and unusual accessories. Let's explore the specifics now.
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Top Men’s 60s Fashion Trends
Harrington Jackets
When people ask, what was men's fashion in the 1960s? the Mod style is among the first that springs to me! This tendency is very interesting; it never truly disappeared. For Mod enthusiasts, the Harrington jacket—a classic still looking modern today—was a must-have. This jacket shouts 1960s attitude with its cropped cut, upturned collar, and (usually) tartan lining.
Though you may get exquisite wool or suede jackets inspired by the original, the Baracuta G9 Harrington is the most famous. Some recent versions lack the tartan, but we love it! This jacket looks fantastic with skinny jeans and boots for 1960s style.
Chelsea Boot
Perfect 60s rock 'n' roll is a pair of well-polished Chelsea boots: sleek, sensual, and little dangerous. Though tradition has it Queen Victoria wore them for strolling, they have been around for years; they became stylish in Chelsea, the hub of the swinging 60s. When considering what was men's fashion in the 1960s, Chelsea boots were quite important and usually worn with slim-cut suits or mod-inspired ensembles. Modern Chelsea boots come into two camps: those loyal to the vintage, delightfully flexible and ideally with a stacked Cuban heel (think Saint Laurent); and tough, clompy Chelsea boots more in keeping with the ugly shoe trend (Bottega Veneta, et al). Wear the former with really crisp tailoring; the latter with cargo trousers or denim. Either way, highlight what's under by choosing a somewhat cropped fit.
Knitted Polo
We believe the knitted polo shirt is the best garment ever designed, alongside the Harrington in the Mod hall of fame. A neat collar and snug fit make the knitted polo look 'done up' yet also comfortable. It's also really pleasant if you use a nice, natural wool like merino. Knitted polos are adaptable and may be worn with chinos, jeans, shorts, and suits. They can highlight color and design. Choose one with a strong stripe or contrast placket for 60s style.
Mad Men Tailoring
Never has a show influenced men's fashion like Mad Men. The show is credited with starting the 60s renaissance, which continues today. In the late 2000s, the program revived the popularity of suits, particularly the well-fitting businesswear of the early 60s, as rendered by the show's costume designers. The 50s suits were muted, in respectable greys and blacks, but the 60s suits were tighter fitting, narrower lapels, and usually worn with a slim tie.
Tweed
Ivy League style represented the American dream at the outset of the decade. The 60s model of preppy style was more formal than the 80s, with Oxford shirts with knitted ties and tweed jackets.
The contemporary preppy trend combines streetwear with minimalism for a subversive twist on aspirational style. Wear large tweed with slightly cropped trousers or straight-legged denim, which would have been sacrilegious in the Ivy League.
Cheap Shoes
The ultimate 60s Ivy style? Today, penny loafers go well with raw denim and sweatpants (think brown loafers with big lug soles, colorful, vintage sweats, and a carefree attitude). In the 1960s, Bass Weejuns were a popular choice for men's loafers.
Black Turtleneck
Black roll necks, worn by women, men, beatniks, and Black Panthers with black berets, symbolized revolution in the 1960s. Naturally, they've stayed. Fit and finish are crucial when pairing one with an outfit: sleek but not clinging (muscle fit is forbidden), and made of cashmere or merino.
Psychedelic
Over the 1960s, men's fashion changed dramatically. The Beatles came out in black and grey suiting and disintegrated 10 years later in a color and pattern explosion. Like many others, LSD broadened Paul, John, George, and Ringo's perspectives, making their music and clothing stranger.
We don't recommend hallucinogens or Sgt Pepper-style satin. Big, psychedelic designs have been trending for a while, with Dries Van Noten and Palm Angels experimenting with twisted prints and acid neon colors. Opt for bold designs and colors or a basic look with a psychedelic shirt, white tee, and black slacks.
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1960s Fashion Icons: Who Set the Trends?
In fashion in the 1960s, stars and musicians prevailed. The Beatles produced famous matching clothes and boots early in the decade. Later, singers like Jimi Hendrix and Mick Jagger inspired wilder fashions including frilly blouses, velvet coats, and headbands.
TV personalities mattered as well! While Steve McQueen's motorcycling jackets made every man want to appear like a rebel, Don Draper from Mad Men brought back stylish suits.
Accessories: The Little Things That Made a Big Difference
Without accessories, no ensemble was finished. Added accent were thin belts, bracelets, and scarves. Trendy also were hats like the flat cap or beret. Men wore cuffs or carried pocket squares, a folded fabric in the coat pocket, for formal occasions. Indeed, some fearless men even wore necklaces—something unusual prior to the 1960s fashion!
What Did Kids Wear in the 1960s?
Children's fashion followed that of the adults! Boys wore striped polo shirts for fun and miniature replicas of suits for formal events. Playgrounds favorites were "high-top sneakers" and baseball hats.
Summertime shorts with checkered shirts or suspensers kept lads cool. Indeed, some had bow ties for family pictures as well.
Sports and Outdoor Fashion: Ready for Adventure!
Men in the 1960s embraced the outdoors for hiking, surfing, or baseball. Must-haves were cargo shorts, zip-up windbreakers, and tough boots. Durable, athletic clothing helped brands like Levi's and Adidas gain recognition.
Tight-fitting trunks smaller than modern designs and striped towels were poolside basics for swimming.
Why 1960s Fashion Still Matters Today
Ever run across someone sporting tie-dye shirts or bell-bottom jeans? Thank you for the 60s! Many of the trends from this decade find favor once more. Inspired by this legendary period, designers now use classic motifs and slim-fit suits.
Conclusion:
What then was men's fashion in the 1960s? It was vibrant, bold, and just plain fun! From colorful ties to leather coats, this decade altered public perceptions of fashion. Remember the next time you put on your preferred jeans or a stylish T-shirt—you are donning a little of history!
FAQ's
What was popular male fashion in the 1960s?
Cuffed jeans and corduroy trousers were popular in the early 1960s, when they were worn with athletic coats or blazers and polo shirts tucked in. As the decade went on, little boys' fashion gradually started to include the color and pattern found in men's apparel.
What do men in their 60s wear?
Invest in timeless, classic pieces if you want to make sure that, as a guy over 60, you always look good in your attire. Adopting timeless men's fashion pieces like white leather shoes, flat-front chinos, and a sharp oxford shirt will boost your self-esteem and make getting ready easier.
What were men's roles in the 1960s?
The males entered the workforce to earn a living and were either the family's primary provider and head of the home, or they were desirable, eligible bachelors. Women were either unmarried but always searching for a suitable spouse, or they played the duties of housewife, mother, and homemaker.
How to look like 60s style?
Plastic raincoats, faux fur, sandals, kitten heels, or white go-go boots were frequently worn with outfits. The invention of the miniskirt was another significant fashion development in the middle of the 1960s. Tall, vibrantly colored go-go boots and tight, sleeveless tops were frequently paired with miniskirts.
