Our love for Swinging Sixties fashion trends looks knows no bounds. Moon landings and mods, sartorially speaking, is there a better decade?
The "Youthquake" movement, a phrase coined by Vogue editor-in-chief Diana Vreeland, blossomed - think Austin Powers in 4D. And when the contraceptive pill became readily available in 1967, this meant one thing: sexual liberation.
"At the dawn of the 1960s, young people's income was at its highest since the end of the Second World War. Increased economic power fuelled a new sense of identity and the need to express it," explains the V&A, "The fashion industry quickly responded by creating designs for young people that no longer simply copied 'grown up' styles. The Beatniks and the Mods (an abbreviation of 'Modernists') were particularly influential early in the decade. As committed to European-style clothes – characterised by high-impact colour and line – as they were to American soul and R&B music, Mods helped focus the tastes of young people everywhere, and inspired the look of bands like The Who, The Small Faces and The Beatles." Fashion's cyclical nature means that what goes around comes around, and although the 1960s were more than 50 years ago now, we're still reaping the style benefits from the It-girls of the day.
English fashion model and sixties icon Twiggy poses for a shoot on the King's Road in London in 1966
Some of the major trendsetters of the decade include actresses, singers and models, laden with je ne sais quoi that set them apart from the rest. Twiggy, with her famous doll-like eyelashes, for one, along with Jean Shrimpton and Dusty Springfield who favoured puffy babydolls and voluminous block fringes.
The Trends:
The 60s were all about bold prints, mod dresses, and mini skirts. Think A-line silhouettes, go-go boots, and lots of shift dresses. Accessories like big sunglasses, headscarves, and statement jewellery were must-haves. The decade was all about mixing fun patterns and bright colours, making every outfit a playful statement of personal style. "The 1960s fell in love with new, man-made materials, with young designers keen to find new angles on established forms. They exploited the potential of modern plastics and synthetic fibres – Perspex, PVC, polyester, acrylic, nylon, rayon, Spandex, etc. – to create easy-care outfits that were eye-catching and fun," explains the V&A.
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How To Recreate The Look:
Channeling 60s fashion? Go for mod silhouettes like mini skirts, shift dresses, or bell-bottom pants paired with a turtleneck. Add bold accessories like oversized sunglasses, chunky earrings, or knee-high go-go boots.
Don’t forget to experiment with prints—geometric patterns and psychedelic designs were huge. Throw in a headband or scarf to complete your vintage look, and you’re basically ready to time-travel to 'swinging' London.
The Colour Codes:
The 60s were a vibrant decade full of bold color choices. Popular hues included bright orange, electric blue, hot pink, and lime green. Black-and-white combos were also trendy in mod fashion, especially in geometric prints.
Psychedelic patterns with were huge towards the late 60s, and earthy tones like browns, olives, and mustard were embraced in the more bohemian, hippie styles seen later on in the decade.
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Wanting to give your current wardrobe a 1960s-themed overhaul? Keep scrolling…
The 1960s Fashion Trends We Still Adore Today:
Mod Mini Skirts
The modern minthusiast (rolls off the tongue, no?) owes much to the late designer Mary Quant. While she never claimed to be its inventor (that honour she always attributed to the London girls who wore them on the streets), she was one of its greatest champions and named the popular style after her beloved Mini Cooper car. As the mini skirt flourished, a shift in the cultural landscape was taking place - women were being allowed more sexual freedom. Its perfection lies in the proportion - with that much flesh on show, there’s a certain threshold of confidence involved. Stepping out with higher hemlines was a radical move and the girls on the street made a major political statement by channelling such an effortless look. The wearer of the mini is spirited, sexy and most importantly, unaffected by British weather.
Shifty Shapes
A departure from the hourglass shape that dominated in the 1950s, the shift dress favoured the straight up-and-down look. Flattering on column body types, the shift is defined by fabric that hangs straight down from the shoulders, offering no waist definition. The style was often sleeveless, and coloured with block, poppy hues.
Beatnik Berets
A favourite amongst Beatniks, in the 1960s the beret was often teamed with a black turtleneck and a love of literature. The rise of French 'New Wave' cinema also contributed to its popularity. Styling a beret is not a job for the fainthearted - the slouchy shape has to be carefully positioned on the head so that you look chic and not pantomime.
Patent & PVC
Designers pushed the boundaries with fabric in the 1960s, and Paco Rabanne was one of those who was ahead of the curve. Incorporating metal and plastic into his ensembles, the designer rejected convention; at around the same time, PVC entered the mix. Glossy finishes not only gave fibres man-made water-repellant properties, the wet-look was highly fashionable.
Cool Crochet
Despite its humble origins, this trend is still absolutely everywhere - it's odd to believe that the craft was originally used as a cheap substitute for traditional lace back in early 19th century Europe. The 1960s saw a huge boom for crochet, and judging by the number of bucket hats, crop tops and slip dresses that are currently on the market today, the trend is going absolutely nowhere. With its design that embraces holes, crochet the perfect technique to wear during the warmer months. A stylish poolside moment would be incomplete without a sleeveless crochet maxi dress layered over a sleek one-piece.
Psychedelic Prints
The psychedelic art movement had a major effect on many areas of pop culture, namely music, literature, philosophy and, of course, clothing. The idea is that bright colours, distorted visuals and kaleidoscopic patterns are strongly reminiscent of the experience created by psychedelic substances. Some major artists of the time include Alex Grey, Rick Griffin and Wes Wilson.
Plenty of today's fashion brands are still producing collections featuring prints heavily inspired by the movement, including cult brand House of Sunny with its covetable bodycon midi dresses, as well as Emilio Pucci, paying tribute to the brand's founder who was dubbed the 'Prince of Prints' for his esteemed geometrics.
Bold Boots
Paired with the classic mini skirt, knee-high boots ruled the 1960s footwear scene alongside go-go boots. Heels were not overly high, certainly not in comparison to some of the vertiginous styles we see today, but they still felt cool and chic. Go-gos were white and mid-calf in height, as defined by top designer of the moment, André Courrèges, and made for the perfect accompaniment to a Space Age ensemble.
Trendy Tie-Dye
This trend was embraced by free-spirited counter-culturalists breaking away from the traditional social mould, and it came to symbolise all things peace-related. The idea of clothing as a form of protest gained traction, and many adopted a DIY approach, getting their hands dirty and creating their own tie-dye designs.
Beautiful Babydolls
The babydoll dress style began its life as a short nightgown, designed by Sylvia Pedlar in 1942 in response to wartime fabric rationing. Versions for children were then created – generally the style is defined by its empire line neckline and flowy skirt which made it easier mothers to change nappies. The cinematic release of Tennessee Williams' Babydoll, in which actress Carroll Baker wore a short-sleeved frill version, is thought to mark the origin of the dress style's name. In the 1960s, Twiggy paired hers with her now-iconic eye makeup look and T-bar Mary Janes, and thousands of others followed suit.
1960s Inspired Pieces To Shop Now:
Short beaded dress - MANGO
Why It Looks 1960s:
Neckline: The rounded neckline gives the dress a minimalist, geometric quality, which echoes the mod aesthetic of the 1960s, where simplicity and bold shapes were key features in fashion.
Editor's note: The dress’s straight, boxy cut is very reminiscent of the 1960s shift dresses that dominated the fashion world. Shift dresses were known for their simple, clean lines, just like this one. Go for pointed-toe flats or Mary Jane-style shoes for a true '60s mod look.
This dress is a stunning, vintage-inspired piece with a straight, mini-length design. It has a sleeveless silhouette and features a rounded neckline that gives it a clean, classic look. The standout feature of this dress is its all-over decorative beaded detail, which adds texture and a luxurious touch. It fastens with an invisible zip at the back, keeping the silhouette streamlined and polished.
Rabanne
sequin chain-disc mini dress
£3,080
Sequin chain-disc mini dress
Rabanne
Why It Looks '60s:
- Metallic and Reflective Surfaces: During the '60s, designers like Paco Rabanne experimented with futuristic materials, embracing a sci-fi influence that was heavily tied to the space race. The shiny discs on the dress are a nod to this space-age chic.
- Mod Silhouette: The mini dress length and A-line cut is classic 1960s Mod fashion, which was all about short, structured dresses that emphasised youth and modernity.
Editor's Note: This dress is eye-catching and unconventional. The metal disks create a striking visual that’s hard to miss, perfect for making an entrance. Keep accessories simple, as the dress is already a statement piece. Opt for delicate silver hoops or studs to echo the metallic finish without clashing.
This Rabanne chain-disc mini dress draws directly from the 1960s fashion scene, particularly the space-age aesthetic that emerged during the decade. The futuristic vibe of the silver-tone metal disks and reflective surfaces channels that bold, modern look that Paco Rabanne himself was known for in the 1960s, especially his use of unconventional materials like plastic and metal in fashion.
Milly Leopard Coat - RIXO
Why It Looks 1960s:
- Leopard Print: Leopard print was a major trend in the 1960s, especially within the countercultural fashion movements and high-fashion circles. The bold, exotic pattern became synonymous with rebellious glamour and rock 'n' roll style during the decade.
Editor's note: A standout coat that allows you to embrace your love for vintage-inspired fashion while staying cozy and chic. Go bold with a retro-inspired printed dress to mix patterns in an eclectic, stylish way.
A retro-inspired, mid-length piece designed with a boxy shape that adds structure while still allowing for ease of movement. The standout feature is its hand-painted Bohemia Leopard print, applied to a soft and warm felt fur, giving the coat a luxurious yet playful look. It features long sleeves, button fastenings down the front, and a back split for added comfort and flexibility.
Belle-D Heeled Boot
White Patent Calfskin and Gold-Finish Studs - dior
Why They Look 1960s:
Patent Leather Look: The shiny, white patent finish is highly evocative of the 1960s, when patent leather was a key material in accessories and footwear, particularly in the mod and space-age fashion movements. White patent boots became an iconic style statement during this time, worn by fashion-forward individuals.
Editor's note: As suggested by the Dior show, pair these boots with a miniskirt for a true 1960s-inspired look. A sleek A-line mini in a solid color (like black, white, or even bold hues like red or purple) would highlight the boots while creating a mod aesthetic.
Inspired by the elegance of the 1960s, these boots feature a white patent calfskin and leather-effect stretch fabric upper, giving them a sleek, shiny finish. The boots, from the Maison's Autumn-Winter 2024-2025 show, are adorned with gold-finish studs, adding a graphic, edgy touch to their classic design. They also have a decorative strap, adorned with a gold-finish CD metal pearl, which is inspired by Dior’s iconic Tribales earrings.
Disc Sequin Cap Sleeve Crop Top - Karen Millen
Disc Sequin Cap Sleeve Crop Top
Karen Millen
Why It Looks 1960s:
- Cropped Silhouette: Cropped tops became popular in the late '60s, reflecting the decade’s shift toward more youthful, playful, and daring styles. This top’s shorter length taps into that mod-inspired trend.
- Straight Fit: The straight, figure-skimming fit of the top is reminiscent of the streamlined silhouettes that were iconic in the '60s, when fashion began moving away from the more structured shapes of the '50s.
Editor's note: There’s a nod to '60s fashion with the shiny embellishments. To balance the cropped length, pair it with high-waisted trousers or a fitted pencil skirt. A metallic or satin material would complement the chainmail and add a modern yet cohesive feel.
This top is a statement piece made from shimmering chainmail material, adorned with premium sequin discs that catch and reflect the light, creating a dazzling effect. It features cap sleeves, a cropped length that sits midway down the midriff, and a scoop back that adds a daring and elegant touch.
Belle Denim Scoop Dress - aligne
Belle Denim Scoop Dress
Aligne
Why It Looks 1960s:
- A-Line Silhouette: The dress’s swingy, A-line shape is a key feature of 1960s mod fashion, which often emphasized clean lines and simple yet bold designs. This cut flatters by skimming the body and creates a youthful, playful vibe.
Editor's note: Layer a fitted turtleneck underneath in neutral shades like black, white, or cream to create a classic '60s-inspired mod look. This keeps the style clean and polished while adding warmth for cooler weather.
This versatile mini-length swing dress is made from a structured denim fabric. It features a wide hem and a relaxed A-line shape, which allows it to move freely. The scoop neckline adds softness to the design, and it can be styled with various layering pieces.
SHORT SEQUINNED KNIT SKIRT 35.99 GBP - ZARA
Short Sequinned Knit Skirt
ZARA
Why It Looks 1960s:
- Mini Skirt Length: The mini skirt was a defining silhouette of the 1960s, introduced by designers like Mary Quant. This skirt’s short length is an iconic nod to that decade’s focus on youthful, daring fashion.
Editor's note: The bottle green hue is striking and sophisticated, standing out in a sea of neutral shades or more traditional metallics. Pair the skirt with a simple black or white fitted turtleneck or a sleek blouse to balance the boldness of the sequins. A tucked-in button-down shirt in a silky material would also create a chic, polished look.
This skirt is a mid-waist, short mini skirt with a fitted silhouette that hugs the hips. It features all-over sequin appliqué detailing in a rich bottle green colour, which gives it a luxurious and glamorous look. The sequins catch the light, creating a shimmering effect with every movement. It has a clean, minimalist design with an invisible side zip fastening, ensuring a seamless fit and polished finish.
Pink Collar Pointelle Wool Blend Knitted Jumper - Nobody's Child
Pink Collar Pointelle Wool Blend Knitted Jumper
Nobody's Child
Why It Looks 1960s:
- Scalloped Collar: The oversized scalloped collar is a key retro feature, reminiscent of '60s mod fashion, where exaggerated collars and playful details were a big trend. The collar’s boldness recalls the era’s love for geometric shapes and standout accessories.
Editor's note: Pair the jumper with high-waisted denim, whether it’s straight-leg jeans or flared trousers, for a casual but chic everyday look. The contrast of the chunky knit with the structure of denim creates a perfect balance.
This chunky knit jumper is designed in a soft pink hue, adding a playful and feminine touch to its cozy, oversized silhouette. The pointelle knit detailing creates texture, while the standout features include billowing bishop sleeves, a statement scalloped collar, and ribbed trims for added structure.
Tatum Vintage Floral Print Belted Dress - Joanie
Tatum Vintage Floral Print Belted Dress
Joanie
Why It Looks 1960s:
- Floral Print: Floral prints were a key motif in the late '60s, often reflecting the flower power movement. The rust-toned autumnal floral pattern evokes the earthy, bohemian spirit of the era.
Editor's note: For cooler weather or added '60s flair, consider pairing the dress with opaque black or colored tights to emphasize the mini length and give a mod-inspired touch.
This mini dress, is a delightful homage to 1960s fashion. It features a high neckline with a stand collar, short sleeves, and a flattering mini length. Crafted from a thick jersey fabric, the dress is comfortable yet structured, giving it a polished look. The standout detail is the all-over vintage rust-toned floral print, perfect for autumn, with warm hues that evoke retro charm.
PUCCI Iride printed stretch-scuba maxi skirt
Iride printed stretch-scuba maxi skirt
PUCCI
Why It Looks 1960s:
Psychedelic Print: Emilio Pucci was known for his bold, colorful patterns that dominated the decade. The swirling, colourful 'Iride' pattern is heavily inspired by the psychedelic prints of the 1960s, which were popularised during the rise of counterculture and the free-spirited, artistic movements.
Editor's note: The use of scuba fabric adds a modern touch to the skirt, giving it a structured yet flexible fit that feels different from more traditional fabrics. Balance the bold print of the skirt with a sleek, fitted top.
A bold, attention-grabbing piece, featuring the iconic technicolor swirls that Emilio Pucci is renowned for. This maxi skirt is designed to hug the body with its stretch-scuba fabric, offering both comfort and a sleek, form-fitting silhouette. The colorful, psychedelic pattern combines hues of pink, brown, purple, black, and white in sweeping, curving lines, creating a visually striking effect. The skirt also features a deep back split, adding an extra dose of drama and ease of movement.
Daiss 30 Shine Grey Snake Leather MARY JANES - CLARKS
Mary-Jane Daiss 30 Shine
Clarks
Why They Look 1960s:
Mary Jane Silhouette: The Mary Jane style is quintessentially 1960s, as it was a popular shoe design during the mod era. The rounded toe and double straps directly reference the playful, youthful styles of the decade.
Editor's note: For a more casual approach, wear them with high-waisted jeans or slim-fit denim. The snake-effect leather will dress up the jeans, making the overall outfit feel more put-together.
Made from premium grey snake-effect leather, these shoes offer an eye-catching texture and pattern. The style incorporates two slim, adjustable straps with gold buckles, providing both a secure fit and a touch of elegance. With a low, comfortable 30mm block heel, these shoes are designed for everyday wear while maintaining a chic look. They have a rounded toe shape, which adds a soft, retro feel.
How I Chose The Pieces:
After combing through the decade's photo archive, I pulled out the trends that are still utterly relevant today. I then scoured the internet's top fashion sites, taking into account style, price point and quality, to help you infuse your wardrobe with a splash of 'swinging sixties' glamour.
Why You Should Trust Me:
With a solid decade in the fashion industry, I've navigated through countless trends and have become a sucker for vintage fashion, especially when it comes iconic 1960s and 1970s style. As an editor and journalist, I'm immersed in the latest revivals of retro aesthetics, constantly on the hunt for the most striking and relevant pieces from that era. Whether your look leans toward mod-inspired boldness or the effortless chic of 1960s silhouettes, I offer insider knowledge on how to incorporate these timeless elements into your wardrobe, ensuring you exude Twiggy-approved vintage charm.
