Vintage fashion is more than just a fleeting trend—it’s a portal to a time when individuality and self-expression ruled the style world. The 60s and 70s remain two of the most iconic decades in fashion history, and their influence is still felt in wardrobes and runways today. Whether you’re a vintage lover, a trend follower, or just someone looking to incorporate a retro twist into your modern style, this guide to 60s and 70s fashion trends is sure to inspire.
From the mod minis of the 1960s to the free-spirited boho vibes of the 1970s, we’ll take you on a deep dive into the defining looks of each decade. We’ll explore what these styles are called, how they’ve evolved over time, and their unmistakable impact on today’s fashion.
What Were the Fashion Trends of the 60s?
The 1960s were a time of transformation, not just in culture and politics but also in style. Fashion became a powerful form of self-expression, and the rules of traditional dressing quickly unraveled.
The Mod Look
When people think of 60s fashion, the mod (short for “modernist”) look often comes to mind. Popularized by British youth culture, the mod style was characterized by:
- Mini Skirts: Thanks to designers like Mary Quant, super-short hemlines became all the rage. The mini skirt symbolized rebellion and freedom, especially among young women.
- Bold Prints and Colors: Vibrant geometric patterns, color-blocking, and psychedelic prints were staples of the mod aesthetic. Think bright oranges, lime greens, and electric blues.
- A-Line Dresses: Simple, A-line shift dresses were practical yet chic, often adorned with bold graphic patterns.
- Go-Go Boots: Usually white and knee-high, go-go boots completed the quintessential mod ensemble.
The Hippie Movement
Toward the mid-to-late 60s, the hippie counterculture started to dominate, bringing a more relaxed and nature-inspired vibe to fashion. This style embraced:
- Flared Jeans: Wide, bell-bottomed trousers became a staple for both men and women.
- Tie-Dye: Brightly colored, hand-dyed T-shirts and dresses were the uniform of peace protests and outdoor music festivals.
- Fringed Clothing: From jackets to handbags, fringe details added playful movement to outfits.
- Peasant Blouses: Loose, flowy blouses with embroidery or lace details embodied the carefree spirit of the hippies.
Space-Age Fashion
Another key 60s trend, inspired by the space race and futuristic technology, was space-age fashion. Spearheaded by designers like André Courrèges and Pierre Cardin, this trend featured:
- Metallics: Dresses, tops, and even makeup in silvers and golds.
- Monochrome: Black-and-white color schemes and geometric silhouettes were futuristic and chic.
- PVC and Plastics: Unconventional materials, like see-through plastics, added a quirky edge.
What is 60s Style Called?
60s fashion is often divided into three overlapping movements:
- Mod Fashion (early-to-mid 60s): Youth-driven and experimental, influencing urban streetwear.
- Hippie Style (late 60s): Natural, free-spirited, and bohemian.
- Space-Age Fashion (mid-to-late 60s): Futuristic and avant-garde.
What Were the Trends of the 70s?
The 1970s were a time of maximum expression, extravagance, and variety. If the 60s laid the foundation for breaking traditional fashion norms, the 70s took it one step further by mixing genres and celebrating individuality.
Boho-Chic Aesthetic
Born out of the hippie influences of the late 60s, boho-chic was one of the defining looks of the 70s. Staple pieces included:
- Flowy Maxi Dresses: Billowy and often adorned with floral prints or ethnic patterns.
- Wide-Brim Hats: Perfectly paired with long dresses or loose blouses for that effortless bohemian vibe.
- Earthy Tones: Browns, beiges, and burnt oranges dominated the boho color palette.
Disco Fever
If the 70s had another standout style, it was disco! The nightlife scene called for bold, glamorous looks, featuring:
- Shimmer and Sparkle: Sequins, metallic fabrics, and lamé ruled the dance floors.
- Jumpsuits: Slim-fitting jumpsuits paired with platform heels became iconic.
- Wrap Dresses: Diane von Fürstenberg’s figure-flattering wrap dresses were a popular choice for both day and disco outings.
- Platform Shoes: Both men and women embraced towering platform shoes as a statement of confidence.
The Punk Edge
Rebelling against the perceived excess of the disco era, punk style emerged alongside bands like the Sex Pistols and The Clash. Punk fashion focused on:
- Distressed Denim: Ripped jeans paired with safety pins and patches.
- Leather Jackets: Iconic, edgy, and rebellious.
- Tartan and Plaid: Often styled in unconventional and clashing ways.
What is 70s Style Fashion Called?
70s style has a variety of names depending on the aesthetic:
- Boho-Chic for those who embraced natural, free-flowing designs.
- Disco Glam for the glittery, nightlife-inspired style.
- Punk Rock for an anti-establishment, gritty look.
Key Accessories of the 70s
Accessories were important statements in 70s fashion, including:
- Oversized Sunglasses: The bigger, the better.
- Scarves: Worn in hair, around necks, or even tied to bags.
- Statement Belts: Wide belts were used to cinch dresses, jumpsuits, and long tunics.
Why Are 60s and 70s Fashion Trends Still Relevant Today?
Fashion is cyclical, and the trends of the 60s and 70s have made a strong comeback in recent years. Designers and brands continue to reimagine these decades in modern ways:
- Mini Skirts and Go-Go Boots are back on the runways, often styled with contemporary materials.
- Boho-Chic remains a favorite for summer festivals like Coachella.
- Flared Jeans have returned in vintage-inspired cuts that flatter modern silhouettes.
The overarching appeal of 60s and 70s styles lies in their celebration of individuality, freedom, and self-expression. Each trend tells a story of its era, yet these stories feel timeless when woven into present-day fashion.
Where to Find 60s and 70s Inspired Pieces
Love these retro trends? You’re in luck! Many modern fashion brands are offering pieces that nod to this iconic era:
- ASOS Vintage section boasts fun, print-forward mod and bohemian items.
- Depop and ThredUp are great for finding authentic vintage pieces.
- Zara and H&M often reinterpret 70s-inspired details in their seasonal collections.
Timeless, Chic, and Full of Personality
The 60s and 70s were decades that empowered creativity, individuality, and bold self-expression. By exploring these fashion eras, you can find pieces that not only resonate with your personal style but also carry a unique story of cultural significance.
Whether you’re on the hunt for a pair of go-go boots or trying to nail that perfect boho-chic aesthetic, don’t be afraid to experiment. Because if the 60s and 70s taught us anything, it’s that fashion should always be fun, fearless, and a reflection of you.
