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The menswear of the 1960s is characterized by a spectacular period of innovation and transition, which laid the groundwork for the wide range of expressive and varied styles that characterize contemporary menswear today.
The conservative, fitted styles of the 1940s and early 1950s gave way to more widely accepted, bold, and varied appearances during this decade. The list of historic events that changed history is endless and includes the US landing on the moon, Muhammad Ali’s birth and ascent to fame, the British Invasion (which popularized UK music artists like The Beatles and Rolling Stones), the assassination of John F. Kennedy, the civil rights movement, and Dr. Martin Luther King. The history of Western civilization and, in certain circumstances, the entire world was altered by all of these events, which had a significant impact on men’s fashion in the 1960s.
Men’s fashion from the 1960s is a rich tapestry of styles that reflect the social and cultural transformations of the era, as we explore this universe. A remarkable exploration of individual style and freedom of expression was provided by 1960s fashion, which ranged from the crisp shapes of Mod jackets to the easygoing casualness of bell-bottom jeans and turtlenecks.
Discover the main components of 1960s menswear by reading on, where we’ll focus on major trends, significant personalities, and the long-lasting influence of the decade’s fashion breakthroughs on today’s fashion scene.
Important lessons learned
Men’s fashion saw a sea change in the 1960s with an unparalleled shift away from traditional trends and toward more colorful and expressive clothing. During this time, youth-driven subcultures became more widely recognized, as did the hippie, space, and Eastern cultures movements. Additionally, the casual movement gained momentum. All of these movements had a unique style that had a significant impact on mainstream fashion. The most significant change was the departure from a preconceived notion of a “uniform,” as both men and women began to dress more independently and creatively.
Men’s fashion saw a change from the precise, fitted suits of the early 1960s to the psychedelic patterns and casual attire that typified the late 1960s. The 1960s laid the groundwork for contemporary menswear since they also witnessed the emergence of powerful designers who questioned and altered clothing norms.
Men’s Fashion in the 1960s: A Synopsis
Men’s fashion saw a radical transformation in the 1960s, coinciding with the decade’s social and cultural upheavals. Men’s fashion in the early part of the decade was defined by a carryover of the sharp elegance of the 1950s; imagine well-tailored “Mad Men” look, slim-cut suits, and slender ties. This era was characterized by a polished yet conservative approach to menswear, with custom tailoring at its heart.
The British Invasion and the Mod movement emerged later in the decade, indicating a drive toward younger, more avant-garde looks. These influences separated men’s design from its conservative origins by introducing tighter fits, bolder colors, and unique patterns.
Driven by counterculture movements and a developing transoceanic music scene, the late 1960s deviated even more from traditionalism. Turtlenecks, bell bottoms, psychedelic designs, and a rise in denim usage highlighted a rising trend for comfortable, expressive apparel. This period stressed individualism and freedom of expression via fashion, not only challenging the status quo but also laying the foundation for the diversity and innovation that would define menswear in the future.
Our Best Men’s Fashion Essentials from the 1960s
Men’s fashion in the early 1960s tended to follow the 1950s trend of fitted, straight-cut suits, which were typified by their structured, streamlined forms, rounded jacket corners, and three-button fastenings. In order to project a crisp and professional image, these suits featured narrower lapels, a tight waist, and a modest taper through the legs. Wools, worsteds, and flannels in gray, blue, and black dominated the palette of fabrics, which were often conservative.
The British Mod culture had a growing influence on suit designs as the 1960s went on. More daring fashions were created during this time period, such as the famous Mod suit, which had tighter fitting lapels and a tendency to come in vivid colors or eye-catching patterns.
The suit had started to loosen by the late 1960s, both physically and symbolically. Suit styles have become more diverse as a result of the counterculture movement’s emphasis on individualism and rejection of conformity, which was fueled by a rise in thrift and second-hand store sales. This meant that many pieces from the men’s fashion of the 1930s, 1940s, and even the Edwardian era were being reinterpreted for men’s wardrobes.
With the growing dissatisfaction of young men towards the conventional “men’s uniform,” the peacock revolution started to gain momentum. In the name of uniqueness, this meant experimenting with wilder styles and frequently more feminine elements like lace and frills. Suits were worn in less formal ways, frequently with turtlenecks or even open-collared shirts for a touch of refinement mixed with informal flair. Materials like velvet and silk grew more popular.
Men’s shirt fashions witnessed a dramatic shift in the 1960s, evolving from the conventional dress shirts of the earlier years to genuinely wild and expressive forms.
At first, the decade maintained the trend toward dress shirts that were well-fitting and clean, frequently with conservative hues like white, light blue, and pale pink. These shirts went well with the fitted suits of the day when they were worn with slender ties. Standard features of the early 1960s shirts included single-button cuffs and pointed collars, emphasizing a polished and businesslike appearance.
A fresh generation of shirt styles was launched by mid-decade alterations. Among the younger, trend-forward set, high-end shirts featuring striking designs, contrasting collars, and French cuffs gained popularity. The Mod movement gave rise to a new interpretation of the shirt, as seen in the prevalence of button-down collars, polka dots, geometric, psychedelic, and striped designs.
A man’s casual wardrobe also began to include denim shirts and turtlenecks, which was a change from the more formal looks that had predominated earlier in the decade. These modifications highlighted a trend toward more free-spirited and expressive clothing, reflecting the general shift in society toward individualism and personal autonomy.
Three men strolling in 1960s suits
Men’s pants originated in the 1950s with a persistent love for fitted, form-fitting pants that complemented the streamlined silhouettes of early 1960s suits. These pants usually had a high waist, were composed of wool or wool blends, and tapered slightly at the hem to give the wearer a sleek and sophisticated appearance.
Men’s pants took on a sharper, more modern aesthetic with the rise of mod culture. The classic silhouette was given a contemporary touch with the inclusion of lower-rise trousers and even more pronounced slimmer cuts. Bolder hues and patterns became popularity, giving men’s wardrobes more variation in the form of checks, stripes, and even houndstooth patterns. In addition, the Mod movement advocated the use of colors that were bolder and less conventional, deviating from the normal neutral palette.
A notable trend toward more relaxed and expressive forms emerged in the late 1960s, greatly influenced by the counterculture movement. Flared pants and bell bottoms, which were frequently made of denim, corduroy, or other sturdy textiles, were iconic pieces of the time. Due to their striking flare from the knee down, these trousers came to represent the era’s rebelliousness and independence.
Men also had more laid-back options for daily wear with the advent of casual trousers and chinos, which were made famous by the ‘preppy movement and UK menswear of the 1920s, and let them break free from the rigid formality of bygone eras.
Pullovers & Knitwear
Men’s sweaters in the early 1960s were usually fitted and conservative; they were frequently layered to create a sophisticated yet cozy appearance over dress shirts and ties. Popular crew neck and v-neck versions were made of cashmere or fine wool and came in a variety of subdued hues, including burgundy, grey, and navy. These timeless items complemented the fitted suits and ironic shirts of the era, making them indispensable for the well-groomed man.
Men’s knitwear now features bolder designs, more vivid colors, and novel textures thanks to youth culture and the Mod trend. The turtleneck sweater emerged in the middle of the 1960s as a chic substitute for conventional collared shirts, representing a fusion of modernism and sophistication. Knitwear with geometric patterns and stripes also became popular during this time, providing a fun change from the more somber designs of the past.
Chunky roll-necks, cardigans, and cable knit sweaters became wardrobe mainstays; they were frequently made in vivid, psychedelic hues or rich, earthy tones. These items were not only cozy but also adaptable, going well with denim and the flared pants of the day to create a carefree yet stylish ensemble.
Additionally, new knitwear forms and textures were made possible by advancements in synthetic fibers, which increased the number of creative design possibilities.
coats and outerwear
Early 1960s men’s jacket trends were largely traditional, with timeless looks like the trench coat, the single-breasted overcoat, and the Harrington jacket ruling the roost. These items were made with practicality and adaptability in mind. They were frequently made in muted hues to go well with the period’s typical suits and formal attire.
Next came the classic parka, a mainstay of Mod design that provided warmth and a unique look when riding a scooter. Rock & roll culture also contributed to the continued popularity of leather jackets, which gave more polished Mod outfits a rugged edge. The bomber jacket, favored for its durability and informal look, also made the transfer from military wear to mainstream design.
Men’s outerwear had an explosion of variation in the late 1960s, which mirrored the era’s general tendency toward casualization and self-expression. Due to their timeless style and comfort, military coats such as the peacoat gained popularity, while fringe and suede jackets embraced the psychedelic and bohemian trends of the era.
The emergence of vivid hues, striking designs, and non-traditional materials like velvet and synthetic textiles challenged preconceived ideas about menswear.
During this time, the safari jacket also gained popularity. It was a practical yet adventurous piece of clothing that frequently had several pockets and a belt. Men’s outerwear options were even more diverse with the introduction of the safari jacket, which was inspired by military and outdoor apparel and symbolized the decade’s expanding interest in leisure and travel.
Men were still drawn to traditional shoe styles like brogues, loafers, and Oxford shoes during the start of the 1960s. These shoes, which were frequently made of leather and highly polished, went well with the fitted suits and formal clothing that dominated menswear in the early 1960s.
But with their streamlined appearance and elastic sides, Chelsea boots burst onto the scene in the middle of the 1960s. They provided a contemporary substitute for more traditional footwear options, and they soon came to be associated with the Mod aesthetic. The Cuban heel, which was a little higher than regular heels and gave flare, was frequently seen on both shoes and boots, indicating the era’s altering fashion tastes.
The counterculture movement brought about a more relaxed and varied approach to footwear by the mid to late 1960s. Due to its ease and adaptability, the desert boot has become increasingly popular, fitting well for both professional and informal attire. In addition, men’s fashion began to incorporate sandals and other open footwear for the first time due to the rise of the hippie movement, which emphasized a more laid-back lifestyle and a connection to nature.
1960s Men’s Formal Clothes
Men’s formal attire in the 1960s, especially in the early years of the decade, mostly followed the 1950s fashion trends, emphasizing sharp dress shirts, elegant suits, and modest accessories. The slender silhouette emphasized polished appearance and straight lines. The period’s original dedication to conventional formal attire is highlighted by the fact that black tie occasions still required the classic tuxedo, complete with a bow tie, cummerbund or waistcoat, and patent leather shoes.
But as the decade went on, formalwear started to feel the effects of young culture and the burgeoning counterculture. The rigid guidelines for formal attire saw a tiny easing in the middle of the 1960s. Velvet dinner jackets with striking patterns and even vivid colors started to be accepted at less formal gatherings, indicating an increasing trend toward fashion as a means of self-expression.
The formalwear scene was becoming more varied by the late 1960s, and there was a noticeable shift away from homogeneity and toward individualism. Wide lapels, patterned suits, and satin shirts were among the novel materials and colors that the psychedelic and hippie movements brought to formal wear. The distinction between formal and informal attire started to blur for the first time when formalwear started to incorporate more casual components like loafers in place of oxford shoes or turtleneck sweaters in place of dress shirts.
1960s Men’s Casual Clothes
The 1960s saw a dramatic shift in men’s fashion, which deviated greatly from the conservative and homogeneous looks of the previous decade. In the 1960s, wearing casual clothing became a means of expressing oneself and defying social standards.
Men’s casual wear during the start of the 1960s continued to have a conservative bent, with polo shirts, chinos, and slacks made primarily of cotton or lightweight wool. Wearing button-down oxford shirts, well-fitting crew neck sweaters, and polished loafers, the preppy, Ivy League look was popular.
By the mid-1960s, tighter polos, sleek mock turtlenecks, and—most importantly—the rise in popularity of jeans from workplace to a must-have piece of fashion transformed casualwear into a platform for audacious self-expression.
Men’s leisurewear has an explosion of color and pattern, and the introduction of synthetic textiles has given rise to new textures and designs for the casual wardrobe.
Then, in the later half of the 1960s, flared jeans, denim jackets, and tie-dye t-shirts came to represent a generation’s desire for social change and independence. A conscious attempt at mixing and matching different prints, fabrics, and inspirations resulted in ensembles that were as distinctive as they were eclectic throughout this period of fashion history.
Accessories for Men in the 1960s
In the 1960s, men’s accessories were essential components of identification and self-expression in addition to complementing the vibrant fashions of the time.
