When the baby boom generation came of age during the 1960's, they set off a youthquake bigger than anyone had ever seen before. In a period of protests, antiwar demonstrations and conflicts, the world seemed to be stuck in constant chaos and who could blame them?! Although the decade began on a light note of progressiveness and optimism with the election of John F. Kennedy it soon took a turn when he was assassinated in 1963. As conflict in Vietnam escalated, America took part in race-riots that dominated the news broadcasting systems. Student revolts, the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and the cross-fertilization of eastern styles with western styles emerging, the 60's was a time full of major events!
In the midst of all this chaos, the youth of America took part in a movement that would live on for generations to come. Unlike any generation before, this decade expressed a more creative, accepting lifestyle. They influenced a movement that affected more than just social and cultural conditions but also fashion trends and developments.
Even though the beginning of the decade emphasized conservatism as women raced to copy First Lady Jackie Kennedy's suits and signature pill box hats, the decade progressed in much different way...
The most visible fashions of the 1960's were the most radical.
Shift dresses climbed high above the knee with the debut of Mary Quant's miniskirt in 1966.
Eastern influences also climbed their way into Western society as wild colors, psychedelic designs and paisley print patterns became popular. Those who gravitated towards this style were referred to as hippies.
Bell-bottom jeans were introduced as a new fashionable style during the decade. The hippie culture embraced the casual blue jean and would personalize their jeans with embroidery and patches.
These fashions that once dominated the 1960's continue to be prominent in the fashion industry today. Look around, I see babes rocking miniskirts, psychedelic patterns, and personalized jeans almost everywhere! The 1960's was a decade of many events. Events that would lead to radical change within fashion for many. It was also an important decade for fashion because it showed endurance despite the overwhelming conflicts in society at the time.
&& that is something I'm sure always will happen with fashion!
Also babes, don't toss out those wide-legged jeans or paisley free-flowing dresses because they will be back in trend sooner than later!
Peace out!
Stone, E. (2013). The Dynamics of Fashion: A Century of Fashion, The 1960's. New York, NY. Fairchild Books.
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