1960s
1960s men’s fashion is iconic. The extraordinary decade saw many changes in how we view menswear. While many now associate the sixties with the contemporary show Mad Men and Jon Hamm’s character Don Draper, the era delivered many style moments. That’s not to say that men didn’t wear suits.
The conservative professional wore single-breasted sack jackets with two buttons, narrow-notch lapels, and a single vent back. Muted colors were customary for the classic American suit. Ivy league style became popular during the 1950s but truly excelled during the sixties.
1960s Ivy League Style
President John F. Kennedy championed the Ivy league look. Kennedy was a fan of the smart casual style. Plenty of photos featuring the president with simple pieces like a Shetland sweater and chinos.
People also attribute the decline of hats to Kennedy. While hats were already in less favor, people noticed that Kennedy didn’t wear a top hat for his inauguration.
The Ivy League aesthetic is rich with 1960s menswear clothing ideas. Other essentials ranged from knit polos and oxford shirts to tailored sports jackets. Another critical fashion trend is the 1960s British Mod style. British youth referenced the American Ivy league style. However, they blended it with flamboyant Italian fashions and classics from Hollywood stars like Steve McQueen.
1960s Mod Style
Modernists or Mods for short, these trendsetting men preferred slim-fit mohair suits with narrow pants. The Mods also wore polo shirts, oxford shirts, chinos, madras plaid shirts, and argyle socks. M51 US army parkas were also coveted items.
1960s Beatnik Style
1960s men’s fashion also saw the debut of Beatnik. The Beatnik Movement included creative individuals such as artists, writers, musicians, and poets. Beatnik’s style was minimal, typically dark, and propelled by icons like Bob Dylan and Andy Warhol. Essential items of Beatnik style range from the black turtleneck to a Breton t-shirt or slim-fit pants.
The Beginning of Hippy Style
Reflecting the changing times, the end of the sixties made way for hippy and flower power. Born out of opposition to the Vietnam War, the hippy movement was anti-establishment, anti-war, and anti-violence. Men embraced psychedelic patterns, bell-bottom pants, and longer hair.
Stars such as Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles became icons for the sixties hippy style. The Beatles were among the first to embrace hippy style with the release of Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. Printed scarves, velvet jackets, and frilly shirts became common. Eastern influences were also trendy, with kaftan jackets, Indian prints, and more.
