1. Nehru Jackets
Nehru jackets were a surprising blend of traditional Eastern attire and Western fashion. Named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, these collarless, tailored jackets became a global trend in the late ’60s. With their straight, streamlined design, they were a stark departure from the lapelled blazers and sport coats typically worn by men. Musicians like The Beatles and The Monkees helped popularize the look, lending it a bohemian edge.
Despite their sleek appearance, Nehru jackets often felt out of place in Western wardrobes. They were sometimes seen as too formal for casual settings but not quite appropriate for black-tie events. While the trend didn’t last long, it left a lasting impression on the fashion world. Today, Nehru jackets are mostly associated with vintage style or cultural attire, making their brief moment of “mainstream” fashion all the more fascinating. Source.
2. Go-Go Boots
Go-go boots were the epitome of ’60s mod fashion, but looking back, they were a little wild. Usually white and made of shiny vinyl, these boots often reached just below the knee and featured low, square heels. They were paired with equally bold outfits, like micro-miniskirts and geometric-patterned dresses. The stark white color made them stand out even more, almost like they belonged in a futuristic sci-fi movie rather than on city streets. Nancy Sinatra’s song “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’” only added to their iconic status, making go-go boots a must-have for every trendsetter.
Despite their popularity, they weren’t the most practical footwear. The vinyl material could be stiff and uncomfortable, especially if worn for long periods. Still, women of the era embraced them as a statement of liberation and fun. Go-go boots captured the youthful, rebellious spirit of the ’60s, even if they raised a few eyebrows among the older generation. Today, they’re seen as a quirky relic of the past, but they still make the occasional comeback in retro-inspired fashion. Source.
3. Paper Dresses
Paper dresses were exactly what they sound like—dresses made of disposable paper. These quirky creations became a short-lived trend in the mid-’60s, largely thanks to their novelty and affordability. Advertised as “fashion you could throw away,” they often featured bright, psychedelic prints or pop art-inspired designs. The idea was that you could wear them to a party and simply toss them out afterward, which felt modern and carefree.
While innovative, paper dresses had their downsides. They were incredibly flimsy and prone to tearing, which made them more of a gimmick than a practical wardrobe staple. Additionally, they weren’t exactly eco-friendly, though that wasn’t a major concern at the time. Despite their impracticality, paper dresses perfectly captured the experimental and whimsical spirit of the ’60s. They’re now considered collectible artifacts of the decade’s fashion-forward mindset. Source.
4. Psychedelic Tights
Tights in the ’60s weren’t just a practical accessory—they were a canvas for wild, psychedelic patterns. Swirls, stripes, and bold florals in neon hues were common sights on legs everywhere. These tights added an extra layer of whimsy to the already colorful outfits of the decade. Often paired with mini dresses or skirts, they turned legs into works of art, making a strong statement in an era of self-expression.
However, not everyone was on board with this bold trend. Many found the patterns dizzying or even garish, while others loved the opportunity to stand out. Psychedelic tights weren’t for the faint of heart, but they epitomized the anything-goes attitude of the ’60s. Looking back, it’s hard to imagine a time when legwear was this adventurous, but it’s also a reminder of how fun and fearless fashion can be.
5. Space-Age Helmets
The 1960s saw a fascination with space exploration, and this extended into fashion with space-age helmets. Designers like Pierre Cardin and André Courrèges incorporated futuristic elements into their collections, and these helmets were often part of the look. Made of plastic or metallic materials, they resembled astronaut gear and were sometimes worn with matching metallic dresses. It was as if women were preparing for a stylish voyage to the moon.
While undeniably eye-catching, these helmets were far from practical. They could be hot, heavy, and downright uncomfortable. Still, they symbolized the era’s optimism and excitement about the future. Space-age helmets are a perfect example of how the ’60s pushed the boundaries of fashion, even if the results weren’t always wearable. Today, they’re remembered as a quirky and imaginative aspect of the decade’s style.
6. Unisex Jumpsuits
Jumpsuits became a staple in ’60s fashion, especially in unisex designs that blurred traditional gender lines. These all-in-one outfits were often made of bold fabrics and featured geometric cuts. Celebrities like David Bowie embraced the trend, giving it an androgynous, futuristic vibe. The jumpsuit’s appeal lay in its simplicity—just zip it up, and you were ready to go.
However, jumpsuits had their challenges. Bathroom breaks, for instance, were notoriously inconvenient. Additionally, not everyone appreciated the androgynous look, as it deviated from conventional ideas of femininity and masculinity. Still, the unisex jumpsuit was a bold step toward more inclusive and experimental fashion. Its legacy lives on in today’s fashion-forward designs, proving that some ideas were just ahead of their time.
7. Fishnet Dresses
Fishnet dresses were a daring and unconventional choice in the ’60s, often worn over bright bodysuits or bikinis. Made entirely of open-weave netting, they left little to the imagination and were a favorite among the counterculture crowd. These dresses were often accessorized with oversized jewelry and bold makeup, making them a striking statement.
While they certainly turned heads, fishnet dresses were not for the modest. They were often criticized for being too revealing or impractical for everyday wear. Despite the controversy, they represented the freedom and rebellion of the ’60s fashion scene. Today, fishnet dresses are a reminder of the decade’s daring approach to style and self-expression.
8. Plastic Raincoats
Plastic raincoats were a unique blend of practicality and avant-garde fashion. Often transparent or brightly colored, they added a futuristic touch to rainy-day wear. Designers like Pierre Cardin embraced the material, turning what was typically a utilitarian garment into a high-fashion statement. These raincoats often featured bold trims and mod-inspired cuts, making them stand out in a sea of traditional outerwear.
However, plastic raincoats weren’t the most comfortable. They could be stiff, noisy, and prone to trapping heat, which made them less than ideal for extended wear. Still, they captured the playful and experimental spirit of the ’60s. Even today, their influence can be seen in modern rainwear designs, proving that sometimes, fashion is about having fun with the unexpected.
9. Mop-Top Wigs
Inspired by The Beatles’ iconic hairstyle, mop-top wigs became a surprising trend in the ’60s. These wigs featured straight, chin-length hair with bangs and were worn by fans eager to emulate their favorite band. While initially more popular among men, some women also embraced the look, pairing the wigs with mod dresses and knee-high boots.
Mop-top wigs were undeniably playful but also a bit bizarre. Wearing a wig to mimic a celebrity’s hairstyle felt both endearing and over-the-top. Despite their novelty, they highlighted the massive cultural influence of The Beatles and the way music and fashion intersected during the decade. Mop-top wigs may have been a short-lived trend, but they perfectly encapsulated the fandom and fun of the era.
10. Tie-Dye Everything
Tie-dye was more than a trend in the ’60s—it was a symbol of the counterculture movement. From t-shirts to dresses, the vibrant, swirling patterns became synonymous with hippie fashion. Tie-dye was often homemade, with people using buckets of dye to create their own unique designs. This DIY approach made it accessible to everyone, regardless of budget.
While undeniably colorful, tie-dye wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Some found the patterns chaotic or unrefined, and they didn’t always translate well to formal settings. Still, tie-dye represented freedom, creativity, and individuality. Decades later, it’s still a popular choice for casual wear, proving that some “bizarre” trends can stand the test of time.
11. Micro-Minis
Micro-miniskirts were a bold and shocking innovation in ’60s fashion. Designed to hit well above the knee, they left little to the imagination and sparked plenty of controversy. Mary Quant, a British designer, is often credited with popularizing the mini, making it a staple of mod style. Worn with tights, boots, or flats, micro-minis embodied the youthful, rebellious energy of the decade.
Despite their popularity, they weren’t the most practical choice. Sitting, bending, or doing anything remotely active required some strategic maneuvering. Still, micro-minis were a powerful statement of liberation and empowerment. They remain one of the most iconic and influential fashion trends of the ’60s.
12. Oversized Sunglasses
Oversized sunglasses were a must-have accessory in the ’60s, often featuring bold frames and tinted lenses. Jackie Kennedy Onassis helped popularize the trend, cementing its status as a symbol of glamour and sophistication. These sunglasses came in a variety of shapes, from round to square, and were often paired with equally dramatic outfits.
While undeniably chic, oversized sunglasses sometimes veered into comical territory. Frames could be so large they overwhelmed the wearer’s face, making them look more like a cartoon character than a fashion icon. Despite this, they were a fun and memorable part of ’60s style. Today, they’re still a go-to accessory for anyone looking to channel retro elegance.