1960s men’s fashion: bold, experimental, and iconic

The 1960s was a decade of radical change, and that shift was reflected in men’s fashion. This era saw a move away from the conservatism of the 1950s, with bold colors, experimental designs, and a more relaxed, youthful approach to style. Influenced by the cultural revolutions of the time, from the Mod movement to the rise of hippie culture, the 1960s offered a wide variety of fashion statements that continue to inspire today. Here’s a guide to 1960s men’s fashion and its defining trends.

Suits: slim, sharp, and mod-inspired

The early 1960s embraced slim tailoring, particularly with the rise of the Mod movement in the UK. Suits were typically single-breasted, with narrow lapels, shorter jackets, and tapered trousers. Colors were often muted, but bold accents like skinny ties added a fresh, youthful edge to the look.

• Key features: Slim-fitting jackets, narrow lapels, tapered trousers, and skinny ties.
• Tip: For a classic 1960s Mod-inspired look, go for a slim, well-tailored suit in neutral colors like navy or charcoal, paired with a crisp white shirt and a skinny tie.
• Popular fabrics: Wool, tweed, and mohair.

Trousers: fitted and stylish

Trousers in the 1960s were slim and tapered, following the trend of sleek, minimalist fashion. High-waisted pants with flat fronts were common, often paired with dress shoes or Chelsea boots. Later in the decade, as the fashion became more experimental, flared trousers began to make an appearance, especially with the rise of counterculture movements.

• Tip: For an authentic 1960s look, choose slim-fitting, high-waisted trousers for a clean, sharp silhouette.

Casual wear: from rock ‘n’ roll to the counterculture

The 1960s was also a decade of bold casual wear. The influence of rock ‘n’ roll stars and countercultural icons brought more expressive, colorful styles into men’s wardrobes. Polo shirts, turtlenecks, and slim-fit button-downs were popular. The rise of denim jeans, often paired with leather jackets or suede coats, signified a shift toward casual, youthful fashion. By the late 1960s, bohemian and psychedelic patterns had taken over, with paisley prints and colorful shirts becoming symbols of the hippie movement.

• Popular casual pieces: Turtlenecks, polo shirts, denim jeans, leather jackets, paisley shirts.
• Tip: To capture the casual 1960s look, pair slim-fit jeans or trousers with a turtleneck or patterned shirt for a relaxed yet stylish vibe.

Shirts and ties: bold patterns and textures

While dress shirts were still a staple, the 1960s saw the introduction of bolder patterns and vibrant colors, particularly in casual styles. Button-down shirts in bright hues or with geometric and paisley patterns became iconic of the time. Ties also began to move away from the conservative styles of the 1950s, with wider ties featuring bold designs, especially later in the decade.

• Tip: Incorporate a bright or patterned button-down shirt into your wardrobe for a pop of 1960s flair, or try a bold patterned tie for formal occasions.
• Popular patterns: Paisley, stripes, and geometric designs.

Outerwear: statement coats and jackets

Outerwear in the 1960s was influenced by both Mod and counterculture fashion. Trench coats and slim-fitting overcoats remained popular for formalwear, while more adventurous options like suede jackets, pea coats, and military-inspired styles became common for casual outfits. The leather jacket, thanks to rock ‘n’ roll icons, continued to be a popular casual option.

• Popular styles: Trench coats, suede jackets, pea coats, and leather jackets.
• Tip: A well-fitted trench coat or suede jacket can instantly elevate your 1960s-inspired look.

Footwear: sharp and stylish

Footwear in the 1960s followed the trends of sharp, minimalist design. For formal occasions, polished leather shoes like Oxfords or loafers were still the go-to option. However, the rise of the Mod movement brought about the popularity of the Chelsea boot, which became a key part of the 1960s style, adding a sleek, stylish edge to both casual and formal outfits.

• Tip: A pair of Chelsea boots is the ultimate 1960s footwear option, offering versatility and style. Loafers and polished leather Oxfords are also great for a more formal look.
• Popular styles: Chelsea boots, loafers, Oxfords, and sneakers for casual wear.

Accessories: finishing touches of 1960s style

Accessories in the 1960s were a mix of bold, expressive pieces and minimalist designs. Slim ties, sunglasses, and scarves were common in both casual and formal looks. The Mod style often included narrow ties and sleek sunglasses, while the more flamboyant side of 1960s fashion embraced colorful scarves and larger accessories.

• Popular accessories: Slim ties, scarves, sunglasses.
• Tip: Add a pair of sleek sunglasses or a slim tie to channel that sharp 1960s Mod vibe, or go bold with a colorful scarf for a more expressive look.

Hairstyles and grooming: clean cuts and rebellion

Men’s hairstyles in the 1960s varied from the clean-cut, polished styles of the early decade to more relaxed and rebellious looks later on. Early in the 1960s, slicked-back hair and side parts were popular, often achieved with pomade for a sleek finish. As the decade progressed, longer hair became a symbol of the countercultural movement, with shaggy styles and longer sideburns becoming common among younger men. The Beatles’ mop-top haircut became one of the defining styles of the era.

• Tip: For an early 1960s look, stick with a neat, slicked-back style or side part. For a later, more rebellious style, opt for longer hair with a natural, shaggy finish.
• Popular grooming styles: Slicked-back hair, mop-tops, and sideburns.

Final thoughts

The 1960s was a time of experimentation, bold fashion statements, and cultural change. From the sharp, tailored Mod styles to the colorful, expressive trends of the hippie movement, men’s fashion during this decade was all about pushing boundaries. Whether you’re inspired by the sleek sophistication of Mod suits or the free-spirited nature of 1960s casual wear, this era offers plenty of iconic styles to incorporate into your modern wardrobe.