The 1960s are a unique decade for style and fashions that are still copied today both in everyday wear and in fun costumes for parties and Halloween occasions. This decade revives the vibrant colors and free style of its historical movements like the Civil Rights Movement and its pop culture ideals. From Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’s colorful costumes to 60s fancy dress costumes, this era was one of radical change and dress that are still widely popular even half a century later.
When considering what to wear to a 60s-themed party or Halloween event, there are a few different angles to consider. The early 60s style is obviously closer to that of the 1950s.
The music styles were still being influenced by American legends like Elvis Presley and Bill Hayley’s Comets. These styles will have more of the traditional tailored suits for men, slicked back hair, and easy disposition. Women in the earlier part of the decade modeled 60s fancy dress costumes with tight bodices and full A-line skirts, or maybe the more racy versions known as bombshell dresses in colorful, tropical prints. Hairstyles were still done in the popular beehive, up-do style.
As the decade progressed, pop culture switched more into the British rock scene, led mostly by The Beatles. The Fab Four always enjoyed creating unique costumes of their own that matched their albums’ themes, and this could be a great source of inspiration for 60s themed costumes today. As the Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum, the elements of freedom of speech and of expression were also becoming more expressed in clothing. Women began wearing free-flowing skirts and long-sleeved blouses. The late 60s look very similar in style to the 70s with long hair on both men and women, worn down or with a simple headband or flowers. This was the age of the hippies, whose style originated from an earthy sense of being one with nature and being at peace in their own skin.
Thus, whether early or late 60s, these costumes offer a wide range of creative options for any party or occasion.
