The miniskirt made its debut in the 1960s.
The 1960s were marked by a great diversity of style in North America and Western Europe. Updates of classic styles became popular. Daring fads emerged on both the streets and the runways. A wide range of materials and colors were available. This meant fashionable clothing styles could be anything from a simple dress to an extravagant fur coat, depending on a wearer's budget and preferences. This diversity of fashion allowed for a lot of creative expression.
Shift or A-Line Dresses
Popular in the 1960s was the shift or A-line dress, a simple outfit that came in a variety of bold colors and fabrics. Shift dresses had designs in both solids and prints and the hem fell anywhere between the thigh and the knee. These dresses exemplified the newer relaxed shaping and de-emphasis on the waist that became an accepted aspect of 1960s style.
European Fashion
In the early 1960s Yves Saint Laurent created a beatnik style collection featuring knit turtlenecks and black leather turtlenecks. In Paris and Rome skirts were very short and the "bubble" skirt became popular with designers. Designer collections from these cities also introduced wide collars and high pointed hats. This avant-garde fashion and the bold statements it made popped up in some areas and among some groups in the United States.
Fur
High-end customers in the 1960s became fond of fur. This luxury item lined, trimmed and accessorized fancy and expensive clothing. Fur turbans wrapped the heads of the most stylish and elegant. Sophisticated and pricey alligator purses became a status symbol. Though mink and leopard furs made opulent accessories, it was the long haired furs like fox, fisher and sable that women considered particularly elegant and coveted.
Fashion Fads
Daring fashion fads of the 1960s included hot pants and miniskirts. Period fashionistas wore both styles very short. Space age vinyl and synthetic fabrics were also popular. Mod fashion came of age in London. Bold colors and prints marked this style. Mod-style prints included geometric patterns, large flower and Art Nouveau inspired prints. Also fashionable in the 1960s was the "preppie" style, which included mohair sweaters, plaid fabrics and classic A-line skirts.
