Jace Lamonica
Fashion in the ’60s came with a strict set of dos and don’ts that shaped everyday style. What once seemed like unbreakable rules now feel oddly unnecessary, if not downright bizarre. Some of these expectations faded with time, while others were tossed aside as fashion evolved. Looking back, it’s hard not to wonder how people followed them so seriously. Ready to step into the past and see what fashion once dictated?
Suits Were Reserved Only For Men
In the ’60s, suits symbolized masculine authority, with women expected to wear dresses or skirts for professional and formal settings. However, women’s fashion evolved during the ’60s, slowly incorporating suits and pantsuits. Now, women confidently rock tailored suits for all occasions.
Women Had To Wear Stockings Every Day
Stockings were considered essential for women’s attire during the ’60s, as many deemed them necessary for professional and public appearances. As feminism gained momentum and a shift toward comfort occurred, stockings gradually became optional by the ’70s, opening the door for modern alternatives like tights or bare legs.
Hats Were Mandatory For Formal Outings
In the early ’60s, hats were indeed considered essential accessories for formal occasions. Women often wore elegant hats to church and social gatherings events. This practice continued the refined fashion of the ’50s, exemplified by style icons like Jackie Kennedy, who frequently donned pillbox hats.
Jeans Were Not Considered Professional Attire
Would you believe that jeans were once considered strictly casual wear, only suitable for the weekend or informal settings? Fast forward to today, and jeans are everywhere, rocking stylish cuts and washes in professional environments while offering comfort without sacrificing a polished, sophisticated look.
Matching Your Handbag With Your Shoes Was Essential
Fashion rules have relaxed, and bold combinations or mismatched accessories are widely embraced as reflecting creative expression. However, back then, pairing your handbag with your shoes was seen as a symbol of sophistication. The idea was that accessories should harmonize with the rest of your ensemble to showcase elegance and attention to detail.
Heels Were Required for Respectability
During the ’60s, high heels were commonly associated with women’s polished and respectable appearance. Flat shoes were generally considered too casual for public outings. However, the decade also saw the rise of more comfortable footwear options, such as low-heeled sandals and kitten-heeled pumps.
White Was Strictly For Summer
The “no white after Labor Day” rule was a widely accepted fashion guideline during the mid-20th century, including the ’60s. This rule dictated that white clothing was appropriate only during the summer months, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The origin of this custom is linked to practicality and social class distinctions.
No Mixing Gold And Silver Jewelry
In the ’60s, mixing gold and silver jewelry was a major no-no, and matching sets were the only way to go! Now, the fashion world has tossed that rule aside. Combining metals like gold, silver, and even rose gold is trendy and allows for endless combinations. Whether stacked rings or mismatched earrings, the styles encourage mixing them for a bold look.
Gloves Were A Daily Accessory
Gloves were a standard part of women’s attire for formal outings and social events in the early ’60s. They symbolized elegance and were often paired with dresses and hats to complete a polished look. Over time, the use of gloves in daily fashion diminished, and they are now primarily reserved for specific formal occasions or practical purposes.
Flared Pants Were A Sign Of Rebellion
flared pants were considered rebellious during the ’60s, particularly as they were associated with counterculture movements. But now flares have made a fashionable comeback. They’re a classic style staple, embraced by high fashion and casual wear. Plus, they have evolved in design with various fits and fabrics.
