The 1960s were years of increasingly rapid transition. Changing music and media, political upheavals, and growing social movements were reflected in individual styles of Americans. Bold patterns, colors, and textures were used as forms of self-expression.

The “British Invasion” defined popular culture and style. Bands like The Beatles brought the slim-cut collared shirts and trousers of the Modernist, or “Mod,” fad to the United States. British designers experimented with shorter hemlines leading to the invention of the mini-skirt. Go-go boots and tunic dresses were popular.

After the election of John F. Kennedy, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy quickly became a fashion icon. Her feminine, tailored skirt suits, and pillbox hats brought refined simplicity to the mainstream.

As the decade progressed, the flowing lines of the “hippie” look replaced Mod styles. Bell-bottomed jeans, tie-dyed shirts, ponchos, and bare feet were in. The multi-cultural inspiration for these looks meant there were countless ways to wear them.