1960s fashion for kids

Boys' Clothing

Cool! School Fashions Have Touch of '60s

Boys' fashion in the 1960s was heavily influenced by the popular music and television shows of the era. The Beatles, with their mop-top haircuts and colorful suits, were major style icons for young boys. Other popular trends included striped shirts, bell-bottom jeans, and loafers. Boys also began to wear their hair longer, often in a style known as the "Beatles cut." Overall, the fashion of the 1960s was all about individuality and self-expression, and boys' clothing reflected this trend with its bright colors and bold patterns.

Girls' Clothing

1950s Teen Boys' Clothing

For girls, the 1960s were a time of change and experimentation in fashion. The decade saw the rise of the mini skirt, which was both playful and rebellious. Other popular styles for girls included brightly colored shift dresses, A-line skirts, and ruffled blouses. Plaid and gingham were also popular patterns, and girls often wore knee-high socks or tights with their outfits. Accessories such as headbands, scarves, and belts were also essential for completing a 1960s girl's look.

Key Trends

Public school boys 1960s hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy

The 1960s witnessed a radical shift in children's fashion, mirroring the broader cultural changes of the era. Vibrant colors, bold patterns, and a playful spirit defined the decade's trends. Mini skirts, go-go boots, and A-line dresses became staples for girls, while boys embraced bell-bottom jeans, colorful shirts, and sneakers. Overall, the fashion of the 1960s celebrated individuality and experimentation, encouraging kids to express their unique styles with confidence.

Colors and Patterns

1960s Fashion Trends - Iconic '60s Trends We Still Love Today

The 1960s saw a vibrant explosion of colors and patterns in children's fashion. Bold hues like orange, yellow, blue, and green became popular, often combined in eye-catching geometric prints. Paisley, polka dots, and stripes were also prevalent, adding playful touches to clothing. These colorful and lively patterns reflected the optimistic and carefree spirit of the decade, allowing children to express their individuality and embrace the era's vibrant aesthetic.

Fabrics and Textures

60s Adorable Girls Dress Pattern Simplicity 8525 Vintage Sewing

Fabrics used in 1960s kids' fashion often featured bold patterns and bright colors. Popular choices included cotton, corduroy, denim, and synthetic materials like nylon and polyester. These fabrics were durable and comfortable, perfect for active children. Corduroy was especially popular for pants and jackets, while denim was used for jeans and overalls. Synthetic materials were often used for dresses and shirts, as they were wrinkle-resistant and easy to care for.

Accessories

Magazine Modèles Lilliput Children Fashion 1973 Original

Accessories played a vital role in completing the overall style of '60s kids. Bright and colorful headbands, oversized sunglasses with tinted lenses, and wide belts cinching the waist were all the rage. Beaded necklaces, bracelets, and earrings added a touch of bohemian flair, while knee-high socks and tights in bold hues kept kids warm and stylish. Bucket hats and berets were popular choices for headwear, offering protection from the sun or a dash of Parisian chic.

Influences

1960s Fashion Model In White Gloves With Show Cars Kids T-Shirt by

The 1960s marked a transformative era in children's fashion, inspired by pivotal cultural shifts. The rise of television, space exploration, and youth-oriented music propelled bold and innovative styles. Mod culture, with its geometric patterns, miniskirts, and iconic Twiggy look, heavily influenced kids' fashion. The Space Race ignited a fascination with futuristic themes, leading to space-age suits and metallic fabrics. Rock and roll bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones sparked a trend for long hair, flared pants, and graphic T-shirts. These diverse influences combined to create a unique and groundbreaking aesthetic for young people in the 1960s.

Legacy

Childrens Fashion - children off the 60s

The 1960s fashion for kids had a lasting impact on the fashion industry. The emphasis on individuality and creativity inspired designers to create more playful and experimental clothing for children. The decade also saw the rise of the youth culture, which led to the popularity of trendy styles such as mini skirts, bell-bottom jeans, and tie-dye shirts. These trends have continued to influence children's fashion to this day, and many of the iconic pieces from the 1960s can still be found in stores today.