The 1960s was a decade of bold changes, from music to politics to, of course, fashion. While we often think of mini skirts and mod looks, women in the ’60s also had to contend with chilly weather – and they did so with style! Whether they were heading out to work or enjoying a weekend shopping trip, winter fashion in the 1960s needed to be the perfect blend of cosy and chic.
Early 1960s: Tailored and Timeless
At the beginning of the 1960s, fashion was still heavily influenced by the ladylike elegance of the 1950s. Think Jacqueline Kennedy’s classic style – refined, polished, and oh-so-put-together. Winter coats in the early part of the decade often followed this tailored, feminine look. Women would bundle up in wool coats that featured structured silhouettes, cinched waists, and large buttons. These coats, typically in soft neutral tones like camel, navy, and black, were designed to keep you warm while looking effortlessly sophisticated.
For extra warmth, women paired their coats with chic accessories. Wool berets, knit scarves, and leather gloves in coordinating colours were popular. And for footwear? Heeled boots, often made with leather or suede, were stylish yet practical for navigating wintry sidewalks.
Mid-1960s: The Rise of Mod
By the mid-60s, the world of fashion had taken a sharp turn towards the fun and daring, thanks to the mod movement. This shift brought bright colours, bold patterns, and shorter hemlines into women’s wardrobes, and winter fashion was no exception. Coats became less structured and more playful, often featuring geometric designs or colour-blocking.
Wool and tweed were still the go-to fabrics for winter coats, but the shapes were changing. Boxy, A-line cuts allowed for more freedom of movement, giving women a more modern, youthful look. Some coats even came with oversized collars or large, decorative buttons that added a bit of whimsy.
To complete the mod winter look, women wore knee-high boots, which were especially popular after the introduction of the mini skirt. These boots had block heels and were made with patent leather, giving a futuristic edge. To keep warm, coloured tights were a must and came in every colour of the rainbow. Brightly coloured or patterned tights added even more fun to any winter ensemble.
Late 1960s: Bohemian Vibes
As the decade came to a close, the fashion world started to embrace the laid-back, free-spirited ethos of the late 60s. The winter coats and accessories from this time reflected the swift towards a more bohemian, natural aesthetic. Women opted for longer, looser coats that had a more unstructured feel. Fringe, fur trim and embroidery became popular embellishments on outerwear.
Earth tones like olive green, burnt orange, and brown began to dominate the winter palette, and layering became a key part of their look. Underneath their coats, women would wear thick turtleneck sweaters, maxi skirts or wide-legged trousers to keep warm. Ponchos, capes, and shawls also became popular for extra warmth, and adding a cosy, boho chic vibe.
Footwear also took on a more relaxed feel. Flat, suede boots replaced the sleek, high-heeled styles of earlier years, creating a more carefree look. Paired with patterned scarves, oversized sunglasses, and floppy hats, the late 1960s winter wardrobe embraced individuality and personal expression.
Winter fashion in the 1960s was about embracing practicality and style. Whether you preferred the classic elegance of the early 60s, or the bold, expressive styles of the mod and bohemian movements, there is something for everyone during those chilly months.
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