The 1960s was a revolutionary decade that forever changed the landscape of fashion. It was a time when style wasn’t just about clothes—it was about making a statement, pushing boundaries, and expressing individuality. And where better to witness this explosion of creativity than in the pages of the iconic 60’s fashion magazines? These publications were not only trendsetters but also cultural influencers, shaping the way people dressed, thought, and lived. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the vibrant world of 60’s fashion magazines.
The Rise of 60’s Fashion Magazines
The 1960s was a decade of change, and fashion magazines were at the forefront of this cultural shift. With the rise of youth culture, the fashion industry began to cater to a younger, more rebellious audience. Magazines like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Seventeen became the bibles of style, showcasing the latest trends and introducing readers to the faces and designers who would define the era.
Key Publications
- Vogue: Vogue was the epitome of high fashion. Under the leadership of Diana Vreeland, the magazine became a visual feast of bold photography and cutting-edge fashion. It wasn’t just about clothing; Vogue captured the spirit of the 60s—experimental, daring, and always ahead of the curve.
- Harper’s Bazaar: Known for its sophisticated take on fashion, Harper’s Bazaar was the go-to for the modern woman who wanted to stay stylish and informed. With contributions from legendary photographers like Richard Avedon, the magazine pushed the boundaries of fashion photography and design.
- Seventeen: Catering to the younger audience, Seventeen magazine was all about teenage style and culture. It highlighted the fun, youthful side of fashion, with a focus on affordable and accessible trends for the everyday girl.
- Elle: While Elle was originally a French publication, it quickly gained popularity worldwide, including in the U.S. Known for its chic and sometimes avant-garde content, Elle offered a European perspective on 60’s fashion, mixing high-end couture with street style.
- Queen: A British magazine that captured the quirky, eccentric side of 60s fashion. Queen was where you’d find the latest in mod fashion, as well as interviews with the icons of the swinging London scene.
Iconic 60’s Fashion Trends
The fashion trends of the 60s were as diverse as the decade itself. From mod to bohemian, every style was a reflection of the social and political changes of the time. Magazines played a crucial role in popularizing these trends, bringing them from the runway to the streets.
Mod Fashion
The mod movement, originating in London, was characterized by its sleek, futuristic look. Think mini skirts, geometric patterns, and bold colors. Twiggy, with her pixie cut and doe-eyed look, became the poster girl for this trend, and magazines like Queen and Vogue couldn’t get enough of her.
- Mini Skirts: Perhaps the most iconic fashion piece of the 60s, the mini skirt was popularized by British designer Mary Quant. It was a symbol of liberation, reflecting the newfound freedom and confidence of women.
- Shift Dresses: Simple, sleeveless dresses with clean lines were a staple of mod fashion. These were often seen in bright, eye-catching colors or graphic black and white.
Bohemian Style
On the other end of the spectrum was the bohemian style, which drew inspiration from the counterculture movement. This style was all about free-spiritedness, with flowing fabrics, ethnic prints, and a more relaxed silhouette.
- Peasant Blouses: Loose-fitting blouses with intricate embroidery were a key element of bohemian fashion, often paired with flared jeans or maxi skirts.
- Maxi Dresses: Long, flowing dresses made from lightweight fabrics became popular among the bohemian crowd, symbolizing a return to nature and simplicity.
Fashion Icons of the 60’s
Fashion magazines of the 60s didn’t just showcase clothes; they introduced the world to a new generation of style icons whose influence is still felt today.
Twiggy
Lesley Lawson, known professionally as Twiggy, was the face of 60s fashion. With her boyish figure, short hair, and oversized eyes, she represented the new wave of youth culture. Twiggy’s androgynous look was revolutionary, breaking away from the curvier, more glamorous figures of the previous decade.
Audrey Hepburn
While the 60s were about breaking the mold, Audrey Hepburn maintained her status as a timeless fashion icon. Her elegant, minimalist style, epitomized in movies like Breakfast at Tiffany’s, was a constant feature in magazines like Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue.
Jackie Kennedy
First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy was the epitome of grace and sophistication. Her chic, tailored suits, pillbox hats, and oversized sunglasses became her signature look, often emulated by women around the world. Fashion magazines adored her, and she often graced their covers, setting trends that defined the decade.
The Role of Photography in 60’s Fashion Magazines
The 60s was a golden era for fashion photography. It was a time when photographers became just as famous as the models they shot. Magazines relied heavily on visual storytelling, and the photographs from this era remain some of the most iconic in fashion history.
Richard Avedon
One of the most influential photographers of the 60s, Richard Avedon’s work was synonymous with Harper’s Bazaar. His photographs were known for their movement and energy, capturing the spirit of the times. Avedon’s work often blurred the lines between fashion and art, making him a favorite among the leading fashion magazines.
David Bailey
David Bailey, a British photographer, was instrumental in capturing the essence of the swinging 60s. His work for Vogue and other magazines often featured the leading figures of the time, from models like Jean Shrimpton to musicians like The Beatles.
Irving Penn
Another legendary name in fashion photography, Irving Penn’s work was a staple in Vogue. Known for his minimalist style, Penn’s photographs were timeless and elegant, often focusing on the beauty and simplicity of the subject.
How 60’s Fashion Magazines Shaped Modern Fashion
The impact of 60’s fashion magazines is still evident in today’s fashion industry. The trends, photography, and icons from this era continue to influence designers, stylists, and photographers.
Revival of 60s Trends
Many fashion trends from the 60s have made a comeback in recent years. The mini skirt, for instance, is a staple in modern fashion, often reimagined in new fabrics and styles. Similarly, the shift dress has seen a resurgence, with designers drawing inspiration from the clean lines and bold colors of the 60s.
Influence on Modern Fashion Magazines
Today’s fashion magazines owe much to their 60s predecessors. The focus on youth culture, the use of bold, artistic photography, and the celebration of individuality—all these elements have their roots in the 60s. Modern magazines continue to draw inspiration from this era, whether through retro-themed editorials or features on 60s fashion icons.
FAQs
What were the most popular fashion magazines of the 60s?
Some of the most popular fashion magazines of the 60s included Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Seventeen, Elle, and Queen.
How did 60s fashion magazines influence the fashion industry?
60s fashion magazines were instrumental in shaping trends, introducing new designers, and promoting a more youthful and rebellious style. They played a crucial role in the democratization of fashion, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
Who were the key fashion icons featured in 60s fashion magazines?
Twiggy, Audrey Hepburn, and Jackie Kennedy were among the key fashion icons featured in 60s fashion magazines. These women not only influenced fashion but also became symbols of the era.
What were the defining trends of 60s fashion?
The defining trends of 60s fashion included mod fashion, characterized by mini skirts and shift dresses, and bohemian style, with its flowing fabrics and ethnic prints.
How did photography shape the content of 60s fashion magazines?
Photography was central to 60s fashion magazines, with iconic photographers like Richard Avedon, David Bailey, and Irving Penn creating images that defined the era. Their work brought a new level of artistry to fashion photography, making it an integral part of the magazine experience.
Summary
The 1960s was a decade of transformation, and fashion magazines were at the heart of this cultural shift. These publications not only showcased the latest trends but also shaped the very nature of fashion, introducing new ideas, icons, and styles that continue to influence the industry today. From the sleek lines of mod fashion to the free-spirited bohemian style, 60s fashion magazines captured the essence of an era that was as bold and vibrant as the clothes it celebrated.
Authoritative Links
This article delves into the rich history and enduring influence of 60s fashion magazines, offering readers a comprehensive look at how these publications shaped the fashion landscape of their time and beyond.