15 Trends from the 1960s That Are Still Everywhere in Fashion

Shiny, second-skin materials for summer are on the rise, what with the release of Kim Kardashian's metallic Skims swim collection. Popular among the European style-set during the '60s, it's showing up in the form of warm-weather activewear like playsuits and biker shorts, as well as an assortment of cropped tops and leggings from Commando that can just as easily be dressed up for a night out as they can be worn off-duty.

If you look at the handbag trends that were making rounds during the 1960s, there were only a few really dominating the scene. Among them are structured styles with rounded top handles and a distinct pocket-book appearance. Names like ByFar and Self Portrait are keeping the silhouette in modern day–the latter's Bow bag is particularly popular among the likes of Chloë Sevigny and Naomi Campbell, who was the face of its cleverly titled 'Bow is mine' campaign.

Anyone keeping up with current trends knows that sheer fabrics are having a major moment. Showing up on the market in the form of maxi-length gowns and going-out tops, see-through fabric is perfect for layering or showing off pretty lingerie. Emerging label Nensi Dojaka has its fair share of takes that have attracted style muses like Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber, while Saint Laurent offers more classic options that will transcend seasons and trends with ease.

Shiny round pailettes are about to be everywhere in the next six months, with the Resort 23 collections as proof. Brands like Markarian and Jonathan Simkhai are putting their own spin on the '60s-inspired trend, more commonly seen on The Supremes and Twiggy, with coordinating sets and embellished party dresses. To make it feel more modern, consider opting for a micro mini skirt with a T-shirt, a lá buzzy label Danielle Guizio.

Channel Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon circa the late 1960s by opting into fashion's current penchant for motorsport-style sunglasses. Sleek with a shield-like silhouette, the acetate options have been reinterpreted by trendy accessories brand Poppy Lissiman. Meanwhile, Prada Sport brought back their own tried-and-true styles from previous collections. The key to embracing the futuristic shape is going for light, neutral colors.

Though shift dresses have maintained their relevancy over the decades, it's the A-line iterations with hiked-up hemlines that are particularly reminiscent of the '60s. Just as they were then, these styles are often emblazoned with intricate floral motifs and feature a high-cut neckline to balance the mini length. Follow the model's lead and add a coordinating handkerchief scarf for your hair to really embrace the mod look.

From the preppy outfits on college campuses to the prim and proper getups of flight attendants in the '60s, uniform dressing in a more literal sense was quite popular. The look included polished folded and pointed collars, caps sleeves, and modest tailoring, all things that we are seeing more commonly in 2022 thanks to brands like Miu Miu.

Whether you would describe your personal style as romantic or not, tulle is the type of material that makes you look stage ready. Like sequins, the featherweight fabric was common choice among performers in the '60s, such as Dionne Warwick and Diana Ross. Today the trend manifests in the form of party dresses, strapless tops, and even the two-piece coordinate sets from Italian fashion designer Giambattista Valli.

Skyrocketing to popularity in the late '60,s Paco Rabanne is revered among the fashion greats for its use of chainmail. Transforming the somewhat tricky material into beautifully-made pieces of ready-to-wear and accessories, the brand is still very relevant in 2022. Newer brands like Poster Girl and Fannie Schiavoni are putting a more modern spin on chainmail, so regardless of the look you're going for, you're bound to find something that fits your aesthetic.

Thanks to brands like Gabriela Hearst, the DIY trend featuring crochet-knit designs and woven patterns is here to stay. Cardigans and jumpers are the most common options, but as seen on American singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist Nina Simone, netted dresses and shell tops are just as essential. Plus, they're great for chilly summer nights when a light layer is required.