The 1960’s according to River Island was a period characterized by ‘vintage faux suede fringe jackets’, large sunglasses and the ‘infamous Mary Quant esque’ mini skirt, as made popular by the youth culture in the 1960’s. But there is more to the sixties than the ‘Mary Quant’ postcard image’ and its safe to say that allowing ourselves to re-interpret fashion history, through another brand like River Island’s ‘gaze’ can be elementary to how we construct our own fashion identity. For example River Island’s A/W 17 collection encompassed traditional elements of sixties fashion such as the large oversized sunglasses as popularized by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast At Tiffany’s (1961), the tweed boucle jacket worn by Coco Chanel in 1954, but rising in popularity in the sixties ‘mature fashion’ scene and of course the ‘skinny scarf’ which ‘while more popular in the 1920’s and 1970’s’ , the skinny scarf was often worn as a ‘head scarf’ like in the 1940’s when women wore them as ‘propaganda’ uniform. At the same time, the A/W collection sought to re-interpret 60’s trends like the ‘skinny scarf’ and give it their own, modern ‘River Island’ flavour by utilizing textures like velvet and brocade and mixing it with ‘cool sixties trends’.
Naturally the look below bears comparison to a ‘fusion of historical era styles that have been patchworked together to create one unique look’. For example while the ‘button popper’ skirt is sixties at first glance, the rich burgundy colour of the a-line skirt is more synonymous with the 7o’s who favored autumnal, earthy and jewel tones as opposed to its sixties predecessors who loved acidic and primary brights that brought into psychedelic, new wave fashion. On the other hand the fishnet tights is more aligned with the punk rock subculture of the 90’s, where fishnets were worn as a form of ‘angst and self expression’, although they would have been worn with DR Martens, as opposed to the tonal sock boots that are demonstrated throughout this lookbook.
So while River Island might have been inspired by the ‘cool factor’ of the 60’s whose trends were dominated and controlled by the ‘youth culture’ of the era, at the same time its modern re-interpretation of sixties fashion overlaps other fashion history eras like the 90’s (fishnets), the 70’s (the boxy fedora/floppy hat hybrid ) and modern fashion (the sock boots). So what does it mean therefore in relation to my statement that River Island had been inspired by the sixties this winter, if the trends showcased are actually more representative of a patchwork of fashion eras as opposed to one specific era influence?
Well it is a simple fashion formula, the concept of the sixties is often centered around ‘tonal dressing’ that has been inspired by previous decades. For example the skinny scarf was a 1920’s trend used to draw attention to ‘the drop down waist’ that flappers wore, but in the 60’s was worn with a-line, gender neutral silhouettes, drawing parallels with the 1920’s because they were both eras that embraced gender neutrality. You only have to look at David Bowie and his alternating ‘stage persona’s in the late sixties and seventies (Ziggy Stardust, The Thin White Duke) to know that the late sixties was a period of transgression from heteronormative alignments, whereby fashion icons, musicians and other public figures created an ‘androgynous challenge’ and defied the heteronormative expectations of gender and sexual orientation.
As you know it is common for women to wear trousers today but it wasn’t until the 1960’s and 70’s that trousers became gender neutral as opposed to something that only men would wear. And it’s the same with the look below; skirts were once worn by both sexes but over time evolved into something that was associated with women. And yet today artists like Jaden Smith are showing that we all have the ability to ‘wear clothing’ and make it our own, regardless of what gender we may be. Because we have to remember that gender is a social construct and the only way that we can ‘break stereotypes’ is through looking at fashion history and noticing the pioneers like Audrey Hepburn and David Bowie who put two middle fingers up at the society in which they lived in. And more and more retailers are cottoning onto androgynous identity as a form of self expression with sixties gender neutral trends like the Chanel boucle jacket made from tweed, brocade velvet and embroidered jumpsuits such as the ‘nudie Suit’ worn by Elvis Presley who championed the ‘wild west wardrobe’, bearing similar replicas at River Island.
But like I said, when it comes to brands or even individuals like myself looking back into fashion history, we should look to be ‘influenced and informed’ by fashion trends as opposed to ‘imitation’ even if it is the sincerest form of flattery. For example the A/W 17 catwalk show was heavily inspired by the 60’s with cool mod, a-line shapes and bright, bold primary colours. Yet at the same time, the mod dresses were adorned with flamenco inspired ‘ruffles’ and the bold colours were often juxtaposed with prints like the moody ‘floral’ as showcased above that is more indicative of the 1950’s and 90’s as opposed to the sixties.
Thus it shows that my own personal interpretation of the 60’s is also interlinked with the 70’s and 90’s, although my own personal style identity is very much ‘personalized to who I am as a person. For example my formal wear is often inspired by Old Hollywood Glamour with soft pastel pleated midi dresses and ornate embroidery, whereas my ‘casual wear’ is usually interlinked to the 60’s and 70’s with a typical uniform involving a mini skirt, faux fur jacket, fishnets and heels, with a floppy hat to throw the outfit together. At the same time, like the brands that are so popular in mainstream fashion culture, my fashion identity is constantly evolving, even when it has been inspired by ‘eras throughout history’. We have to remember that trends are recycled throughout time, and that while I don’t necessarily follow fashion trends because I believe we should be able to ‘wear whatever the f**k we like’ without being told what is ‘hot and what is not’ at the same time, I am influenced by fashion trends which is prevalent throughout my wardrobe.
Do You Find That Your Fashion Choices Are Influenced By Sixties Fashion?
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While I wouldn’t say my style is influenced by the ’60, I can say I loved all of the fun things women wore back then. Everything from Jackie Kennedy’s style of clean, simple, well fitted, with perfectly matched accessories to Brigitte Bardot’s looks that were (at times) tacky, cheap, bold, and even silly. (ps: I love Brigitte Bardot). I guess it just shows that we don’t have to fit neatly into a box, which to me is the underlying message of the ’60s. x
I think we have all in some stage of our life followed a trend or taken inspiration from the fashion industry .I remember having a suede jacket with fringes in a tan colour many years ago. I also had the long suede boots too so I guess I must have been inspired by these styles. The outfit you have put together is lovely, well thought out and coordinated.
There were many diverse trends in the 1960’s. Many fashion traditions were broken in that decade. People still tend to look back at the sixties to take inspiration in the clothes they create these days. The fishnet compliments the total attire .
I just loved your look the skirt . I like how fashion from older times are coming back into trend and everyone is rocking the vintage and retro style. I loved how to put together your outfit it’s perfect combination.
So fun! One of the great things about fashion is no matter what you’re wearing it’s all about whether you’re wearing it with confidence or not. I see all the decades you’ve referenced and I adore this outfit!! The skirt is probably my favorite part, with the boots a close second.
Although I wouldn’t say that my style is influenced by the 60’s I do like the idea of amalgamating different eras for influence, instead of outright imitating. I think if I were to develop a personal style identity influenced by the 60’s then the sunglasses would work well for me! This was really interesting learning about the fashion history. Thanks for sharing!
OH MY GOODNESS!!!Honey you look way to lovely…I love the monochromes i.e all the burgundy hues going on here and the perfect break of an awesome pair of fishnet tights. Loving the mix of trends from different eras in the fashion world!River Island surely got you sorted!
Oh wow! The jacket is stunning. You’ve matched the colours really well. You look really stylish. Throwing it back to the 60’s!
You look good paired in this but, either I would be more self conscious about trying to pull it off or maybe I shouldn’t due to age. I don’t know. I think I had a pair of fish nets in my 20’s but those days are long gone. If I were to shop from your look though it would be that jacket!
I really love this look! The “shades of red trend” of the season and the updated late 60’s look really takes it to a whole new level. This really looks young and fresh on you.
I do like the early 60’s, I’m channeling my Audrey Hepburn, Marylin Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, that part of the 60’s I love the sophisticated styling of that era with the carefree as well because of sexuality and owning it starting to come into play as well, the mini-skirt lol.
I remember seeing photos of my mom in the 60s and thinking how cool and fashionable she was. My mom! I’m no t nearly as trendy as she was. My style is more laid back.
I love this look , I dabble through all the eras I feel more glamorous when gear towards 1950’s pin up looks . now that I’m thinking I kinda of skip the 60’s I own a lot of 70’s fashion items tho. THey say fashion just come back around . But you did an amazing job with this look.
You are just rocking the look so well, loved the whole look, the coat and the shoes would be my favourite from the collection
All I know when I think of fashions in the 60s is how Jackie Kennedy,Audrey Hepburn and Brigette Bardot seemed to be the most iconic and had the biggest influence that still seen in today’s look. You look great!
It looks like your really rocking the sixties, I have to admit it’s an era I’ve never really got into myself, though I think it looks fantastic on others. Which items are from River Island in your photos, is it the sunglasses? I have to admit I’m such a sunglasses person and do love the big frames (hey maybe I do slightly rock the sixties).
The sunglasses, scarf and hat are from River Island although sadly they have now sold out so I linked similar items under my post 🙂 Thank you I do love delving into fashion history and I think that secretly you might be a sixties starlet! Especially if you are living for the sunglasses look!
You look amazing! I love 60’s style and this outfit is gorgeous. I especially love the jacket!
1960s were really unique when it comes to fashion, though I myself didn’t witness it but what all I have read about fashion, that decade was worth remembering. I don’t think my style right now is inspired by 60’s, but fashion rotates itself and I could see it anytime soon.
Your outfit choices in this blog are amazing! Never really been one to follow fashion and/ or trends but I love how the fashion from the past decades comes back.
Love this look! I myself dress to suit my mood for the day and that could range from 50’s, 60’s, through even today’s styles. I blame it on growing up in the 80’s and 90’s…lol😄
I don’t feel that I am influenced by this era too much as I almost always wear trousers so am a lot more modern in that aspect. I love the burgandy/ wine colours you’re wearing though x
Gorgeous! Im a big fan of the 60s although Im not sure I can pull it off quite like you can. I love those colours though, they are so lovely for this time of year. I might treat myself to that skirt!
It’s hard not to be influence by brands and others when putting together your fashion choices. My mummy wore a hat, similar to your at work yesterday and got mocked for it 🙁
I adore fashion and how we can all add our own stamp on things. This next seasons styles really excite me as they are going back to my era. Im not really a lover of all the 60s styles but some I do love. Gorgeous shots as always x
your outfit is so 60’s ! and is gorgeous . I find that trends come and go , and sometime I like their origin sometime no , like the bell/wide sleeve .. hate it … 3/4 and white pipe trousers .. love them . the older I get I admire most personal style over all trendy, and you darling have a great style and amazing confidence
I’m loving this trend. There’s not much out there for us plus size chicks at the moment but the rich romantic colours and tones are there. Just a case of being creative. Love this look for you the colours are fab against your complexion.
I’m more of a 50’s classic Audrey Hepburn kinda gal myself but you definitely rock this style. And I just can’t get over it how beautifully this lipstick shade suits you. I adore this colour but it’s just not agreeing with my skin (too fair) or hair (too red) colour.
Wow girl, I love all the info in this post! Fashion history is so interesting, and there were so many tidbits in this post I had no idea about! Also, I absolutely love this look, too. You’re totally rocking those fishnets, and I adore those booties! xx
One word – YES! You look amazing. you have made such a cool outfit – I love the skirt, the hat and those shade really create a unique look x
I didn`t know that this style skirt was from the 60s. I had one and I never thought that I will wear it again so I gave it away and every time I see someone wearing it I regret that decision. The one from River Island seems pretty cute and affordable.
I loved looking at old photos of my mom and my aunts when they were young women in the 60s. Their clothes were the perfect fit and their shoes were always in tip top shape, clean and shiny. The beehive hairstyle was awesome. I can’t imagine how long it would take to create a look like that. The fashion in the 60s and 70s are definitely making a comeback and I would be happy to join in starting with a few fashion accessories.
That outfit is amazing. I’ve always thought that Audrey Hepburn was beautiful and I love the outfits she wore. I think I also take inspiration from looking at photos of my mum who was definitely into 60s fashions – and still is to some extent!
Love this outfit. You suit reds so well!
All I have to say Ana is that you look amazing in the fashion you wear. Whether it be the 60s trends or your more glamorous and classic Hollywood look, you turn heads. As for me, I don’t think I got any of the 60s residual fashion. While I can appreciate the trend setting David Bowie or the current Eddie Izzard, I just can’t pull off that kind of look. If I had any look that I could pull off and would be comfortable for me, it would be more like the greasers of the 50s.
I admire people who are able to start a fashion trend just by dressing how they feel. I may not be the trendiest dresser in my family, but I do like seeing my sisters and cousins dress to the nines when an occasion calls for it. My mom used to be so glam in her youth. Loved seeing photos of her when she was young. I believe the 60s was THE trendiest era for fashion.
I haven’t worn fishnet tights in ages! You have reminded me how strikingly good they look with skirts, I might go back to wearing them again! And I feel like my choice of colours have been influenced by the 70’s (autumn tones). Fashion is deffo recycled, trends come and go and I feel it is important to have an identity and stand by it really rather than conforming. And yes even with the recycled fashion, one can still be a trend setter and set themselves apart.
I am so inspired by this look! I have a party coming up and I am feeling this whole look.
I am not so good with fashion but yes that fur jacket and scarf looks dashing and it can be a good thing to gift. All other items are also looking good for the sixties fashion.
Hope they will be back into the fashion as many other things come around.
I’ll have your whole outfit please haha! Love RI for their clothing and quality 🙂
Yessss girl I love the colour palette here 🙂 killer look x
I am still trying to work out my style. I love the clothes from the 60’s but don’t have the confidence or body shape to pull it off yet. For now, I will sit admiring everyone else wearing the clothes that one day I will one day pull on, whilst in my jeans and casual top.
I am loving the look of your skirt!! Fashion from the past is evolving back into trend.I loved how to put together your outfit it’s perfect combination.
Wow, very fierce outfit. Ready for Valentines or shall I say so bloody red and I super love it! You really nailed it! I want to do the same however not sure if this will look like the same to me. lol.
I love this look!! If only I could pull off looking
as fabulous and sassy as you do in this 1960s inspired look!
I love love love 60s inspired outfits – I always find them so bright and colourful. If there was any era I wish I’d been able to experience growing up, then the 60s is that era – though that would mean having to be born in the 40s or 50s, and would mean I’d be really old now haha! xx
Really interesting. I never knew about those differences in the trends. I tend to just stick to black jeans and not try anything a bit more out there.
I absolutely love your look – the colours are stunning. I don’t think I have any 1960’s inspired clothes. Kaz
1960’s fashion is some of my favorite! I love the skinny scarf look rather than a huge blanket scarf. The colors are so fun and look beautiful on you. Your style is amazing! xx
I have to admit that while I admire the fashion of the 60’s I tend to steer away from it. The nearest to the 60’s I get in my wardrobe would be a bold print top.
Your outfits are always on point! Love it! You have such good style and fashion sense x
You look amazing, and the style from back in the day is so mature, not only this, but it’s so fashionable and stylish.
You are rocking that outfit! My daughter has a faux fur coat like yours and she loves it just as much!
I love this look. I love how it’s so retro yet modern at the same time… you are really rockin that look!! You inspire me to try to be a little more daring with my outfits.