How To Achieve 1960s Look with Tights & Stockings

One of the defining styles of the 1960s fashion scene was the miniskirt paired with an array of colorful, youthful tights. You can achieve the same look today using hosiery, whether straight from the ’60s or using modern alternatives.

How Hosiery Changed a Decade of Fashion

While the 1950s were characterized by elegance and sophistication, the 1960s witnessed the rise of the miniskirt, vibrant colors, and bold patterns. Younger generations had more buying power than previous generations, and fashion trends accommodated with youthful and fun fashions. Garter belts and stockings, the hosiery of previous generations, fell by the wayside and were replaced by statement tights and full-length pantyhose.

Hallmarks of 60's Fashion

The decade saw many changes in fashion trends from beginning to end, but there are a few pieces that define 60's fashion.

Hosiery

Tights became a fashion staple along with seamless pantyhose. Access to stretchier fabrics like spandex and nylon made it easier and more affordable to create hosiery that could be worn comfortably with a range of styles. Pantyhose gave the illusion of bare legs beneath short hemlines, while tights became a fashion statement all their own with vibrant colors and patterns.

Short Skirts and Dresses

As fashion buyers became younger, hemlines became shorter. By the middle of the decade, miniskirts and mini dresses were the option of choice for young people. They were often accessorized with an array of tights, bold necklaces, and belts.

Bright Colors and Patterns

Whether you think of bold flower prints, plaid, stripes, or psychedelic swirls, there is no denying that the 60’s were all about color and eye-catching patterns. 

Getting the Look For Yourself 

If you’re looking to get that 1960s look for yourself, there are numerous options available for modern buyers. Vintage clothing stores have gained popularity and are available in many cities. Thrifting is also a great way to find vintage gems for a bargain. You can also go with vintage-inspired clothing or mix vintage-inspired pieces with your existing wardrobe.

Here are a few ideas to get you started!

Be Yourself

The fashion of the 60's was defined by a younger generation emboldened to express themselves. Keep that in mind when designing your outfits. Throw fashion "rules" out the window and pair whatever colors, patterns, and accessories you love into the mix.

Don't be Afraid of Color

Bold colors were a defining characteristic of 1960s fashion. With nylon tights becoming more affordable, women could now own many pairs in various colors. Start with a bold patterned tight, and pair it with a dress or top in a coordinating solid shade. Or, make your dress the statement piece with solid tights. You can even do a mishmash of two different patterns. The key is remembering to keep it fun, youthful, and individual.

Blend Old with New

You don’t have to go full-on retro to get a ’60s vibe in your wardrobe. Bright, 60s-inspired hosiery is available that can be worn with denim skirts, mid-length dresses, or even under your favorite pair of short shorts. If you are not into wearing shorter hemlines but still want the look, consider a floral pastel maxi dress in a 60s-inspired print.

Accessorize

In the 1960s, fashion accessories were as bold as the clothing itself. You can get a similar look with vintage-inspired earrings, statement necklaces, or scarves. Sunglasses in bright colors and even various shapes were also on-trend and can be easily paired with vintage or modern ensembles. Headbands and scarves were also a popular choice, allowing for a range of hairstyles or to simply keep hair out of the way, to stand alone as statement pieces on their own.

Complete the Look with Heels

The perfect accompaniment to a fun pair of stockings is an equally fun pair of heels. High heels weren’t just for elegance in the 1960s; they took on open toes or backs, along with the same bright hues as the rest of 1960s fashion. Don’t be afraid to complete your look with a flirty pair of heels.

Go-go boots were also making a wave in the 1960s and have begun making a comeback in modern fashion. You could use boots you already own with a plethora of colorful hosiery to change things up, or find real vintage or inspired boots in bright colors to liven up any outfit.

Try New Things

Don't be afraid to get a little crazy. Put together colors or patterns you wouldn’t usually see together. Try new colors you haven’t worn before. Wear tights with outfits that don't typically warrant tights. Daring fashion choices and artistic expression defined the 60s, let yourself have fun with it!

Putting it Together

When aiming for an iconic 1960s look, hosiery combined with bright colors and patterns is the way to go. Tights are an inexpensive way to dress up or down any outfit and infuse your current wardrobe with personality.