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60s African American Fashion: 6 Notable Facts

Are you ready to explore the bold world of ’60s African American fashion? Many people are looking for ways to mix cultural pride with modern style, but choosing the right trends can be overwhelming.

You’re not alone—whether you’re searching for timeless elegance, African-inspired designs, or a combination of both, there’s a perfect look for every occasion.

We’re here to help you discover the key styles that defined 1960s Black fashion, featuring:

  • Slim-cut suits and fedora hats for men
  • Sheath and A-line dresses for women
  • Dashikis and African prints for a cultural touch
  • Bold accessories like chunky jewelry and large sunglasses

Following this guide will show you how these iconic styles shaped an era and how you can incorporate them into your wardrobe today.

Keep reading to uncover the influence of 60s fashion and how it can elevate your look.

1. 60s Black Fashion: Dresses & Suits

Dresses & Suits in 60s Black Style Generated by AI

For Men: In the 1960s, men’s fashion was characterized by slim-cut suits with narrow lapels, often in dark or pastel colors. These suits were paired with fedoras and shiny shoes, creating a sharp, polished look. Influenced by the clean lines of the Mod movement, this style gave men a refined appearance.

For more casual moments, men also wore knit polo shirts, turtlenecks, leather jackets, and cardigans, offering a relaxed yet stylish contrast to their formal attire.

For Women: Women’s fashion in the ’60s combined elegance with modern appeal. Sheath and A-line dresses, often knee-length or mini, became popular, with bright colors and bold prints making a statement. The A-line silhouette, which flared gently from the waist, became a wardrobe staple.

Maxi dresses and kaftans, flowing and ankle-length, were also essential, often showcasing African attire for women. These dresses were both comfortable and stylish, with the loose, exotic fit of the kaftan representing a bohemian spirit that resonated with many African-American women during the time.

Dresses & Suits in 60s Black Style Video by idriveaclassic

2. 60s Black Fashion: Bottoms

Bottoms in 60s Black Style Generated by AI

For Men: In the late 1960s, bell-bottom pants became a popular style for men. With their wide flared legs, these pants were often paired with fitted shirts, creating a fashionable and laid-back look that suited the relaxed mood of the decade.

For Women: Mod fashion had a significant influence on women’s clothing, introducing mini skirts, shift dresses, and bold color-block patterns. These styles, inspired by the Mod movement, focused on youthful and modern designs.

Additionally, women began wearing pantsuits and jumpsuits, which symbolized empowerment, offering a structured and confident look in a time of social change.

3. 60s Black Fashion: Dashikis & African Prints

Dashiki in 60s Black Style Generated by AI

In the 1960s, dashikis and African prints became important in Black fashion. The dashiki, a loose-fitting tunic with bright, bold patterns, symbolized a connection to African heritage and cultural pride.

Along with the dashiki, Kente cloth, and other traditional African prints gained popularity, appearing in both everyday wear and formal outfits, reflecting a strong link to African traditions.

See Also South American Fashion

4. 60s Black Fashion: Footwear

Footwear in 60s Black Style Generated by AI

For Men: Men’s footwear in the 1960s included oxfords, loafers, and wingtips for formal looks. Chelsea boots, ankle-length and sleek, were popular for Mod outfits. For casual wear, sandals, and leather slippers were often worn with dashikis or Afrocentric attire.

Leather boots and pointed shoes also appeared while platform shoes became trendy later in the decade, adding height and boldness.

For Women: Women’s footwear ranged from kitten heels for chic looks to go-go boots, especially in white, for a Mod and Soul influence. Chunky heels and platform shoes gained popularity, offering height and style.

Ballet flats were a comfortable option, while strappy sandals were paired with Afrocentric and bohemian styles. Leather boots, loafers, and oxfords remained versatile choices for various occasions.

5. 60s Black Fashion: Hairstyles and Makeup

Hairstyles and Makeup in 60s Black Style Generated by AI

Hairstyles: The Afro became a powerful symbol of Black pride and resistance, known for its natural, voluminous shape. Many women, inspired by Motown stars like Diana Ross, used hot combs to straighten their hair into sleek, straight styles.

Beehive and bouffant hairstyles were favored for adding volume and sophistication. Traditional African styles, like cornrows and braids, made a strong comeback. Headwraps and scarves were worn both for cultural expression and as stylish accessories.

Makeup: Makeup in the 1960s was bold and striking. Dramatic eyes featured thick eyeliner, cat-eye designs, and long lashes. For lips, women chose bold shades such as red, coral, and pink. A smooth, radiant complexion was achieved with minimal foundation, focusing on flawless skin. Defined eyebrows completed the polished look.

See Also California Casual Dress Code

6. 60s Black Fashion: Accessories

Accessories in 60s Black Style Generated by AI

Bold jewelry, including chunky gold pieces, beaded necklaces, and large statement earrings, became popular and were influenced by African culture and the Black pride movement.

Sunglasses were a must-have, with large, round, or cat-eye frames adding a stylish flair.

Handbags and clutches ranged from small, structured purses to bohemian-style shoulder bags, offering variety.

Hats and headpieces, like wide-brimmed hats, fedoras, and turbans, were worn for both fashion and cultural meaning. Women also wore large, ornate hats for formal occasions, adding elegance and femininity to their looks.

Gloves were commonly worn at formal events, providing an extra touch of sophistication.

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60s African American Fashion: A Recap

60s African American Fashion Video by Yohannes

The 60s marked a transformative era for black fashion, beautifully blending cultural pride with bold self-expression. From the rise of the Afro to vibrant, African-inspired prints, fashion became a powerful tool for expressing strength, resilience, and pride within the black community.

These fashion statements went beyond mere aesthetics—they were symbols of heritage and a desire for social change, deeply connected to the Black Power movement.

The use of bright colors, distinctive patterns, and intricate designs in black fashion reflected a deep respect for West Africa’s traditions while asserting a modern identity. As the decade progressed, black fashion continued to evolve, incorporating new trends while remaining rooted in its cultural origins.

This fusion of history and style not only influenced the fashion industry but also laid the groundwork for the future of hip-hop fashion, which would later emerge in the 80s.

By the end of the 1960s, black fashion had made a lasting impact, shaping a powerful cultural identity that still resonates today, continuing to influence both the fashion industry and broader trends.

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