1960s-Inspired Fashion Trends Making A Comeback In 2025

The phrase "everything old is new again" is true once more. Today's trendsetters are feeling nostalgic for years gone by and are taking inspiration from an iconic decade for style: the 1960s. The '60s were a historic time of change and influence that impacted fashion in unmistakable ways. Television was becoming a staple in homes and culture at large, and families across the U.S. couldn't get enough of seeing images from around the world in their homes. Watching notable figures like politicians and musicians from their own couches sent ripple effects through pop culture and established new trends that exploded in real time. Specifically, young women began to stray from traditional clothing of the past and started to experiment with colors, textures, and fabrics.

Now, some of the classic fashions of the '60s are being reimagined by the modern generation. This provides a fun opportunity to embrace timeless pieces that have proven their beauty and update them to fit today's practices. Matt Jefferson, style consultant at TWEEDS, exclusively tells Glam how '60s fashions are being revisited this year. "In 2025, when we are more interconnected than ever before, I think Gen Z has largely amplified and accelerated the cyclical nature of trends that we've observed in previous decades," he says. He specifically notes "the rising popularity of the drape cut," adding that the "oversized look is growing more prevalent in the zeitgeist." Whether it's clothes, shoes, or accessories, there are so many great ways that 1960s fashions are seeing modern updates.

The psychedelic 1960s were all about loud, exciting colors thanks, in part, to color televisions and brightly printed magazines. Vibrant, eye-catching tones showed up on all types of garments and made outfits look fun and playful. It's always a treat to infuse more color into your wardrobe, especially when neutral tones have become the standard. If you're tired of playing it safe with your outfits, you can utilize different shades and hues to set you apart. 

"Gen Z isn't afraid of self-expression and will happily challenge the status quo," Matt Jefferson exclusively tells Glam. "More and more of my clients are not afraid to step out from the traditional menswear color palette to inject more of their personality while bringing a little levity into their tailored clothing." Now is a great time to experiment with neons and color blocking that in the past may have been thought of as overwhelming, especially at the office. Or for just a touch of whimsy, add colors in subtle ways like with scarfs or an expressive pair of shoes. Color has the ability to lift our mood and impact how we feel, so don't be afraid to mix and match multiple colors at once. 

Everyone should have a pair of loafers in their closet. They're practical and a feminine choice for those that aren't keen on high heels. Loafers, particularly in a Mary Jane style, have been around for decades and have proven their fashion worth. The strapped shoes include a rounded closed toe and have been made in an endless number of styles, colors, and materials. With their iconic thin strap, Mary Janes are dainty and feminine but can also fit in with preppy and grungy styles. They can be dressed up or down, providing comfort at big get-togethers or a relaxed hang-out.

In fact, Mary Janes are a shoe trend everyone will be trying in 2025 because they work with so many different outfits. In the 1960s, they were paired with tights and short skirts, while they look just as good when paired with jeans today. Moreover, you can now find them in bigger, chunkier pumps for a more industrial look or soft pastel colors with bows and lace for a delicate touch. Ultimately, Mary Janes are the epitome of comfort and class, bringing the timeless design of the '60s to today's fashion scene.  

Balancing work and play can be tricky, but dressing in a garment that balances work and play is the ultimate win. Nothing is more functional than an outfit that is fitting for the office but fun enough for a social gathering. Skirt suits are the best of both worlds, suitable for formal or casual occasions. It's a perfect way to show the world that you've got beauty and brains to offer.

There are lots of ways to wear a skirt suit, whether it's a jacket over a long dress or a matching two-piece blazer and skirt pairing. Be sure to choose a fabric material that's breathable but still shapely on your figure. Neutrals like black and taupe always look chic, but since smart and eccentric color pairings are trendy this year, try channeling Elle Woods with a pop of pink business wear.

"We've seen a revival of softer pastel colors and brighter hues in suiting," Matt Jefferson tells Glam in an exclusive chat. He adds that women are playing with the ensemble so that it's more expressive of their personal style: "My female clients especially will experiment more with the silhouette, opting for bell-bottom or drape-cut bottoms, or even shorts paired with their jackets."

Large eyewear was a go-to accessory in the 1960s. Styles and frames became more artistic, and big names would wear stylish sunglasses indoors and out to make a statement. Sunglasses made celebrities look edgy and added a level of mystery by keeping their eyes from being exposed.

Interestingly enough, 2025 will be the year of maximalism and loud luxury, so you'll see street style getting bigger and bolder to give off the aesthetic of "more is more." And with summer around the corner, big sunglasses are making their way back to the top. There are so many ways to style oversized sunglasses whether you are coordinating them with your outfit or wearing them casually on your neckline. A pair of sunglasses with wide lenses and even a dark tint are the perfect summer staple to protect your eyes and add a hint of drama to your street style or swimwear. Even novelty glasses are fun to pair with swim suits for an unforgettable day at the beach.