The sixties was a decade which broke many fashion traditions. Mart Quant invented the mini-skirt, and Jackie Kennedy introduced the pillbox hat, both becoming extremely popular. Fashion in the sixties could be anything anyone desired. It could be colourful, plain, tailored or ever tye died. Accessories were not important during this time, people focused more on colours and tones. Psychedelic prints, highlighter colours and different patterns were all popular among this time.
After designer Mary Quant introduced the mini-skirt in 1964, everything changed. Nearly every young, stylish woman wore a mini-skirt. It became popular among all the young people. Before this time short skirts were only seen as sports clothing. Women used them in tennis, figure skating and cheer leading.
Mary ran her own popular clothing shop on King Road, Chelsea, London, called 'Bazaar' from which she sold her own designs. In the late fifties Mary began experimenting with shorter skirts, this later because the mini skirt which was named after Marys favourite car, the Mini. This trend went from being sold in a small shop on King Road to being an international icon. The style came into prominence when Jean Shrimpton wore a short white shift dress, made by Colin Rolfe, on 30 October 1965 at Derby Day, first day of the annual Melbourne Cup Carnival in Australia.
.André Courrèges made the miniskirt even more popular when he incorporated in into his mod look for his spring and summer collection in 1965. However, his miniskirts weren't as tight and were worn with 'Courrèges boots'. This became a trademark look. Even bigger leading french fashion designer, Yves St. Laurent began to show shorter skirts in his autumn and winter collection. This collection included the famous 'Mondrian' dress, inspired by famous work of painter Piet Mondrian.
Following this came Paco Robanne's 'Body Jewellery' collection in 1966. This collection showed short dresses made from plastic or metal discs joined by wire or chains. This was a whole new modern look. Some say that they never thought fashion would be taken to such great extents.
This all had a great impact on fashion in Australia. Once a new, wonderful trend was created everyone had to hop on the 'bandwagon' and follow along with this great idea.
The iconic mini skirt created by André Courrèges with trend setting 'Courrèges boots'.
Window dressing at Bazzar, 138a King's Road.
Paco Robanne's 'Body Jewellery' collection. Featuring Donyale Luna, one of the first black models to have a picture advertised. A very controversial piece.
Watch the embedded video below to get a taste of the funky sixties fashion.