The 1960s was a decade full of social and cultural upheaval. Music, fashion, and ideas were breaking new ground, reshaping the world in unexpected ways.
Amid the change, pop culture exploded with unique and often bizarre trends. People embraced bold ideas, and new forms of expression emerged everywhere.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane to revisit the most popular fads that defined the swinging sixties. These unforgettable trends captured the spirit of the era.
1. Afros
The afro was a symbol of Black pride and empowerment during the Civil Rights Movement. It was a way for Black people to assert their identity and challenge Eurocentric beauty standards. The afro also became a popular hairstyle among white people who wanted to express their solidarity with the Black community.
As the Civil Rights Movement progressed and racial tensions eased, the afro gradually became less of a political statement. Additionally, the rise of new hairstyles and fashion trends in the 1970s and 1980s contributed to the decline in popularity of the afro.
2. Balsa Wood Airplanes
Balsa wood airplanes were a popular hobby for kids in the 1960s because they were easy to build and fly. They were also a relatively affordable way for kids to experience the thrill of flight.
The use of toxic glue to assemble balsa wood airplanes eventually led to their decline in popularity. As concerns about the health risks associated with glue exposure grew, parents became less likely to allow their children to build and fly these models.
3. Banana Seats
Banana seats were a stylish and comfortable alternative to traditional bicycle seats. They were also a popular choice among teenagers and young adults who were looking for a way to express their individuality.
Banana seats were eventually replaced by more modern and aerodynamic bicycle seats. As cycling became more focused on performance and efficiency, the banana seat was seen as a relic of the past.
4. Beatlemania
Beatlemania was a cultural phenomenon that captured the imagination of millions of young people around the world. The Beatles’ music was innovative and catchy, and their personalities were charismatic and relatable. Their concerts were often chaotic and dangerous, and fans would go to great lengths to see them perform.
As the 1960s progressed, the popularity of The Beatles began to wane. The band’s music became more experimental and less accessible to mainstream audiences, and the initial excitement of Beatlemania began to fade.
5. Bellbottoms
Bellbottoms were a symbol of the counterculture movement in the 1960s. They were associated with hippies, peace activists, and other social and political movements. Bellbottoms were also a comfortable and stylish alternative to traditional pants.
As the 1970s progressed, the popularity of bellbottoms began to decline. They were replaced by other fashion trends, such as disco pants and skinny jeans.
6. Black Light
Black lights were a popular way to create psychedelic effects in nightclubs, concerts, and dorm rooms in the 1960s. They were often used in conjunction with other special effects, such as strobe lights and fog machines, to create a surreal atmosphere.
As the psychedelic culture of the 1960s faded, so too did the popularity of black lights. They were eventually replaced by other lighting technologies that were more versatile and efficient.
7. Bouffant Hairdo
The bouffant hairdo was a symbol of elegance and sophistication in the 1960s. It was often associated with First Lady Jackie Kennedy and was a popular choice for special occasions.
As the 1960s progressed, the bouffant hairdo became less popular. It was replaced by other hairstyles that were more casual and relaxed.
8. Go-Go Boots
Go-go boots were a symbol of youth and rebellion in the 1960s. They were often associated with the mod subculture and were popular among young women who wanted to make a fashion statement.
As the 1960s progressed, the popularity of go-go boots began to decline. They were replaced by other fashion trends, such as platform shoes and ankle boots.
9. Granny Glasses
Granny glasses were a symbol of counterculture rebellion in the 1960s. They were often worn by young people who wanted to defy conventional norms and express their individuality.
As the 1960s progressed, the popularity of granny glasses began to decline. They were replaced by other fashion trends, such as aviator sunglasses and oversized frames.
10. Lava Lamps
Lava lamps were a popular home decor item in the 1960s. They were associated with the psychedelic culture and were a symbol of the counterculture movement.
As the psychedelic culture of the 1960s faded, so too did the popularity of lava lamps. They were eventually replaced by other home decor trends.
11. Love Beads
Love beads were a symbol of peace, love, and harmony in the 1960s. They were often worn by hippies and other counterculture activists.
As the 1970s progressed, the popularity of love beads began to decline. They were replaced by other fashion trends, such as chunky necklaces and bracelets.
12. Mood Rings
Mood rings were a popular accessory in the 1960s. They were believed to change color based on the wearer’s mood, and they were a way to express emotions without having to say anything.
As the 1970s progressed, the popularity of mood rings began to decline. They were replaced by other fashion trends, such as friendship bracelets and charm necklaces.
13. Ouija Boards
Ouija boards were a popular way to purportedly communicate with spirits in the 1960s. They were often associated with the occult and the supernatural, and they were a source of fascination and fear.
As the 1970s progressed, the popularity of Ouija boards began to decline. They were replaced by other forms of entertainment, such as television and video games.
14. Platform Shoes
Platform shoes were a popular fashion item in the 1960s. They were associated with the mod subculture and were a way to make a fashion statement.
As the 1970s progressed, the popularity of platform shoes began to decline. They were replaced by other fashion trends, such as stiletto heels and chunky sneakers.
15. Rickie Tickie Stickers
Rickie Tickie stickers were a popular way to personalize belongings in the 1960s. They were a simple and affordable way to express individuality and creativity.
As the 1970s progressed, the popularity of Rickie Tickie stickers began to decline. They were replaced by other forms of personalization, such as decals and tattoos.
16. Skully
Skully was a simple yet fun game that could be played anywhere there was a flat surface. It was a popular way for kids to spend time outdoors and socialize with friends.
As technology advanced, kids had more options for entertainment, such as video games and computers.
17. Sea Monkeys
Sea Monkeys were a novelty pet that offered a unique and low-maintenance way for kids to have a pet. They were easy to care for and could be raised in a small aquarium.
As new and more exotic pet options became available, Sea Monkeys gradually lost their appeal. Additionally, concerns about the environmental impact of shipping and releasing exotic species into the wild contributed to their decline in popularity.
18. Slogan Buttons
Slogan buttons were a way for people to express their political and social views in a public and visible way. They were often used by activists and protesters to raise awareness about important issues.
As the political landscape changed and new forms of activism emerged, slogan buttons became less relevant. Additionally, the rise of social media and online activism provided new and more effective ways for people to express their views.
19. Slot Cars
Slot cars were a popular toy for boys in the 1960s. They offered a way for kids to experience the thrill of racing without the risks associated with real-world car racing.
As technology advanced, new and more sophisticated racing games became available for home consoles and computers. Slot cars gradually lost their appeal as these digital alternatives offered a more immersive and realistic racing experience.
20. Superballs
Superballs were a popular toy for kids in the 1960s. They were incredibly bouncy and could be played with both indoors and outdoors.
As new and more innovative toys became available, Superballs gradually lost their appeal. Additionally, concerns about the safety of small toys for young children may have contributed to their decline in popularity.
21. Surfing
Surfing was a popular sport in the 1960s, particularly in California. It was associated with a carefree and adventurous lifestyle, and it was popularized by movies and music.
While surfing remains a popular sport today, its popularity has fluctuated over the years. Factors such as changes in weather patterns, environmental concerns, and the availability of surf spots can impact the popularity of surfing.
22. The Twist
The Twist was a simple and fun dance that could be easily learned by people of all ages. It was a way for people to let loose and have fun, and it was often performed at parties and social events.
As the 1960s progressed, new dance crazes emerged, and the Twist gradually lost its popularity. Additionally, changes in music tastes and styles may have contributed to its decline.
23. Tie Dye T-shirts
Tie dye t-shirts were a symbol of the counterculture movement in the 1960s. They were a way for people to express their individuality and challenge traditional norms.
As the 1970s progressed, the popularity of tie dye t-shirts began to decline. They were replaced by other fashion trends, such as disco shirts and punk rock attire.
24. Troll Dolls
Troll dolls were a popular toy for children in the 1960s. They were said to bring good luck, and they were a popular collectible.
As new and more innovative toys became available, Troll dolls gradually lost their appeal. Additionally, changes in children’s tastes and preferences may have contributed to their decline in popularity.
25. Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks were a popular fashion item in the 1960s. They were associated with a sophisticated and intellectual look, and they were often worn by celebrities and public figures.
As the 1970s progressed, the popularity of turtlenecks began to decline. They were replaced by other fashion trends, such as polo shirts and sweaters.