Style in the ‘60s: Hippy Culture Meets the Mods
We retrospectively examine popular menswear in Canada in the 1960s along with what was going on at Harry Rosen during the decade.
By: Harry Rosen StaffDate: 2024-07-26
The onset of the swinging '60s brought with it massive changes to popular culture and, of course, the way men dressed. Certain styles will always be tied to the decade, though that’s not to say you can’t get away with wearing them today.
Put the “Mod” in Modern
The Mod subculture was a defining force in 1960s Britain, a movement that embraced tailored styles and a love for modern jazz and scooters. Mods were known for their meticulous attention to detail, favouring slim-cut overcoats, slim-fit trousers, Chelsea boots, and stylish scarves.
The look was all about clean lines, bold patterns, and a sense of sophistication. The movement not only shaped fashion but had a lasting impact on music and culture, with bands like The Who and The Small Faces embodying the Mod spirit.
Today’s Take
The sharp, clean look of Mod fashion remains timeless, offering a sophisticated yet bold style that inspires, whether it be a classic wool coat from Maurizio Baldassari, the bold shirt prints from Bugatchi, or a vibrant burgundy jersey twill pant. Top it off with a polished Chelsea boot like this one from Magnanni, a slim wool tie, and optional scarf to complete the look.
This trend excels in both formal and business casual settings, providing a versatile yet distinctive style that turns heads.
Peace, Love, & Style
The hippie movement of the ‘60s was a reaction against the establishment and a call for peace and love amidst the turmoil of global events. Hippie subculture celebrated peace, love, and a vibrant sense of style.
Bell-bottom jeans, tie-dye shirts, fringed jackets, and loud dress shirts defined this bohemian aesthetic. It was a time when fashion was about making bold statements and expressing individuality.
Today’s Take
Elements of this era return today, now with boxy fit denim jeans and bold dress shirts in bright colours or psychedelic patterns like Emanuel Berg’s, sure to be conversation starters. Add aviator sunglasses like these new yellow-tinted Tom Ford frames to capture that free-spirited vibe. For a complete ensemble, add a suede jacket and boots to tie the look together or add some bohemian flair.
This look is perfect for music festivals and concerts, casual outings, an eclectic office, or anytime you want to channel your inner hippie to make a statement.
Style Tip: Don’t Forget to Accessorize!
The devil is in the details. A hat, scarf, glasses, and jewelery help to enliven an outfit and personalize it to the wearer.
What Was Happening at Harry’s?
The 1960s was a time of great progress at Harry Rosen with many landmark achievements occurring during the decade.
In 1961, Harry Rosen made its monumental first move away from the store’s original location on Parliament Street in the residential neighbourhood of Cabbagetown, Toronto and into its new address at 117 Richmond Street West in the heart of the city’s bustling business district.
The new store was considerably larger than the original location and this was quite a gamble for Harry Rosen, though he was steadfast in his belief the store would appeal to the denizens of Bay Street – Toronto's financial capital – and achieve success. Of course, Harry’s bet paid off.
In 1962, Harry Rosen engaged with advertising executives to spread the word about his premium menswear store and thus, the Ask Harry series was born. Full-length advertisements for Harry Rosen were published on page A3 of the Globe and Mail newspaper every Tuesday, iconic for their humour and wit.
By the end of the ‘60s, Harry Rosen had built the largest specialty menswear store in Canada, setting the foundations for the adventurous and enterprising future to come.