Ultimate Guide: How to Dress Like a Sixties Hippie Girl

Introduction
The Sixties Hippie Movement
Key Elements of Hippie Fashion
Wardrobe Essentials
Accessorizing Your Look
Makeup and Hairstyles
Famous Hippie Icons and Their Styles
Modern Takes on Hippie Fashion
Sustainable Fashion and the Hippie Ethos
Conclusion
FAQs

Introduction

The 1960s was a decade characterized by social upheaval, cultural revolutions, and a bold new style that embraced freedom, love, and creativity. The hippie movement emerged from this vibrant era, with its followers protesting against war and advocating for peace, love, and equality. Today, the Sixties hippie girl style continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts worldwide. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about dressing like a Sixties hippie girl, including essential wardrobe pieces, accessories, and styling tips.

The Sixties Hippie Movement

The hippie movement began in the United States during the early 1960s and quickly spread around the world. It was a reaction to mainstream culture and a rejection of traditional norms. Hippies embraced a lifestyle that prioritized peace, love, and communal living. Fashion played a significant role in this movement, with clothing choices reflecting their beliefs and values.

The Cultural Impact

The Sixties hippie movement influenced various aspects of society, including music, art, and fashion. Iconic music festivals like Woodstock celebrated this new way of life, bringing together thousands of people in a shared experience of love and music. The clothing worn by hippies often featured bright colors, bold patterns, and flowing silhouettes, symbolizing their desire for freedom and self-expression.

Key Elements of Hippie Fashion

To achieve an authentic Sixties hippie girl look, it’s essential to understand the key elements that define this style. Here are the main aspects of hippie fashion:

Natural Fabrics: Cotton, linen, and hemp were preferred materials for hippie clothing, reflecting their connection to nature.
Loose Fit: Comfort was key; clothing was often oversized and flowing, allowing for freedom of movement.
Bold Patterns: Psychedelic prints, tie-dye, and floral designs were popular among hippies.
Earthy Tones: While bright colors were common, earthy tones like browns, greens, and yellows were also frequently worn.
Layering: Layering different pieces was a popular technique to create unique and personalized outfits.

Wardrobe Essentials

When assembling a wardrobe inspired by Sixties hippie girls, certain pieces are essential to achieve the look. Here are some must-have items:

1. Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses were a staple in the hippie wardrobe. These long, flowing dresses often featured floral prints and can be worn for both casual and more formal occasions.

2. Bell-Bottom Jeans

A defining feature of the hippie look, bell-bottom jeans flare out from the knee. Pair them with a simple top or a bohemian blouse for a complete look.

3. Peasant Blouses

These blouses often have embroidery and are made from lightweight fabrics. They can be paired with jeans or skirts for a casual yet chic vibe.

4. Tie-Dye Clothing

Tie-dye was a popular DIY project among hippies. Incorporating tie-dye shirts or dresses can add a playful element to your outfit.

5. Vintage Accessories

Accessories such as headbands, flower crowns, and large statement jewelry are vital to completing your hippie look.

Accessorizing Your Look

Accessories are crucial for enhancing your Sixties hippie girl style. Here’s how to accessorize effectively:

1. Jewelry

Beaded Necklaces: Layer various lengths of beaded necklaces for a bohemian touch.
Peace Sign Jewelry: Incorporate peace symbols into your jewelry collection to reflect the movement's ideals.
Chunky Rings: Opt for oversized rings with colorful stones or unique designs.

2. Headwear

Headbands made from fabric or flowers were popular among hippies. You can also try wearing a scarf as a head wrap for added flair.

3. Footwear

Comfortable sandals, clogs, or even barefoot looks were common. Remember, comfort is key in hippie fashion.

Makeup and Hairstyles

Makeup for Sixties hippie girls was minimal and natural. Here are some tips to achieve that effortless look:

Natural Skin: Focus on a fresh-faced look with minimal foundation and a hint of blush.
Bold Eyes: Think colorful eyeshadows and well-defined lashes, but keep the lips soft with natural shades.
Hair: Loose waves or braids adorned with flowers or headbands create an authentic hippie vibe.

Famous Hippie Icons and Their Styles

To understand the essence of Sixties hippie girl fashion, it's helpful to look at some of the era's most influential icons:

1. Janis Joplin

Known for her bohemian style, Janis often wore flowing dresses, oversized accessories, and had a unique flair for layering.

2. Joan Baez

Joan's style was characterized by simple and elegant pieces, often accessorized with beads or flower crowns.

3. Grace Slick

As the lead singer of Jefferson Airplane, Grace embodied the psychedelic style with bold prints and statement pieces.

Modern Takes on Hippie Fashion

Today, many fashion designers and brands draw inspiration from the Sixties hippie style. Modern interpretations include:

Ethical Fashion: Many brands focus on sustainable practices, aligning with the hippie ethos of living in harmony with nature.
Bohemian Chic: The bohemian style remains popular, often merging with contemporary fashion trends.
Festival Fashion: Music festivals continue to be a venue for hippie-inspired fashion, with attendees sporting vintage-inspired outfits.

Sustainable Fashion and the Hippie Ethos

The hippie movement was rooted in ideals of peace and environmentalism. Today, sustainable fashion reflects these values by promoting eco-friendly materials, ethical labor practices, and a focus on reducing waste. Here are some principles of sustainable fashion to consider:

Choose Vintage: Thrift shopping for vintage pieces not only reduces waste but also supports the style.
Support Ethical Brands: Look for brands that prioritize fair trade and sustainable practices.
DIY and Upcycle: Embrace creativity by modifying existing clothes or creating new items from old ones.

Conclusion

Dressing like a Sixties hippie girl is not just about the clothes you wear; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that values freedom, love, and respect for the planet. By understanding the key elements of hippie fashion, incorporating essential wardrobe pieces, and accessorizing mindfully, you can channel the spirit of the Sixties while making a statement in today’s fashion landscape. Remember, the most important aspect of hippie style is to express your individuality and stay true to your beliefs.

FAQs

1. What are the essential clothing items for a Sixties hippie girl look?

Essential items include maxi dresses, bell-bottom jeans, peasant blouses, and tie-dye clothing.

2. How can I accessorize my hippie outfit?

Layer beaded necklaces, wear peace sign jewelry, and opt for comfortable sandals or clogs.

3. What makeup style is best for a Sixties hippie girl?

Focus on a natural look with minimal foundation, colorful eyeshadow, and soft lip colors.

4. Who are some famous hippie icons?

Janis Joplin, Joan Baez, and Grace Slick are iconic figures known for their unique hippie styles.

5. How can I create a modern hippie outfit?

Combine vintage pieces with contemporary trends, and consider sustainable fashion practices.

6. Are there specific colors associated with hippie fashion?

Both bright colors and earthy tones are common in hippie fashion, often used in patterns like tie-dye.

7. Can I wear hippie fashion to formal events?

Yes, you can opt for elegant maxi dresses or bohemian blouses paired with stylish accessories for a formal occasion.

8. What hairstyles are popular in hippie culture?

Loose waves, braids adorned with flowers, and headbands are popular hairstyles in hippie culture.

9. How does hippie fashion align with sustainable practices?

Hippie fashion emphasizes natural materials and ethical practices, aligning closely with sustainable fashion principles.

10. Where can I find authentic hippie clothing today?

Look for vintage shops, thrift stores, and online marketplaces that specialize in retro and vintage clothing.

References

History of the Hippie Movement - History.com
Hippie | Definition, History, & Facts - Britannica
Sustainable Fashion Forum
The Good Trade - Sustainable Fashion