18 Accessories Women Were Expected To Own By Age 18 In The ’60s

Ah, the 1960s—a vibrant era bursting with rock ‘n’ roll rhythms, groundbreaking cultural revolutions, and fashion choices bold enough to make even today’s most daring influencers blush.

For a young woman growing up in that unforgettable decade, her wardrobe was far more than just clothes—it was a vibrant expression of identity, rebellion, and elegance. Opening her closet felt like uncovering a treasure trove of chic sophistication and playful charm.

Each accessory held a story, a sparkle of personality, and a set of unwritten fashion rules passed down through magazines, movies, and stylish older sisters. From swinging London’s mod looks to the timeless grace of Audrey Hepburn-inspired ensembles, style was serious business.

So, grab your pearl necklace, slip on those perfectly winged cat-eye sunglasses, and prepare to relive the magic. We’re diving into the 18 must-have accessories every fashionable young lady was expected to own by the time she turned 18. Let’s take a groovy trip down memory lane!

1. White Gloves

For every proper occasion, white gloves were your trusty companions. Whether attending Sunday church or twirling at a dance, these gloves whispered sophistication with every handshake. No speck of dirt dared settle on their immaculate surface. Elegance was non-negotiable.

I remember peeking at my grandmother’s gloved hands, thinking they were the epitome of grace. In the ’60s, white gloves were like the social media filters of today, polishing every gesture to perfection. They were the unsung heroes of the wardrobe.

Owning a pair was akin to holding a social passport; they introduced you before you even uttered a word. With their soft fabric and delicate structure, they were both a statement and a comfort. Truly, these gloves were a lady’s silent ally in the journey of growing up.

2. Pearl Necklace

Nothing said ’60s sophistication quite like a pearl necklace. When you wore one, you weren’t just accessorizing—you were making a proclamation. Each pearl was a tiny heirloom, whispering tales of elegance and timeless style.

I recall seeing my mother don hers, the pearls glistening like stars against her black dress. It was a rite of passage, a silent nod to womanhood. Unlike today’s chunky statement pieces, these pearls were subtle yet powerful.

The necklace was more than just an accessory; it was a promise of grace. It was the ’60s equivalent of a little black dress—a staple, a necessity. With each pearl, you carried the weight of tradition and the lightness of effortless charm.

3. Compact Mirror

The compact mirror was your best friend for clandestine lipstick checks and not-so-clandestine ego boosts. In the ’60s, everyone knew a quick glance in your compact could restore confidence faster than you could say “beehive hairstyle.”

I inherited my first compact from my aunt, its engraved surface a testament to its cherished legacy. These mirrors were more than reflective surfaces; they were symbols of readiness, poised for any social engagement.

With a swift flick, you could adjust your lipstick, ensuring you remained radiant in all life’s moments. Beyond its practicality, it was a piece of art, often engraved or adorned, making it as much an accessory as a utility.

4. Hair Scarf

Ah, the hair scarf—a girl’s ticket to the world of style and spontaneity. Whether you were actually cruising in a convertible or simply pretending, a scarf added a dash of Hollywood flair.

I fondly remember tying one around my hair, feeling instantly transformed into a movie star escaping on a glamorous road trip. These scarves were versatile, as functional as they were fashionable.

Their bright colors and bold patterns made them the perfect companion for any outing. The hair scarf told the world you were ready for anything, a quick fix for any hair disaster or impromptu photo op. It was adventure defined in vibrant silk.

5. Charm Bracelet

Charm bracelets were like wearable diaries, each charm holding personal stories and milestones. In the ’60s, they jingled with life, announcing your arrival like a melodic symphony of memories.

I loved hearing the soft clinks as my wrist moved, each charm a tiny beacon of my experiences and dreams. Whether it was a tiny Eiffel Tower or a miniature locket, each piece resonated with significance.

These bracelets were more than just jewelry; they were a testament to individuality and cherished moments. They grew with you, collecting memories and adventures, making them the ultimate accessory for the sentimental soul.

6. Kitten Heels

Kitten heels were the ’60s way of saying “I’m mature, but not too mature.” With just a hint of height, they offered a delicate balance between youthful playfulness and ladylike elegance.

I remember my first pair vividly—sleek, black, and making me feel a foot taller in confidence. These shoes were perfect for any occasion where you wanted to elevate your stance without wobbling on stilts.

Practical yet stylish, they whispered sophistication and promised comfort. Ideal for those tentative steps into adulthood, kitten heels taught us that being grounded could still be glamorous.

7. Matching Purse and Shoes

In the ’60s, matching your purse and shoes was as crucial as breathing. This fashion rule was a testament to one’s coordination skills and dedication to style.

I used to marvel at my mother’s impeccable ability to pair her accessories flawlessly, a skill I aspired to master. The act of matching was more than fashion—it was a commitment to looking put-together.

Owning a matching set was like having a secret weapon against fashion faux pas. The cohesion spoke volumes, making even a simple dress look runway-ready. It was the epitome of coordinated elegance.

8. Cat-Eye Sunglasses

Cat-eye sunglasses could turn any day into a scene from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. They were the secret to channeling your inner Audrey or Jackie, projecting confidence and flair.

I recall slipping on a pair, feeling a surge of sass and sophistication. They were more than sun-blockers; they were identity statements, framing the face with a bold declaration of style.

With their sharp angles and daring designs, cat-eye sunglasses made every moment feel cinematic, offering a glimpse of the glamorous life we all dreamt of. They were not just accessories; they were style amplifiers.

9. Evening Clutch

The evening clutch was the unsung hero of my wardrobe. Small, sparkly, and always ready for a night out, it was the perfect blend of elegance and utility.

I remember my first evening clutch—beaded and just big enough to hold a lipstick and some dreams. It added a touch of glamour to any outfit, elevating the ordinary to the extraordinary.

These clutches were like secret keepers, holding onto your essentials while you danced the night away, ensuring that style never took a backseat. They were the perfect companions for any evening soirée, a testament to refining grace.

10. Lace Handkerchief

A lace handkerchief was the epitome of grace—a lady’s elegant accessory for dabbing tears or waving goodbyes. Often monogrammed, it offered a personal touch, whispering sophistication.

I always admired how my grandmother could conjure hers with such poise. While rarely used, it was a comfort to have, tucked neatly in a purse—a symbol of preparedness.

The handkerchief was more than just cloth; it was a nod to a gentler era, a graceful reminder of the understated elegance of days gone by. It was as much a part of the ensemble as the dress itself.

11. Brooch or Pin

Brooches and pins were the ’60s answer to self-expression. These tiny works of art adorned sweaters, coats, and dresses, each telling its own unique story.

I cherished the brooch passed down from my mother—a floral design that added a splash of personality to any outfit. It was more than just an accessory; it was a link to the past.

These adornments were conversation starters, symbols of family legacy, and artistic expressions. They brought life to clothing, ensuring every ensemble was a work of art in itself, reflecting personal style with a glint of creativity.

12. Headband or Alice Band

The headband was the ’60s crown—the final touch to a polished look. Preppy girls’ wardrobes were incomplete without a collection of these stylish accessories.

I loved the confidence boost a simple headband could provide, instantly tidying hair and adding an air of sophistication. It was the quintessential accessory for both school and social outings.

The versatility of these bands made them indispensable. From subtle tones to bold patterns, they were as much about practicality as they were about making a statement. They were the cherry on top of the fashionable sundae.

13. Stockings and Garter Belt

Before pantyhose took over, stockings and garter belts reigned supreme. These were not just about function; they were about feeling fabulous.

I remember the thrill of wearing my first garter belt, the sensation of luxury and maturity it brought. It was a rite of passage, a step into womanhood that pantyhose could never replicate.

This duo was a symbol of elegance and a nod to a more sophisticated time. They reminded us that sometimes, the foundations of an outfit were just as important as the outfit itself, if not more.

14. Compact Lipstick Case

A compact lipstick case was every girl’s secret weapon—perfect for quick touch-ups and building confidence on-the-go. Bonus points if it had a built-in mirror, a true marvel of design.

I still remember the thrill of my first lipstick case, its smooth metal cool against my palm. It was more than a holder; it was a symbol of maturity and readiness.

These cases were artistic, embodying the beauty of the era in both form and function. They whispered promises of glamour with each application, ensuring you were always prepared for life’s unexpected moments.

15. Hat for Church

A hat for church was more than just an accessory; it was a statement of reverence and style. Sunday best wasn’t complete without the perfect hat to crown your ensemble.

My grandmother had a collection of hats, each more beautiful than the last, their ribbons and lace telling stories of Sundays past. Wearing one felt like an honor, a nod to tradition.

These hats were not merely decorative; they were part of one’s identity. They elevated church-going attire to an art form, a testament to the elegance and grace of the era.

16. Bobby Pins by the Dozen

Bobby pins were the unsung heroes of the ’60s, holding every hair creation from bouffants to beehives in place. They were the invisible force behind every great hairstyle.

I can still feel the satisfaction of securing a pin just right, ensuring not a hair was out of place. These tiny tools were indispensable, hidden but critical in creating hair masterpieces.

They taught us that sometimes, it’s the unseen, hardworking elements that make all the difference. Bobby pins were the quiet champions of style, ensuring every hairdo stood the test of time and dance moves.

17. Coin Purse

A coin purse was a pocket-sized vault for dreams and change. Perfectly suited for jukebox plays and milkshakes, it was a girl’s companion for spontaneous adventures.

I loved the soft jingle of coins as I opened my purse, the promise of possibilities it held. It was more than practical; it was a symbol of independence.

Small but mighty, the coin purse was a testament to resourcefulness. It offered a taste of freedom, granting us control over our choices, one coin at a time, in a world where little things made big differences.

18. Perfume Atomizer

A perfume atomizer was the essence of glamour in a bottle. It transformed the ordinary act of applying perfume into a ritual of allure.

I remember watching my mother squeeze the bulb, a cloud of fragrance enveloping her like a mysterious aura. The atomizer was a piece of art, adding a touch of elegance to any vanity.

Beyond its function, it was about the experience—the gentle mist, the delicate scent. It encapsulated the allure and sophistication of the ’60s, making every day feel like a special occasion.