13 Fashion Faux Pas From the 1960s That Are Actually Making a Comeback

Fashion is cyclical, unpredictable, and constantly reinventing itself. What was once considered a bold misstep in the swinging ‘60s is now being reimagined and embraced by today’s style-conscious crowd. The era, known for psychedelic prints, daring silhouettes, and unconventional materials, saw trends that were both experimental and controversial.

Yet, as modern designers dip into the past for inspiration, these so-called faux pas are making an unapologetic return—often with a contemporary twist. Let’s take a look at 13 once-mocked trends that are now coming back into the fashion spotlight.

1. Psychedelic Prints

Back in the ‘60s, psychedelic prints, bursting with neon colors and swirling patterns, were synonymous with counterculture rebellion. While some admired their boldness, others dismissed them as too chaotic and over-the-top.

Now, these kaleidoscopic designs are making a fearless comeback, with high-fashion brands incorporating them into dresses, blouses, and even accessories.

The modern approach balances the wild prints with sleek silhouettes and neutral pairings, proving that bold can still be beautiful.

2. Bell-Bottom Trousers

Once considered a fashion statement for hippies and rock stars, bell-bottoms were seen as too exaggerated and impractical for mainstream wear. Their dramatic flared shape made them a divisive trend.

Today, bell-bottoms are back with a vengeance, reworked with modern tailoring and refined fabrics. Whether paired with a fitted blazer or cropped top, they now create a chic, elongated silhouette.

Nostalgia meets contemporary cool, and the result? A retro revival that actually works.

3. Plastic Fantastic

The 1960s were obsessed with futuristic fashion, which led to the rise of plastic clothing and accessories. While designers at the time envisioned it as the fabric of the future, the reality was that these pieces were stiff, sweaty, and far from comfortable.

Fast forward to today, and plastic-inspired fashion has evolved into sustainable, innovative materials. Transparent raincoats, vinyl handbags, and PVC boots bring an edgy, modern twist to this once-ridiculed trend.

What was once a novelty is now a symbol of innovation and eco-conscious design.

4. Mini Skirts

The mini skirt was a scandalous shock to the conservative 1960s, with many dismissing it as too provocative. It challenged traditional modesty and quickly became a symbol of youthful rebellion.

Now, mini skirts are a staple in high fashion and streetwear, worn with oversized blazers, chunky boots, or sleek heels.

No longer seen as shocking, they are celebrated for their bold, empowering aesthetic—proving that some trends never truly go out of style.

5. Go-Go Boots

Go-go boots, those iconic knee-high, often white patent leather boots, were once seen as flashy and impractical, reserved for nightclubs and stage performances rather than everyday fashion.

Today, they’re back with a modern edge, available in a variety of colors, heights, and materials. Designers have embraced their retro charm, pairing them with everything from flirty skirts to structured pantsuits.

The result? A statement-making look that blends vintage mod with modern chic.

6. Tie-Dye

During the 1960s, tie-dye was synonymous with counterculture and DIY fashion, often dismissed as messy, childish, or too casual for serious style.

Now, tie-dye has undergone a sophisticated transformation, appearing in elevated designs, muted color palettes, and high-end fabrics.

It’s no longer just a festival trend—it’s on runways, in designer collections, and even in luxury loungewear.

7. Beaded Accessories

Once a hippie-style staple, beaded necklaces, earrings, and even handbags were considered kitschy and overly bohemian by mainstream fashion lovers.

Now, beads are back in a big way, celebrated for their handcrafted aesthetic and playful charm.

Whether it’s delicate beaded chokers or bold, oversized statement pieces, this trend proves that fashion loves a touch of nostalgia with a modern twist.

8. Fringe Fashion

Fringe was once a daring, free-spirited look, popularized by Western films and bohemian culture. But in the late ‘60s, it was often criticized for being too theatrical and over-the-top.

Fast forward to today, and fringe is back with a refined, high-fashion twist. Modern designers incorporate it into jackets, dresses, and handbags, adding movement and texture without overwhelming the outfit.

Instead of looking outdated, it now adds a touch of playful sophistication.

9. Round Sunglasses

Round sunglasses, famously worn by John Lennon and other counterculture icons, were once dismissed as quirky, impractical, and overly retro. Many saw them as a niche trend rather than a mainstream staple.

Today, they’ve made a powerful comeback, embraced by celebrities, influencers, and designers alike.

With modern frame materials, tinted lenses, and sleek designs, they add a touch of vintage cool with contemporary flair.

10. Neon Colors

The 1960s embraced bold, electrifying neon shades, making them a symbol of youthful rebellion. But for years, these highlighter-bright hues were seen as too loud, too garish, and too much.

Now, neon is back with a vengeance, appearing in sportswear, street style, and even high fashion.

Whether it’s a pop of neon green in sneakers or a bold pink blazer, designers are proving that vibrant hues can be both edgy and elegant.

11. Shift Dresses

The simple, straight-cut shift dress was a staple of 1960s fashion, but some criticized it for lacking shape and femininity. Unlike more structured silhouettes, it was seen as too plain and boxy.

Today, shift dresses are celebrated for their effortless elegance. Designers now enhance them with bold prints, intricate embroidery, and luxurious fabrics, turning what was once deemed too simple into a timeless wardrobe essential.

12. Patterned Tights

Patterned tights, featuring everything from floral motifs to geometric designs, were a playful part of 1960s fashion. But for decades, they were considered too eccentric, too busy, and better left in the past.

Now, they’re back with a fresh, modern twist. Fashionistas pair them with minimalist outfits, statement skirts, and sleek dresses, proving that a little pattern on your legs can add a lot of personality to an outfit.

13. Oversized Sunglasses

Dramatic, oversized sunglasses were a signature accessory of ‘60s fashion icons like Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn. But over time, they were labeled as too exaggerated, too impractical, and even comical.

Now, they’ve reclaimed their place as a must-have accessory, adding a touch of vintage glamour and mystery to any outfit.

Whether in classic black, bold colors, or with gradient lenses, oversized sunglasses are proof that some trends are simply too chic to stay in the past.