Intense colour and abstract patterns are typical features of psychedelic designs influenced by the effects of hallucinogenic drugs like LSD. Fashions in the mid to late sixties were led by the young - they had more disposable income and more freedom to spend it than any other generation before them.
The miniskirt was enthusiastically welcomed by the young post-war generation and was accompanied by the arrival of tights. Shorter skirt lengths were worn with either high boots or low-heeled pumps.
Men's suits at this time featured a shirt, boxlike jacket with narrow lapels and close-fitting trousers in lightweight fabrics. Suit colours were in lighter and brighter shades of greys, blues and browns - while the inside lining might reveal a psychedelic design. The narrowing of trousers during the decade led to changes in footwear and a variety of boots became popular. Young men's clothes were also influenced by pop stars like the Beatles. Trendy boutiques such as Bazaar, Granny Takes A Trip, Apple Boutique, Apple Tailoring and Mr Fish were some of the more iconic places in London - the epicentre of fashion in the 60s, to shop and be seen.
If you want to own a piece of vintage psychedelic fashion or purchase something new with a nod to the design, see below for my picks to take note of. -KL Stylist.
Printed midaxi dress, M&S, £59. Wear with ankle boots or trainers. Throw on a cropped navy wool peacoat. Perfect
Kiwis knit dress, House of Sunny, £115. Wear with the matching sleeves for whenever you feel a bit of a chill. Brilliant.
Satin print trousers, Kitri, £40. Wear with a solid coloured top so the trousers get all the attention. Style with sleek ankle boots for day or strappy sandals for evening. Easy!
Vintage shirt dress, eBay, £50. I love the large pointed colllar and design. This would be great with a simple leather blazer and over-the-knee boots. Gorgeous.
Floral swirl top, Kitri, £35. This top reminds me of '60s designs by American fashion designer Ken Scott - one of the first with psychedelic prints.
This would look lovely over a bikini worn with heeled mules. Genius.
'70s Co-ord set, Etsy, £55. This on-trend vintage co-ord in a striking psychedelic print is the perfect piece for hanging out by the pool and for drinks come evening. Wear a silk head scarf in a striking colour then layer on the accessories - cocktail rings, big statement earrings, layered gold necklaces and lots of bangles. Sorted.