There's something about the early 60s that keeps pulling me back — a moment when men's style balanced sharp tailoring with a relaxed ease that's hard to find today. Whether you're drawn to the Ivy League prep of the Rat Pack or the beatnik cool of Greenwich Village, 60s style for men offers a treasure trove of pieces that still look fresh. Let's break down the essentials and how to make them work for you.
The Ivy League Foundation
If you want to build a wardrobe around 60s style for men, start with the Ivy League look. The key pieces are a well-tailored sport coat (think three-roll-two or natural shoulder), a button-down oxford cloth shirt, and chinos in khaki or olive. Brand-wise, vintage Brooks Brothers is gold — I've scored 60s-era sack suits for under $50 at estate sales. The fit should be trim through the shoulders but not snug, with trousers that break just above the shoe. Avoid anything too tight; the 60s silhouette was lean but not skinny.
Knitwear and Outerwear
A Shetland sweater in a muted tartan or solid heather is a 60s staple that works as well today as it did then. Look for vintage Pendleton or modern equivalents from brands like Howlin' or O'Connell's. For outerwear, the Harrington jacket — think Baracuta G9, the one Steve McQueen wore — is perfect. New versions run $250-$400, but you can find vintage for $80-$150 if you hunt. The key is the fit: cropped to the waist, with a ribbed hem and collar that stands up sharp.
Footwear and Accessories
You can't do 60s style for men without the right shoes. Beefroll loafers (Bass Weejuns are king), desert boots (Clarks originals, $100-$130 new), and plain-toe bluchers are the trifecta. For a dressier look, try a pair of blucher moccasins or chukka boots. Accessories are where you can really dial in the period: a knit tie in navy or burgundy, a cotton pocket square in a slight contrast, and a pair of Wayfarer sunglasses. Vintage ties are cheap — I rarely pay more than $15 at thrift shops — and they add instant character.
Where to Shop and How to Pair
Building a 60s wardrobe doesn't mean raiding a costume shop. Hit thrift stores and online vintage sellers like Etsy and Vinted. Look for Brooks Brothers tags, J. Press, or even thrifted separates that capture the proportions. When pairing, resist the urge to wear everything at once. A 60s sport coat over a modern white t-shirt and raw denim jeans works beautifully. Or pair a vintage oxford with off-white chinos and desert boots for a relaxed weekend look. The goal is influence, not imitation.
Mastering the 60s Color Palette and Texture
A crucial part of nailing 60s style for men is understanding the colors and fabrics that defined the era. While the 60s had bold moments, the everyday palette was surprisingly restrained: olive, navy, tan, charcoal, and burgundy. These shades work together seamlessly. A Shetland sweater in olive pairs with navy chinos and tan desert boots. A burgundy knit tie adds a pop of color against a white oxford and charcoal jacket. The fabrics matter too — tweed, flannel, oxford cloth, and Shetland wool are all period-appropriate. Avoid modern synthetic blends if possible; 100% cotton or wool is key to the authentic drape. When shopping vintage, feel the fabric — a heavy flannel or rough Shetland is exactly right. For sourcing new, look to brands like J. Crew's Wallace & Barnes line, which reproduces 60s cuts in proper materials. A pair of olive cotton chinos from them cost around $80, but you can find similar vintage pairs for $20-30 with patience. Remember, 60s style for men relies on subtlety — a mix of textures (oxford vs. flannel, leather vs. wool) creates depth without trying. So when you're assembling an outfit, think about not just color but the hand of the fabric. A brushed cotton shirt over a tweed jacket, with smooth leather shoes, gives a rich look that's distinctly 60s.
One common mistake is adding bright neons or pastels that scream 80s rather than 60s. Stick to muted earth tones and jewel tones. Even a bright red tie should be toned down — think oxblood, not fire-engine. And avoid any piece with a modern logo or visible branding; the 60s look was understated. If you're unsure, start with an all-neutral base and add one period accent — that keeps the vintage feel without overwhelming.
Putting It All Together
Start with one cornerstone piece — a Shetland sweater or a Harrington jacket — and build from there. The beauty of 60s style for men is that it doesn't demand a full costume; a single well-chosen piece can lift an entire outfit. I've seen a guy in a thrifted baracuta, faded Levis, and clean white sneakers look more put-together than someone in a brand-new suit. That's the magic. Every stitch has a story, and the best stories are worn, not bought.
So next time you're digging through a dusty rack, keep an eye out for that narrow lapel, that crisp oxford cloth, those unlined brogues. The 60s gave us a blueprint for dressing with character without trying too hard. And that's a style that never goes out of fashion.
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