The 1960s was a revolutionary time for fashion and how we dress today. During this period, man-made fabrics began to rise in popularity, bringing with them sleek lines, durability and washability – perfect for creating stylish garments that could stand the test of time. Whether you’re an avid fashionista looking for some inspiration or simply curious about what popular materials ruled during this exciting decade - we have all the information you need to learn more about these incredible textiles!
Nylon sleepwear
The 1960s brought about a revolution in fabric. Nylon, the "wonder fabric," was popularized during that era due to its durability and ease of care. The wrinkle-free fabric quickly gained popularity among housewives and fashion designers alike, becoming a staple in many households. Even now, nylon remains a favorite material for clothing and home decor due to its longevity and resistance to stains. Its easy care properties make it an ideal choice for everyday wear, and its durability ensures that it can withstand the test of time. It's no wonder why 1960s fabrics, like nylon, continue to be a go-to choice for those looking for both convenience and style. We even make out Gigi petticoats from Nylon netting in 2023!
Gigi petticoat in pink - Sarsparilly
Acrylic, a synthetic fabric that emerged in the 1960s, has since become a favorite textile among fashion designers and consumers alike. This versatile material has the look and feel of wool, but at a fraction of the cost. Acrylic is lightweight, durable, and easy to care for, making it an ideal choice for everyday clothing items. It is also resistant to wrinkles, so it stays looking fresh and put-together even after a long day. The popularity of acrylic has not waned in the years since it was first introduced, and it continues to be a staple in the world of fashion and textiles.
A 60's era acrylic knit dress
Polyester is known for its durability and has been a popular fabric for decades. This synthetic fabric has been used in a variety of products ranging from clothing to home furnishings. However, it was specifically in the decade that polyester made its mark. Fashion was all about bold prints, bright colors, and statement pieces, and polyester was the ideal fabric to bring those looks to life. It was also a time when people were looking for more affordable options, and polyester offered just that. Its affordability, combined with its durability, made it a favorite among many and contributed to its reign as one of the most popular fabrics of the decade.
Polyster dresses in a ray of colours
Spandex is a revolutionary fabric that was created for one purpose - to provide unparalleled comfort and flexibility. This stretchy material has become a staple in the world of athletic wear, and for good reason. Spandex allows movement without restriction, making it perfect for workouts, yoga, and other activities that require a wide range of motion. But it's not just athletes who benefit from the comfort of spandex - anyone can enjoy the stretchy, form-fitting nature of this fabric. Whether you're lounging at home or running errands, spandex will move with you, providing complete freedom of movement. Once you try it, you'll never want to wear anything else.
Stretch pants, the pre-cursor to leggings!
Rayon is a fascinating material. It's neither fully synthetic nor entirely natural, but rather, a blend of both. This semi-synthetic fabric is created by treating cellulose fibers, typically sourced from wood pulp or bamboo, with chemicals. The result is a luxurious cloth with a smooth, silky texture that is often used in clothing and home textiles. It's a versatile fabric that can be dyed easily, and its lightweight composition makes it an ideal choice for summer garments. Despite its popularity, rayon is sometimes overlooked in the world of textiles for its less-than-eco-friendly production process. Nonetheless, rayon remains a top choice for many designers and consumers, thanks in part to its silky feel and luxurious drape.
The 1960s was a colourful decade for fabrics, and it’s easy to see why these materials continue to be popular today. Acrylic was the first synthetic fabric, it's appeared in numerous styles of clothing since its introduction and proved to be a stylish and durable option. Polyester also surged in popularity due to its resistance to wrinkling and fading, while Nylon helped revolutionize wardrobe staples such as hosiery and lingerie. Spandex contributed even more comfort, due to its ability to stretch with the changing body, while Rayon is still used today due to its breathability and smooth feel. All of these fabrics combined made the 1960s one of the most colorful decades for fashion! Overall, these fabrics have proven their reliability over time and still offer plenty of style options for the modern fashionista. Do you have any of these fabrics in your wardrobe? Let us know in the comments!