HIPPIE LOOK

A fashion trend born in San Francisco, California, in the mid-1960s, the hippie look was in direct contrast to fashion as it had been known. It emanated from the "flower child generation" whose philosophy of free love, drugs, peace, multiculturism and international inclusion, and going back to nature affected fashion worldwide. It celebrated freedom of choice in all forms—clothing being the most visual.Vintagewas "in," individualism was "in," and having a maledesignerdictate what a woman should wear was "out." Peasant looks, embroideries, tent shapes, and tie-dye were definable elements of this individualist look.Marijuana leaves, psychedelic patterns and colors, and the peace symbol were clear fashion statements of a pop culture whose tentacles deeply affected music, politics, and moral values on a global scale.

Vintage dressing crossed all social classes. It was no longer a statement of nonaffordability. It created an equal playing field in the world of fashion for the first time in history. And as vintage stores became a shopping destination, designers sought creative solutions to their lost customer base. One couture designer up for the challenge wasYves Saint Laurent, who in 1960 created theBeat lookfor the house of Dior. The fashion world was becoming more and more connected to the various forces that deeply influenced its inner core; by the turn of the century, multiculturalism, ethnic identity, environmental commitment, and a society secure in who it was shaped fashion and the business of fashion as never before.

See alsoDior, Christian; Haute Couture.