Embark on a sartorial journey to the groovy era of the 1960s, where free spirits reigned supreme. The hippie style, an iconic reflection of a countercultural movement, invites you to express your individuality and embrace a bohemian spirit. From flowing fabrics to vibrant patterns and eclectic accessories, this guide will guide you through the essential elements of dressing like a hippie, empowering you to channel your inner flower child and make a style statement.
At the heart of the hippie aesthetic lies a love for natural materials and earthy tones. Embrace breezy fabrics like cotton, linen, and hemp, which provide both comfort and a connection to nature. Opt for warm, inviting colors inspired by the elements, such as shades of brown, green, and orange. These hues evoke a sense of peace and harmony, reflecting the hippie belief in living in tune with the environment.
Accessorizing is an art form in hippie fashion. Let your imagination soar with an array of ethnic-inspired jewelry, such as beaded necklaces, chunky earrings, and headbands adorned with feathers or flowers. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles and materials, creating a unique and eclectic look. A fringed vest or a patchwork skirt can add a touch of bohemian flair, while a cozy poncho or a colorful scarf provides warmth and a hint of mystery.
Ubiquitous Tie-Dye
Tie-dye, a vibrant and iconic symbol of the hippie counterculture, has its roots in ancient dyeing techniques practiced in countries like India and Japan. During the 1960s and 1970s, the psychedelic patterns and rainbow-hued creations of tie-dye became a staple of hippie attire. Young people embraced its colorful expression as a rejection of societal norms and a celebration of individuality.
The process of tie-dye involves binding or twisting fabric into intricate patterns and then submerging it in a dye bath. The result is a kaleidoscope of colors and unique, swirling designs. Natural dyes derived from plants, such as indigo, turmeric, and madder, were traditionally used for tie-dye. However, in the modern era, synthetic dyes have become more prevalent, offering an array of vibrant hues.
Tie-dye garments transcend age, gender, and style boundaries. From flowy dresses and loose-fitting shirts to denim jackets and casual t-shirts, tie-dye adds a touch of bohemian flair to any wardrobe. Its popularity has endured through the decades, and it continues to inspire contemporary fashion designers and style enthusiasts alike, embodying the enduring legacy of the hippie movement.
Flowing Fabrics and Flares
When thinking of hippie fashion, flowing fabrics and flared silhouettes come to mind. These elements create a sense of freedom and movement, allowing for a wide range of expressive gestures and dance styles. Natural materials like cotton, linen, and silk were commonly used, as they were breathable and comfortable.
Flares and Patterns
Flared pants, skirts, and dresses were popular among hippies, with wide legs that flared out dramatically from the hips. These flared garments allowed for graceful twirling and dancing, becoming a symbol of the carefree and uninhibited spirit of the hippie movement. They were often adorned with colorful patterns, including intricate paisley designs, psychedelic swirls, and vibrant florals.
Paisley was a particularly popular pattern among hippies, its intricate swirls and teardrop shapes evoking a sense of exoticism and mysticism. Psychedelic swirls, inspired by the hallucinatory experiences of the time, created a kaleidoscopic effect, adding a touch of trippy flair to hippie clothing. Floral prints, with their cheerful colors and organic motifs, represented the connection with nature that was central to hippie culture.
| Pattern |
Description |
| Paisley |
Intricate swirls and teardrop shapes, evoking exoticism and mysticism |
| Psychedelic swirls |
Kaleidoscopic effect, inspired by hallucinatory experiences |
| Floral prints |
Cheerful colors and organic motifs, representing connection with nature |
Peace-Stamped Accessories
Accessories are the perfect way to add a touch of hippie style to any outfit. From peace-sign necklaces to embroidered headbands, there are endless ways to accessorize like a hippie. Here are a few of our favorite peace-stamped accessories:
Necklaces
Peace-sign necklaces are a classic hippie accessory. They can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and leather. Some peace-sign necklaces even feature gemstones or other embellishments.
Earrings
Peace-sign earrings are another great way to add a touch of hippie style to your outfit. They can be small and delicate or large and statement-making. Peace-sign earrings are a great way to add a touch of fun and personality to any look.
Headbands
Embroidered headbands are a perfect way to keep your hair out of your face while adding a touch of bohemian flair to your outfit. They can be made from a variety of fabrics, including cotton, silk, and velvet. Some embroidered headbands even feature beads or other embellishments.
| Material | Style | Embellishments |
|—|—|—|
| Metal | Pendant | Gemstones, crystals |
| Wood | Carved | Leather, fringe |
| Leather | Stamped | Beads, tassels |
| Cotton | Embroidered | Lace, ribbons |
| Silk | Beaded | Feathers, shells |
| Velvet | Printed | Chains, charms |
Handmade Craftsmanship
Hippie fashion embraced the art of handmade craftsmanship. Clothing was often adorned with intricate embroidery, beadwork, and macrame knots. Artisans created colorful and unique pieces that reflected their individual style. They used natural materials like cotton, hemp, and leather, and took pride in the quality of their work. The handmade touch added a personal and authentic element to hippie attire.
Embroidery
Embroidery was a popular way to embellish clothing. Hippies created intricate patterns with colorful thread, using a variety of stitches and techniques. They often incorporated symbols such as flowers, peace signs, and celestial motifs into their designs.
Beadwork
Beads added a vibrant and bohemian touch to hippie clothing. Artisans used a variety of beads, from colorful glass to semi-precious stones, to create necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. They also used beading to embellish clothing, creating eye-catching details and patterns.
Macrame Knots
Macrame knots were used to create intricate and decorative pieces. Hippies used macrame to make everything from jewelry to wall hangings. The complex knots and patterns added a touch of exotic flair to their attire.
| Craft |
Description |
| Embroidery |
Intricate patterns created with colorful thread |
| Beadwork |
Vibrant and bohemian accessories made with beads |
| Macrame Knots |
Complex and decorative pieces made with knotted cords |
Natural Fibers and Earthy Hues
Hippie fashion is all about embracing natural materials and earthy tones that evoke a sense of peace and harmony with nature. Here are some guidelines to help you achieve a natural, bohemian look:
Cotton
Cotton is a breathable, soft, and absorbent natural fiber that’s perfect for comfortable, flowy clothing. It’s commonly used in loose-fitting dresses, shirts, and pants.
Linen
Linen is a strong, durable, and airy natural fiber that drapes beautifully. It’s ideal for summer attire like loose-fitting pants, blouses, and skirts.
Hemp
Hemp is an incredibly strong and sustainable natural fiber that’s often used in durable fabrics like clothing, bags, and shoes.
Silk
Silk is a luxurious and lightweight natural fiber that adds a touch of elegance to hippie attire. It’s commonly used in flowy dresses, blouses, and scarves.
Wool
Wool is a warm and insulating natural fiber that’s perfect for cold-weather clothing. It’s often used in sweaters, coats, and accessories.
Brown | Yellow
These colors represent the earthy tones of nature, creating a grounding and calming effect. Brown is associated with stability and strength, while yellow evokes joy and optimism.
Green | Blue
These colors connect you to the natural beauty of plants and water. Green is a symbol of growth and renewal, while blue evokes serenity and peace.
Orange | Pink
These colors add a touch of warmth and playfulness to your attire. Orange is energetic and stimulating, while pink represents love and compassion.
| Color |
Meaning |
| Brown |
Stability, strength |
| Yellow |
Joy, optimism |
| Green |
Growth, renewal |
| Blue |
Serenity, peace |
| Orange |
Energy, stimulation |
| Pink |
Love, compassion |
Headbands and Feather Crowns
Headbands and feather crowns were staple accessories for hippies, adding bohemian flair and a touch of whimsy to their style. Here are some common types:
Fabric Headbands
Headbands made from colorful, patterned fabrics such as paisley, floral, or ethnic prints were ubiquitous among hippies. They often tied around the back of the head with a bow or knot.
Leather Headbands
Headbands crafted from leather or suede were another popular choice, often adorned with beads, feathers, or metal studs. They exuded a more rugged and earthy vibe.
Beaded Headbands
Headbands strung with beads in various colors, shapes, and sizes were a vibrant and eye-catching addition to hippie ensembles. They could be made from plastic, glass, or natural materials like wood or bone.
Feather Crowns
Feather crowns were a symbol of freedom and spirituality for hippies. They featured an array of vibrant feathers, often from exotic birds, arranged in a headdress style. Each crown was a unique work of art, reflecting the individual’s personality and style.
| Feather Crown Variations |
|
Traditional Native American-inspired crowns with intricate feather work
|
|
Crowns with a mix of animal furs, beads, and crystals
|
|
Crowns made from peacock feathers for their iridescent beauty
|
Layered and Loose Clothing
Hippie fashion is characterized by its relaxed and bohemian style. Clothing is often loose-fitting, made from natural materials, and adorned with ethnic or psychedelic patterns. Layering is also common, allowing for adaptability to changing temperatures and the creation of unique personal style.
Materials
Natural materials such as cotton, linen, and hemp are commonly used in hippie clothing. These materials are breathable, comfortable, and drape well, contributing to the relaxed and flowy aesthetic.
Colors and Patterns
Hippie fashion embraces a vibrant and eclectic range of colors and patterns. Earth tones and subdued hues coexist with bold and psychedelic prints. Common patterns include paisley, tie-dye, batik, and ethnic motifs.
Shapes and Silhouettes
Loose and flowy silhouettes are a hallmark of hippie fashion. Clothing such as peasant blouses, bell-bottom jeans, and flowing skirts allow for freedom of movement and enhance the ethereal quality of the style.
Tops
Hippie tops are often loose and flowing, with details such as ruffled sleeves, embroidery, and ethnic prints. Peasant blouses, tunics, and bandanas are common choices.
Bottoms
Hippie bottoms are typically wide and flared, such as bell-bottom jeans, palazzo pants, and flowing skirts. Denim, cotton, and corduroy are popular materials.
| Type |
Characteristic |
| Bell-bottom jeans |
Flared from the knee down |
| Palazzo pants |
Wide, flowing legs |
| Flowing skirts |
Loose and gathered fabric |
Embroidered and Beaded Details
Embroidered and beaded details are a key part of the hippie aesthetic. They can be found on clothing, accessories, and even shoes. Hippie embroidery and beading often features intricate patterns and bright colors. The most popular motifs include flowers, animals, and peace symbols.
Here are some tips for incorporating embroidered and beaded details into your hippie wardrobe:
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match different colors and patterns.
- Look for clothing and accessories with unique and interesting details.
- Accessorize with embroidered or beaded jewelry.
Here are some specific examples of embroidered and beaded details that you can look for when shopping for hippie clothing:
| Embroidery |
Beading |
- Flowers
- Animals
- Peace symbols
- Geometric patterns
|
- Glass beads
- Metal beads
- Wooden beads
- Bone beads
|
Vintage and Repurposed Items
Embracing vintage and repurposed clothing is a core element of the hippie aesthetic. By giving new life to pre-loved items, you contribute to sustainability while creating a unique, eclectic style.
1. Find Value in Thrift Stores
Thrift stores are treasure troves for vintage gems. Explore their racks and bins for retro dresses, flared pants, embroidered tops, and colorful scarves.
2. Upcycle and Repurpose
Don’t be afraid to give worn-out items a second chance. Transform old T-shirts into tie-dyed creations or revamp a simple skirt with patchwork and embroidery.
3. Seek Out Vintage Boutiques
Support local businesses by visiting vintage boutiques. They often specialize in curated collections of clothing, accessories, and home decor from specific eras.
4. Attend Flea Markets
Stroll through flea markets for hidden vintage gems. You may find one-of-a-kind jewelry, quirky pieces, and unique artifacts.
5. Involve Friends and Family
Ask friends and family if they have any vintage clothing they’d be willing to donate or lend. You might be surprised by the treasures they have stashed away.
6. Repair and Restore
Vintage items often need a little TLC. Learn basic sewing skills to mend torn seams, replace buttons, or give new life to faded fabrics.
7. Access Online Marketplaces
Explore online marketplaces like Etsy and Depop for a wide selection of vintage and repurposed clothing. Set filters to narrow down your search to specific styles or eras.
8. DIY Projects
Channel your creativity by creating your own hippie-inspired clothing. Use peace signs, tie-dye, or fringe as inspiration for T-shirts, skirts, or accessories.
9. Hippie-Themed Clothing Subscriptions
| Name |
Description |
| The Hippie Shop |
Curated boxes of vintage and repurposed clothing, accessories, and home decor. |
| Groovy Threads |
Monthly subscription featuring a mix of vintage and handmade hippie-inspired pieces. |
| Peace and Love Box |
Quarterly boxes filled with a variety of hippie-themed clothing, jewelry, and accessories. |
Freedom and Individuality in Expression
Hippie fashion symbolized a departure from societal norms, embracing personal expression and individuality. Their clothing conveyed a message of peace, love, and a desire to break free from the constraints of conventional fashion.
1. Flowing Fabrics and Loose Garments
Hippies favored flowing fabrics and loose-fitting garments that allowed for freedom of movement and a relaxed, comfortable style.
2. Vibrant Colors and Patterns
Their clothing was known for its vibrant colors and bold patterns, reflecting a love of nature and a playful spirit.
3. Tie-Dye and Patchwork
Tie-dye and patchwork were popular techniques used to create unique and colorful designs, symbolizing a rejection of mass-produced clothing.
4. Natural Materials
Hippies preferred natural materials such as cotton, linen, and hemp, which were both comfortable and environmentally conscious.
5. Ethnic and Indigenous Influences
Hippie fashion drew inspiration from ethnic and indigenous cultures around the world, incorporating elements like embroidery, beading, and loose-fitting tunics.
6. Handmade Accessories
Handmade accessories, such as jewelry made from beads, shells, and feathers, added a personal touch to their outfits.
7. Fringe and Tassels
Fringe and tassels were common features on hippie clothing, adding a bohemian and playful touch.
8. Floral Motifs
Floral motifs were widely used in hippie fashion, reflecting a love of nature and a peaceful, carefree lifestyle.
9. Peace and Love Symbols
Peace and love symbols, such as the peace sign and the flower power symbol, were often incorporated into hippie clothing as a statement of their values.
10. Gender Fluidity and Androgyny
Hippie fashion challenged traditional gender roles, embracing androgyny and blurring the lines between masculine and feminine clothing styles.
Symbolism of Hippie Clothing
| Symbol |
Meaning |
| Flowing fabrics |
Freedom and ease |
| Vibrant colors |
Joy and optimism |
| Tie-dye |
Individuality and creativity |
| Natural materials |
Environmental consciousness |
| Peace and love symbols |
Antiwar and peace movement |
How To Dress Like A Hippie
The hippie subculture emerged in the 1960s as a counterculture movement that rejected mainstream societal norms and values. Hippies embraced individuality, free love, peace, and environmentalism, and their fashion choices reflected these ideals.
If you want to dress like a hippie, there are a few key pieces that you’ll need. First, you’ll need some tie-dye clothing. Tie-dye is a psychedelic dyeing technique that was popular among hippies in the 1960s, and it’s still a popular way to add some color and individuality to your wardrobe. You can find tie-dye clothing in a variety of styles, from t-shirts and dresses to pants and skirts.
Another key piece of hippie fashion is the peasant blouse. Peasant blouses are typically made from lightweight, flowing fabrics, and they often feature puffed sleeves and embroidered details. They’re a great way to add a touch of femininity to your hippie look.
In addition to tie-dye clothing and peasant blouses, you’ll also need some flared pants or jeans. Flared pants were popular in the 1960s and 1970s, and they’re a great way to add some retro flair to your hippie outfit. You can find flared pants in a variety of colors and fabrics, so you can find a pair that fits your personal style.
Finally, no hippie outfit is complete without some accessories. Some popular hippie accessories include headbands, sunglasses, and jewelry. Headbands are a great way to keep your hair out of your face, and they can also add a touch of style to your outfit. Sunglasses are a must-have for any hippie, and they can help you protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Jewelry is a great way to add some personality to your hippie outfit, and you can find a variety of hippie-inspired jewelry, such as peace signs, flowers, and beads.
People Also Ask About How To Dress Like A Hippie
How Did Hippies Dress?
Hippies dressed in a variety of colorful and unique clothing, including tie-dye shirts, peasant blouses, flared pants, and headbands. They often wore handmade clothing and jewelry, and they favored natural fabrics such as cotton and hemp.
What Is Hippie Style Clothing?
Hippie style clothing is characterized by its bright colors, flowing fabrics, and unique details. It often includes tie-dye, peasant blouses, flared pants, headbands, and jewelry. Hippie style clothing is often handmade and made from natural fabrics.
How Can I Dress Like A Modern Hippie?
To dress like a modern hippie, you can incorporate some of the classic hippie fashion elements into your own personal style. This could include wearing tie-dye clothing, flared pants, or headbands. You can also add some hippie-inspired accessories, such as peace signs, flowers, or beads.
