Era-Inspired Jewelry: The 1960s

The 1960s was a time of self-expression, feminism, and fabulous style. It’s the era you may have seen in Mad Men, the popular TV show known in part for its stunning wardrobe. Or you may remember celebrities, from Twiggy to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, celebrating new, bold styles or twists on classic ones. 

What do we love most about the style from the 1960s? It’s still in today! This period helped shape jewelry throughout the decades, and now we see vintage-inspired pieces that pull from the 1960s with an added modern edge. Below, we dive into some of the biggest trends from the 1960s and how you can show off your groovy side with our top Shane Co. recommendations. 

Bold Bangles

Bangles are one of the most popular trends from the 1960s. People wore chunky and thin bangles stacked on their arms for a fun style influenced by Eastern cultures. They also often matched bangles to their outfits — although the fashion of the 1960s wasn’t as prim and proper as the 1950s, people still enjoyed a put-together, coordinated look.

Bangles at Shane Co.

Nile Gemstone Bangle Bracelet

This gorgeous bangle is a surefire way to look like an icon straight out of the 1960s. Crafted from yellow gold, it features 23 round lavender and traditional blue sapphires. You can even get it engraved — maybe with your favorite quote from the 1960s.

Men’s Tiger Eye Bangle Bracelet

This men’s bangle is a perfect ode to the 1960s. Made with tiger eye beads, leather, and stainless steel, it reflects the natural influences of the hippie movement and adds a high-quality yet elemental accent to any man’s wardrobe.

Black-and-White Enamel

In a time of op art, short for “optical art,” the 1960s saw a lot of black-and-white jewelry that invokes a monochromatic, high-contrast feel. The era saw designers using more color, but it also saw a lot of black-and-white shades used with metals for a bold approach to modern jewelry.

Enamel Jewelry at Shane Co.

Black Enamel Diamond Hoop Earrings

Crafted from yellow gold and featuring six brilliant round natural diamonds, these modern hoops pair well with anything white enamel for a black-and-white look. If you’re interested in another color, though, you can also choose from pink, white, navy, or green enamel.

Floral Designs

With the hippie movement and the rise of flower power in the 1960s, people loved experimenting with nature-inspired jewelry designs. Florals were also a great way to incorporate color, which, in addition to black-and-white jewelry, was popular in this decade that paved the way toward individualism.

Floral Jewelry at Shane Co.

Pink Sapphire Flower Earrings

These beautiful flower earrings are crafted from quality rose gold. A round pink sapphire shines brightly at the center of the flower. The rosy shade and shape of this design practically scream the 1960s, so you’re sure to feel like a ’60s goddess while wearing them.

We recommend mixing and matching bangles, black-and-white enamel, and floral designs for a far-out look that totally captures the bold and often quirky style of the 1960s. To really embrace the decade, wear your 1960s jewelry with a colorful miniskirt, patterned blouse, and headband. Or, for traditional men’s fashion, try a plaid suit or a fitted knit polo to complete your vintage vibe (just add that bangle we mentioned). Continue shopping at Shane Co. to find more 1960s-inspired styles in addition to the latest trends and timeless classics.

Did we miss a 1960s trend you love? Let us know in the comments! And be sure to tag us on Instagram at @shanecompany with your favorite vintage-inspired designs.