The 1960s' hippie fashion comprised apparel that would probably appeal to only the youth of today. The baby boomers, also called the flower children, did not hesitate to flaunt flowers in their hair, much like the customs and sights of the Orient. In the west, the hippies also indulged in body painting, body piercing, and tattoo body art. Not much of this was ever appreciated by the older generation. The men sported long, loose flowing hair, like the women. The 'free look' comprised not focusing on what others thought of their self-expression through apparel, believing in 'equality for all' and protesting against social evils. The hippies fashion statement was a rage with the youth. It showed signs of fading out as they grew older. They pretty much lived up to The Days of Our Youth are the Days of Our Glory! Unlike the formal business environment today, way back in the 1960s', the hippies fashion trends offered clothing for work and leisure a very informal and casual look.
The fashion clothing was a form of counterculture and nonconformist. The personal expressions of people and the times resulted in easily recognizable styles that made a major impact on the contemporary world. The fashion was derived along the 'anything goes' line. Hipsters and bell-bottom jeans, ankle fringes, flower patches and peasant blouses were all part of the fray. T-shirts and skimpy halter-neck tops were part of everyday wear. Women wore long skirts and dresses that redefined what was 'acceptable'. The hemlines were difficult to digest for the conservatives of the era and the micro and mini skirts were a cultural shock. Short skirts were worn with knee-high boots, while the long flowing skirts were considered better matched with sandals. Flowing ribbons in the hair or the dress was nothing unusual. Flowers strongly emphasized the hippie movement. They were used to represent peace and love. Tired of the toll that World War II took on culture and economy, the hippies sported floral patterns on dresses and skirts and jeans. Artificial flower tiaras and real flowers were worn in the hair.