The 1960s marked a significant shift in Indian fashion, particularly for students and young women. While “filmi” styles often differed from everyday wear, certain trends emerged that defined the era. Churidars paired with short, fitted kurtas or tunics and delicate dupattas were a common sight on young women, offering a comfortable yet stylish option.
Sarees also underwent a transformation. Blouses became shorter, often sleeveless, and featured intricate details like ribbon ties at the back. The three-quarter sleeve blouse, particularly popular in the early 1960s, typically featured a wide neckline.
Pastel-colored plain sarees, frequently adorned with embroidered or painted borders, were favored for special occasions. These elegant sarees often appeared in films, showcasing a more glamorous side of 1960s fashion. For everyday wear, handloom cotton or printed sarees were the norm, as depicted in both documentaries and movies of the time.
Summer attire typically consisted of light fabrics and vibrant colors. As temperatures dropped, women would transition to silk sarees and add coats or cardigans for warmth. The late 1960s hinted at the blouse styles that would dominate the 1970s, while remnants of 1950s fashion lingered in some outfits. The documentary also reveals the prevalence of 60s shift dresses and skirt-blouse combinations among young women, alongside traditional rural costumes that differed significantly from urban trends. These diverse influences contributed to a vibrant and evolving fashion landscape in 1960s India.
