Double Monk Strap

Swinging Sixties – British Fashion Designers

As the swinging sixties is famous worldwide for many things British including Fashion I thought I would tell its history and mention some of the most famous names in British fashion. At the start of the 60's, skirts were knee-length, but steadily became shorter and shorter until the mini-skirt emerged in 1965. By the end of the decade they had shot well above the stocking top, making the transition to tights inevitable.

Many of the radical changes in fashion developed in the streets of London, with such gifted designers as Mary Quant (known for launching the mini skirt) and Barbara Hulanicki (the founder of the legendary boutique Biba). After designer Mary Quant introduced the mini-skirt in 1964, fashions in the 1960s were changed forever. The mini skirt was eventually to be worn by nearly every stylish young female in the western world.

The main outlets for these new young fashion designers were small boutiques, selling outfits that were not exactly 'one-offs', but were made in small quantities in a limited range of sizes and colors. However, not all designers took well to the new style and mood.

The basic shape and style of the time was simple, neat, clean cut, and young. Synthetic fabrics were very widely-used during the Sixties. They took dyes easily and well, giving rise to colors that were both clear and bright, very much mirroring the mood of the period. Hats suffered a great decline and by the end of the decade they were relegated to special occasions only. Lower kitten heels were a pretty substitute to stilettos. Pointed toes gave way to chisel shaped toes in 1961 and to an almond toe in 1963. Flat boots also became popular with very short dresses in 1965 and eventually they rose up the leg and reached the knee.

The principal change in menswear in the '60s was in the weight of the fabric used. The choice of materials and the method of manufacture produced a suit that, because it was lighter in weight, had a totally different look, with a line that was closer to the natural shape of the body, causing men to look at their figures more critically. The spread of jeans served to accelerate a radical change in the male wardrobe. Young men grew their hair down to their collars and added a touch of color, and even floral motifs, to their shirts.

The polo neck never succeeded in replacing the tie, but the adoption of the workman's jacket in rough corduroy. As the suits drifted away from pale, toned shades, menswear was now bright and colourful. It included frills and cravats, wide ties and trouser straps, leather boots and even collarless jackets. Ties were worn even five inches wide, with crazy prints, stripes and patterns. Casual dress consisted of plaid button down shirts with comfortable slacks.

The hippie movement late in the decade also exerted a strong influence on ladies' clothing styles, including bell-bottom jeans, tie-dye and batik fabrics, as well as paisley prints.

In the early to mid-1960s, the London Modernists known as the Mods were shaping and defining popular fashion for young British men while the trends for both sexes changed more frequently than ever before in the history of fashion and would continue to do so throughout the decade. The leaders of 1960s style were the British. The Mods were characterized by their choice of style different from the 1950s and revealed new fads that would be imitated by many young people. As a level of the middle social class known as the Mods, controlled the ins and outs of fashion in London, 1960s fashion set the mode for the rest of the century as it became marketed mainly to youth. Modernists formed their own way of life creating television shows and magazines that focused directly on the lifestyles of Mods.

British rock bands such as The Who, The Small Faces and The Kinks emerged from the Mod subculture. The Mods were known for the Modern Jazz they listened to as they showed their new styles off at local cafes. They worked at the lower end of the work force, usually nine to five jobs leaving time for clothes, music, and clubbing. It was not until 1964 when the Modernists were truly recognized by the public that women really were accepted in the group. Girls had short, clean haircuts and often dressed in similar styles to the male Mods. The Mods' lifestyle and musical tastes were the exact opposite of their rival group known as the.

The rockers liked 1950s rock-and roll, wore black leather jackets, greased, pompadour hairstyles, and rode motorbikes. The look of the Mods was classy; they mimicked the clothing and hairstyles of high fashion designers in France and Italy; opting for tailored suits, which were topped by anoraks that became their trademark. They rode on scooters, usually Vespas or Lambrettas. The Mods dress style was often called the City Gent look. Shirts were slim, with a necessary button down collar accompanied by slim fitted pants. Levi's were the only type of jeans worn by Modernists. Flared trousers and bellbottoms led the way to the hippie stage introduced in the 1960s. Variations of polyester were worn along with acrylics.

Carnaby Street and Chelsea's Kings Road were virtual fashion parades. In 1966, the space age was gradually replaced by the Edwardian, with the men wearing double-breasted suits of crushed velvet or striped patterns, brocade waistcoats, shirts with frilled collars, and their hair worn below the collar bone.

Rolling Stones guitarist Brian Jones epitomised this "dandified" look. Women were inspired by the top models of the day which included Twiggy, Jean Shrimpton, Colleen Corby, Penelope Tree and Veruschka. Velvet mini dresses with lace-collars and matching cuffs, wide tent dresses and culottes had pushed aside the geometric shift.

False eyelashes were in vogue, as was pale lipstick. Hemlines kept rising, and by 1968 they had reached well above mid-thigh. These were known as "micro-minis". This was when the "angel dress" made its appearance on the fashion scene. A micro-mini dress with a flared skirt and long, wide trumpet sleeves, it was usually worn with patterned tights, and was often made of crocheted lace, velvet, chiffon or sometimes cotton with a psychedelic print.

The cowled-neck "monk dress" was another religion-inspired alternative; the cowl could be pulled up to be worn over the head. For evening wear, skimpy chiffon baby-doll dresses with spaghetti-straps were the mode as well as the "cocktail dress", which was a close-fitting sheath, usually covered in lace with matching long sleeves. Feather boas were occasionally worn.

By 1968, the androgynous hippie look was in style. Both men and women wore frayed bell-bottomed jeans, tie-dyed shirts, workshirts, and headbands. Wearing sandals was also part of the hippie look for both men and women. Women would often go barefoot, and some even went braless.

Fringed buck-skin vests, flowing caftans, Mexican peasant blouses, gypsy-style skirts, scarves, and bangles were also worn by teenage girls and young women. Indian prints, batik and paisley were the fabrics preferred. For more conservative women, there were the "lounging" or "hostess" pyjamas. These consisted of a tunic top over floor-length culottes, and were usually made of polyester or chiffon.

Another popular look for women and girls which lasted well into the early 1970s was the suede mini-skirt worn with a French polo-neck top, square-toed boots and Newsboy Cap or beret. Long maxi coats, often belted and lined in sheepskin, appeared at the close of the decade. Animal Prints were also popular for women in the autumn and winter of 1969. Women's shirts often had transparent sleeves. Psychedelic prints, hemp and the look of "Woodstock" came about in this generation.

The late 1960 produced a style categorized of people whom promoted sexual liberation and favored a type of politics reflecting "peace, love and freedom". Ponchos, mocassins, love beads, peace signs, medallion necklaces, chain belts, polka dot-printed fabrics, and long, puffed "bubble" sleeves were additional trends in the late 1960s.

New materials other than cloth (such as polyester and PVC) started to become more popular as well.

Starting in 1967, the Mod culture began to embrace reggae music and its working class roots. The new urban fashion known as Skinhead was born.

Please visit my Funny Animal Art Prints Collection @ http://www.fabprints.com

My other website is called Directory of British Icons: http://fabprints.webs.com

The Chinese call Britain 'The Island of Hero's' which I think sums up what we British are all about. We British are inquisitive and competitive and are always looking over the horizon to the next adventure and discovery.

Copyright © 2010 Paul Hussey. All Rights Reserved.

About the Author

My family tree has been traced back to the early Kings of England from the 7th Century AD. I am also a direct descendent of Sir Christopher Wren which has given me an interest in English History and Icons which is great fun to research.

I have recently decided to write articles on my favourite subjects: English Sports, English History, English Icons, English Discoveries and English Inventions.

At present I have written over 100 articles which I call "An Englishman's Favourite Bits Of England" in various Volumes.

Please visit my Blogs page http://Bloggs.Resourcez.Com where I have listed all my articles to date.

Copyright © 2010 Paul Hussey. All Rights Reserved.

Rock & Republic Men's Gaetan Double Monk Strap $162.5 Get harness boot styling in a dress shoe with this Gaetan monk strap from Rock & Republic. The supple calfskin upper is smooth, with traditional slim laces and a padded collar for ease and comfort.

Monk $10 Monk

Antonio Maurizi Men's Ferrara Monk Strap Slip-On $535 Handcrafted in Northern Italy in limited quantities, the Ferrara from Antonio Maurizi is no ordinary monkstrap slip on. The craftsmanship is apparent to the naked eye: rich, double-stitched leather upper, thick, flat-buckled monkstrap across the vamp, thick leather soles hand-cobbled to perfection. This is no ordinary shoe; this is a work of wearable art. The trained eye will notice your impeccable taste, while everyone else will see them as well-crafted, amazing shoes Win-win in any playbook.

Black Leather Monk Strap Shoe $595 A smooth leather vamp that comes to a rounded point with monk strap detail and a silvertone buckle creates a sharp, clean-cut shoe for professional or formal occasions. Made in Italy.

Bruno Magli Men's Mydrone Monk Strap Dress Shoe $550 Bruno Magli Men's Mydrone Monk Strap Dress Shoe

ECCO Women's Sky Monk Strap $104.45 ECCO gives your casual comfort look a breath of fresh air thanks to the Sky monk strap. The soft leather upper features stylish overlays and accent stitching for a dash of spice while the zig-zag strap offers a conveniently customizable fit and an extra layer of texture. The contoured outsole finishes the design with walkable comfort and turns an on the go day into a light on your feet adventure.

The Monk $10 The Monk - Camille

Black Calf Leather Monk Strap Shoes $398 Enter the world of Fratelli Rossetti, one of the major "Made in Italy" shoe producers since 1953. In a perfect mix between style and tradition, this model in black calfskin features a smooth leather upper and monk strap. Made in Italy

Florsheim Men's Elwood Monk Strap Loafer $159.95 Exude confident, GQ style by pairing the Florsheim Elwood loafer with tailored business ensembles. A smooth leather or suede upper creates a sophisticated and polished silhouette. A monk strap adorns the vamp.

Rasputin: The Mad Monk - Double Play (Blu-Ray and DVD) $17.99 Rasputin: The Mad Monk - Double Play (Blu-Ray and DVD)

Allen Edmonds Men's Lubbock Monk Strap $294.95 Add easy and classic style to your look with the Allen Admonds Lubbock Monk Strap shoe. The rugged leather upper is sleek with a buckled strap over the foot adding handsome detail. The thick leather sole and leather lining will be perfectly comfortable and wear beautifully for years to come, making this a smart, as well as stylish investment.

Dark Brown Calf Leather Monk Strap Shoes $398 Enter the world of Fratelli Rossetti, one of the major "Made in Italy" shoe producers since 1953. In a perfect mix between style and tradition, this model in dark brown calfskin features a smooth leather upper and monk strap. Made in Italy

Antonio Maurizi Men's Montorio Monk Strap $247.5 Classic styling and contemporary construction make the Antonio Mauizi Men's Montorio Monk Strap a shoe you won't soon forget. A pointed toe cap presents a powerful first impression, but soon makes way for innovative design at the throat line. An overlapping panel buckles for a secure enclosure that's sure to turn heads.

Bruno Magli Men's Remmos Monk Strap $424.95 Try a monk strap style for a change. The Remmos design from Bruno Magli is crafted from subtly shiny leather and features an adjustable buckle at the vamp. Its rubber outsole is flexible, durable, and sure to keep you steady footed.

Wanted Shoes Women's Nevele Monk-Strap Loafer $49.99 Experience modern style with this Nevele loafer from Wanted. The sleek silhouette lends a sweetly streamlined look to your favorite cropped skinny jeans, while the buckled monk strap adds function and even more fashion to an already next-to-perfect shoe.

Kobe Dark Brown Suede Monk Strap Shoes $498 Rich brown suede has a casual elegance that enhances the Kobe monk shoe with a smooth toe and wide straps. Realized in suede cow leather with genuine leather insoles and lining. Signature box included. Made in Italy.

Nine West Women's Bevel Monk Strap $49.99 Nine West turns a classic loafer on its head - literally - with sassy vintage results in the Bevel monk strap. This charming bootie features smooth leather with just a hint of polish at the strap. A thick heel and a hint of a platform update this timeless shoe with a fresh, curvaceous profile and dynamic lift. Perfect for casual wear with the refinement to add a breath of fresh air to certain office attire, this is a fun find.

Bruno Magli Men's Rosetto Monk Strap $495 It doesn't get much more stylish or luxe than the Bruno Magli Men's Rosetto Monk Strap shoe. With a nod to mod, the rich leather upper is perfectly set off by a handsome buckled strap over the foot. Meanwhile, an easy leather heel and sole will wear for years, making this timeless style a smart addition to your wardrobe.

Spring Step Women's Crestor Monk Strap Shoe $83.99 Whether you stand for hours on the job, or just want a comfortable walking shoe, Spring Step offers the ultimate in wearability with the Crestor Monk Strap Shoe. Constructed with a durable leather upper, the shoe features a perforated upper that works as an air-cooling system to keep your feet feeling dry and fresh. Other features include an extra thick-cushioned inner sole, wide hook-and-loop closure, and shock-absorbing rubber bottom.

Donald J Pliner Men's Chris Monk-Strap $394.95 Give those oxfords a rest and go for this monk-strap shoe from Donald J. Pliner. Crafted in Italy of ultra-smooth calfskin, this shoe features a tapered apron toe for a contemporary silhouette, while dual goring allows for a slip-on fit. Branded hardware brings a sense of refinement, and the leather outsole is overlaid with rubber for increased durability and traction.

Amalfi by Rangoni Women's Egadi Monk-Strap Moccasin $108.9 Bring out your fashion-forward sensibility with the European look of the Egadi monk-strap from Amalfi by Rangoni. Feisty scaled leather interplays with softer textures for a vibrant look brimming with interest and a contrast pattern that hints at a classic mary-jane. A sure-footed outsole is the perfect finish to this shoe that you simply must wear out on the town for shopping, lunch dates, and so much in between.

ECCO Women's Sence Monk Strap $58.55 This easy-going shoe from ECCO is just as practical as it is stylish. The weathered leather shoe has a sporty look with intricate stitching overlays, and you'll appreciate its thick hook-and-loop strap that'll have you ready in a flash.

Handcrafted Brown Wingtip Monk Strap Shoes $548 Secret 50% OFF Special, not accessible from our public site. Use code: PLATINUMCODE. Limited time only. The new men's shoe collection by Forzieri is exclusively hand-made by the most expert Italian artisans that combine traditional excellent craftsmanship with original new designs. These brown monk straps are embellished by detailed cut-outs and a wing-tip finish, perfect for an important business meeting or for a dressy occasion. Hand-made in Italy.

Italian Handcrafted Black Leather Monk Strap Shoes $630 Secret 50% OFF Special, not accessible from our public site. Use code: PLATINUMCODE. Limited time only. The new men's shoe collection by Forzieri is exclusively hand-made by the most expert Italian artisans that combine traditional excellent craftsmanship with original new designs. These black monk straps are embellished by two silver metal buckles and a cap-toe, perfect for an important business meeting or for a dressy occasion. Hand-made in Italy.

Aetrex Women's Emma - Monk Strap $90.49 The word Aetrex is a derivation of Ae-Treks, meaning One Journey.  Your own journey is unique, filled with activities and challenges that ultimately determine how you live your life.  The Aetrex mission is to bring to market footwear and footcare products that enable you to live life your way pursuing your favorite activities, avoiding unnecessary setbacks and overcoming challenges whenever possible.

Monk - Monk Logo $21.99 Monk - Monk Logo - T-Shirt

Kobe Black Leather Monk Strap Shoes $420 A smooth upper and a thick triangular strap give the Kobe shoe business savvy undertones with uptown sophistication. Realized in genuine leather with leather insoles and rubber inserts in the soles for better traction. Signature box included. Made in Italy.

Payless Smartfit Boys' Leather Monk Strap Casual $19.99 "This handsome Smartfit casual features a rich tumbled leather upper with an adjustable strap, soft fabric lining, a padded collar and insole for comfort and a rugged, skid resistant outsole. Leather and manmade materials. All Smartfit shoes are built with"

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