17 Must-Have Accessories Every Teen Girl Owned in the ’60s

1960s
By Jasmine Hughes

The 1960s was a transformative decade, marked by a vibrant explosion of style and culture. Teen girls of the era were no strangers to fashion, embracing bold accessories that defined their identity and echoed the spirit of the times.

From colorful scarves to mod sunglasses, each accessory tells a unique story of individuality and youthful rebellion. Let’s explore these iconic items that were not only fashionable but also a testament to the creativity and exuberance of the ’60s teen girl.

1. Cat-Eye Sunglasses

© Mvd Sport

Cat-eye sunglasses were the epitome of chic for ’60s teen girls. These trendy shades, with their upswept outer edges, added a touch of glamour to any outfit. Whether lounging by the pool or strolling through town, girls wore them to make a stylish statement.

Known for frames in bold colors and patterns, they allowed self-expression and a playful nod to celebrity fashion icons.

The sunglasses not only shielded eyes from the sun but also were an essential part of a girl’s wardrobe. Their distinctive design remains a symbol of creative flair and youthful elegance.

2. Charm Bracelets

© Reddit

Charm bracelets jingled their way into the hearts of many teenage girls during the ’60s. Each bracelet was a canvas, showcasing a unique collection of charms that symbolized personal milestones, interests, or beloved hobbies.

They were a conversation starter, filled with tiny keepsakes that carried sentimental value. Whether it was a charm from a memorable vacation or a tiny locket, each piece held a special story.

Wearing these bracelets was a way to express individuality, with each charm reflecting the wearer’s unique personality and vibrant life.

3. Headscarves

© The Looking Glass – Montrose School

Headscarves became a staple for fashionable ’60s teens, adding a pop of color and flair. These versatile accessories were worn in various ways, from tying them under the chin to wrapping them around the head.

The vibrant patterns and bold colors complemented the decade’s expressive style, often paired with sunglasses for an iconic look.

Headscarves were perfect for casual outings or a day at the beach, offering a practical yet stylish solution to keeping hair in place. They represented freedom and creativity, making every outfit stand out with elegance.

4. Go-Go Boots

© eBay

Go-go boots were more than just footwear; they were a fashion revolution in the ’60s. With their knee-high design and glossy finish, these boots became a symbol of youthful rebellion and modern style.

Typically worn with mini skirts and bold prints, they added a striking contrast and flair, making them a must-have for teen girls eager to make a statement.

The boots were comfortable for dancing the night away, embodying the energetic spirit of the era. Their bold design and adventurous appeal made them an unforgettable part of 1960s fashion.

5. Mood Rings

© People | HowStuffWorks

Mood rings, though emerging towards the later part of the ’60s, captured the hearts of many with their color-changing magic. These rings were not just accessories; they were believed to reveal one’s emotional state through vibrant hues.

As the wearer’s mood shifted, the ring’s color would transform, making it a whimsical and intriguing piece of jewelry.

Teen girls adored mood rings for their mystique and the personal touch they added to their attire. This accessory was a delightful blend of fashion and fun, encapsulating the playful spirit of the decade.

6. Mini Skirts

© BBC

Mini skirts, introduced in the ’60s, became an iconic symbol of youthful defiance and fashion-forward thinking. These skirts were daringly short, reflecting the liberation and confidence of the era.

Paired with knee-high boots or colorful tights, they created a bold silhouette that resonated with the decade’s cultural revolutions.

Teen girls embraced them for their trendy appeal and the freedom they symbolized. The mini skirt was more than just clothing; it was a cultural statement that challenged norms and celebrated individuality.

7. Hippie Beaded Necklaces

© Etsy

Hippie beaded necklaces were a vibrant expression of the ’60s counterculture movement. Adorned with colorful beads and often handmade, these necklaces symbolized peace, love, and freedom.

Teen girls wore them as a sign of solidarity with the hippie movement, embracing a lifestyle that valued creativity and nonconformity.

The intricate designs and bright colors added a whimsical touch to any outfit, making each necklace a personal work of art. These accessories were a bold statement, reflecting the vibrant and carefree spirit of the decade.

8. Peasant Blouses

© Blossom Vintage

Peasant blouses, with their loose fit and delicate embroidery, offered a relaxed yet stylish look for teen girls in the ’60s. These blouses were inspired by traditional folk wear and became popular for their comfort and bohemian vibe.

Often paired with jeans or skirts, they were perfect for casual outings or music festivals. The light, airy fabric made them ideal for warmer days, while the detailed embroidery added a touch of elegance.

Peasant blouses were a nod to the growing interest in cultural diversity and individuality.

9. Pillbox Hats

© Etsy

Pillbox hats were a fashionable headwear choice for teenage girls in the ’60s. With their sleek, round shape, these hats added a touch of sophistication to any ensemble.

Often adorned with bows or veils, pillbox hats were a nod to the glamorous fashion of the time, popularized by style icons like Jacqueline Kennedy.

They were often worn to formal events or church, offering a polished and refined appearance. These hats became a symbol of elegance and class, making them a cherished accessory in every teen girl’s collection.

10. Tie-Dye T-Shirts

© Lynda Heines Fabric Design –

Tie-dye t-shirts burst onto the scene as a symbol of the ’60s counterculture, embodying the era’s love for color and creativity. These shirts were often handmade, with vibrant patterns that captured the eye and sparked conversation.

Each shirt was a unique piece of art, reflecting the wearer’s personality and artistic flair. Teen girls embraced tie-dye for its casual, carefree vibe, often pairing it with jeans or skirts for a laid-back look.

The tie-dye trend celebrated individuality and became synonymous with the decade’s peaceful and free-spirited ethos.

11. Vinyl Record Bags

© Etsy

Vinyl record bags were a quirky and practical accessory for music-loving teens in the ’60s. These bags, often designed to look like actual records, were used to carry LPs to friends’ houses or parties.

With fun designs and vibrant colors, they reflected the importance of music in teen culture during that era.

Girls loved them for their unique look and the way they showcased their passion for the latest hits. Vinyl record bags were not just for carrying music; they were a stylish statement of a music-driven lifestyle.

12. Wide Belts

© jenniefields1

Wide belts were a fashion staple in the ’60s, often used to cinch dresses or tunics for a defined silhouette. These belts came in various colors and materials, from sleek leather to bold patterns, adding a touch of drama to any outfit.

They were not just practical but also a way to express personal style and flair. Teen girls loved using wide belts to accentuate their waistlines, creating a fashionable figure. This accessory was an essential piece for those looking to make a bold and stylish statement in the world of ’60s fashion.

13. Fishnet Stockings

© circussoul

Fishnet stockings became synonymous with the daring style of the ’60s, offering a provocative twist to traditional hosiery. These stockings were often paired with mini skirts and go-go boots, adding a rebellious edge to teen fashion.

Their open-weave design provided a unique texture and a touch of intrigue, making them a favorite among girls looking to push fashion boundaries.

Fishnets were not just about making a statement; they were a symbol of the decade’s bold and adventurous spirit. They remain a classic example of the era’s daring style choices.

14. Polka Dot Dresses

© Fine Art America

Polka dot dresses were a delightful addition to the ’60s teen wardrobe, offering a playful pattern that felt both vintage and fresh. With their bubbly dots and often bright colors, these dresses exuded a sense of fun and youthfulness.

They were perfect for picnics, dances, or casual outings, embodying the carefree spirit of the era.

Teen girls loved how polka dots added a touch of whimsy to their look, making each day feel a little more vibrant. This pattern continues to evoke nostalgia for the charming and lively style of the ’60s.

15. Bakelite Jewelry

© Michelle’s Vintage Jewelry

Bakelite jewelry added a pop of color and personality to the fashionable ’60s wardrobe. These pieces, ranging from bangles to earrings, were made from the early plastic Bakelite, known for its durability and vibrant hues.

Teen girls adored these accessories for their affordability and ability to stand out, allowing them to mix and match different pieces for a unique look.

Bakelite’s versatility meant it was worn with everything from casual outfits to more formal attire. This jewelry brought a playful and artistic touch to any ensemble, making it a beloved choice of the era.

16. Patent Leather Handbags

© Raleigh Vintage

Patent leather handbags were an essential accessory for teen girls in the ’60s, offering both style and practicality. These bags, with their glossy finish, added a sleek and polished look to any outfit.

Available in a variety of bright colors, they were often used to complement a girl’s wardrobe, ensuring her look was always on point.

The handbags were not just for carrying essentials; they were a statement piece that reflected the era’s love for bold fashion choices. Their shiny surface and structured design made them a timeless accessory.

17. Bell Bottom Pants

© monacoplace

Bell bottom pants swept through the ’60s as a fashion trend that couldn’t be ignored. With their flared bottoms, these pants offered a dramatic departure from traditional straight-leg styles.

Teen girls loved them for their flair and the way they moved with each step, creating a sense of freedom and individuality.

Often paired with tie-dye shirts or peasant blouses, bell bottoms were a staple for those embracing the counterculture movement. This trend was more than just a fashion statement; it was an emblem of the era’s boldness and desire for change.