Versace, via Style.com / Marni, via Style.com / Dsquared², via Style.com
Erin ~ I’ll admit it: I’m mad for mod. It’s such a fun, carefree style, and it’s absolutely impossible to be in a bad mood while wearing gogo boots. Originally “mod” just meant an unconventionally modern style of dress during the 1960s in England. Today, mod style is characterized by graphic patterns, primary colors, and clean streamlined shapes as inspired by Twiggy, Andy Warhol and pop art. If you’re loving ’60s mod, I’ve put together a few looks that will help you bring mod into the modern world.
This first look would be perfect for a night out. A graphic striped tunic paired with bright tights for a pop of color. Heeled Chelsea boots are more flattering (and leg-lengthening) than the flat variety, which are a ‘60s staple. Add a little mod shine with a silver clutch and Twiggy’s favorite accessory: long drop earrings. Pixie cut optional.
Opaque Tights, Express, $15 / Ritz Bootie, Kelly & Katie, $80 / Cassie Striped Dress, Lilly Pulitzer, $98 / Crystal Five Ball Drop Earrings, Adriana Orsini, $125 / Glam Clutch, Urban Expressions, $40
To wear a mod style for an afternoon about town or to a casual office, it’s all about color and print. Plaid pants and a short sleeve turtleneck create clean modern lines. White pumps give the vibe of white go-go boots, but the classic shape keeps it from looking like a costume. A ‘60s-style swing coat in a bright color is a great layering piece, and the circle framed sunglasses are a fun nod to the time period in modern lucite.
Eton Plaid Pant, Juicy Couture, $69 / Ruched Short Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater, Ann Taylor, $58 / Round the Bend Sunglasses, Modcloth, $12 / Ponte Knit Swing Jacket, Tahari, $129 / Fravel, Aldo, $49
The first two outfits are mainly neutrals, since I find it easier to pull off mod-influenced styles in a more subdued color palette. However, color-blocking and loud primary colors are major trends from the ‘60s, so feel free to let loose. A fuchsia mini skirt (which screams ’60s), can be swingin’ with an orange silk blouse. Ground the look with black opaque tights and flat riding boots, and add a newsboy cap in herringbone print and a geometric bracelet for a fun finishing touch.
Classic Mini in Felted Wool, J. Crew, $98 / Elsa Top, Lilly Pulitzer, $97 / Arturo Chiang Shadow Riding Boot, DSW, $110 / Helimo Herringbone Newsboy, Rugby, $60 / Jersey Opaque Tights , Calvin Klein, $24 for 2 / On the Dot Scatter Bracelet , Kate Spade, $98
Mod fashion is an easy trend to incorporate into most styles since the pieces are so simple and have clean lines. Also, many pieces that originated during the 1960s are still staples today, such as the Chelsea boot, swing jackets, flat knee-high boots, mini-skirts, peter pan collars, geometric accessories and opaque tights. Even if you aren’t a fan of the bolder looks from the ‘60s, these classics are a great addition to any wardrobe.
