1960s Mods
The 1960s Mods were a youth subculture whose origins were based and began in London in the late 1950s. These individuals all sharing a common denominator of a passion for Modern Jazz and fashion. The young individuals who adopted this music style, also began adopting a more sophisticated and cultured lifestyle. This included dressing sharply and attending jazz clubs. Thus the term “Mod” is a shortened term of the word “modernist”. Mod referring to focusing on fashion and modern music.
The 1960s Mods and their peers were the first generation of working class youths who were driven to pursue their own distinct and unique identity. Achieving this through fashion, specific musical genres and their lifestyle. They rejected the conventional and conservative norms of their parents’ generation. Thus making the subculture part of a wider trend of 1960s youth rebellion. It was to shape an identity that would set them apart from previous and older generations.
By embracing this new and modern-day life, the 1960s Mods also sought to create their own individual style. by investing in stylish clothing and Italian scooters. Particularly Vespa and Lambretta models.
Music : Music Adopted by 1960s Mods
As well as adopting Modern Jazz, 1960s Mods also favoured the music genres of Soul, American rhythm and blues (R&B), Ska, Bluebeat and Beat. As records were imported and with the the advent of pirate radio, music became very much centric to the “Mod scene”.
Equally with the emerging “underground” club scene, where Mods would socialise. Therefore these genres of music became more accessible to listen to. Often these events would last well into the early hours and all-night, hence why some Mods used amphetamines (speed) to help them stay awake so they could dance throughout the night.
Included is a separate category relating to music genres adopted in Mod subculture. An assortment of articles relating to various genres of music that come under the umbrella term of that overlaps and lends an association with the origins of the music that the 1960s Mods listened to.
Clothing and Fashion : Mod Style Of The 1960s
Mods were identified by their own individuality of style and clothing. Therefore Mod style and clothing is an integral factor that pertains profoundly to Mod subculture.
It is from the very first generation of Mods, that the firm foundations of a sharp Mod style were set in place. This being the original bench mark for such a high standard of clothing.
It is this influential style; one that future generations would go on to adapt and evolve from – with their own personal touches.
Covering the fashion that began with the Mods of the 1960s, through to clothing of the 1980s Mods, this discussion continues forwards.
To conclude, it is without doubt that 1960s Mod subculture left a lasting impression on both fashion and music. From it’s early origins in the late 1950s and continuing forward into it’s peak in the mid 1960s, it went onto influence future youth subcultures. Equally being celebrated and revived in differing forms in the future decades that were to follow.
This specific category concentrating on articles relating to 1960s Mods. These predominately relate to clothing and style of 1960s Mods and lifestyle.
Mods : Shaping A Generation Exhibition, Leicester
Vidal Sassoon – The Movie
1960s Mod Style Further Reading
