Underwear from the early 60’s almost resemble corsets. They were stiff and contoured and usually lifted body parts where nature had not intended. This ensured that everything was 'tucked in' the right places creating a 'perfect' figure. The slip was always worn under the couture of the early 60's.

Advice given to the pre-teenage daughter was that she should start wearing a bra as soon as her figure begins to form. Her first ‘foundation garment’ was very important. A special range from Berlei was developed for young figures called the Teenform, which could be bought at all ‘good’ stores. Berlei brought out two booklets ‘Understanding Mother’ and ‘Very Special Secrets’ to help confused teens.

Because of rising skirt lengths pantyhose replaced stockings and suspenders. Pantyhose were manufactured in a range of colours and textures such as black, white, lace, lurex and fishnet. Lurex pantyhose were popular with go-go dancers.

During the woman's lib movement, bras were viewed as symbols of harness. So the no-bra look came into fashion.

Last updated: June 01, 2003

Sixties Central, Copyright 1998-2003 by Mandy Hoeymakers.
Information may be reproduced for non-commercial purposes if attribution is given.