Shopping for vintage 60s Prom Dresses

The prom dresses worn during the 1960s were influenced by Hollywood movies, politics, and even the Space Age. From funky to glamorous, there was a look for everyone. If you’re looking for one of these beautiful styles, you can find both authentic vintage gowns and 60s-inspired new styles from a variety of stores and boutiques.

Where to buy vintage 60s Prom Dresses

There are several places you can shop online to find beautiful and authentic vintage dress fashions from the 1960s that could work for prom.

Retro Stage

The Retro Stage online shop offers a variety of vintage 60s prom dresses inspired by the iconic styles of Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, and Jackie Kennedy. The company is based in China and has been in operation for 5 years with a large team of designers and tailors who create and customize each dress. While styles are diverse, they are all made of high-quality fabrics and materials and feature exquisite details and embellishments.

Sizes are given in US, UK, and EU measurements, and a size chart is provided for each dress. Prices range from about $30 to $150. Orders are shipped out within 3-5 business days; costs depend on the shipping method and destination. You can return items within 15 days with your receipt.

Rusty Zipper

The Rusty Zipper online shop has a host of unique 1960s prom dresses, ranging from sleek long-sleeved styles with short hems to longer length dresses with beautiful layers. The company is based in Oregon and has been in business for 23 years with a small team dedicated to finding and offering authentic vintage clothing items. While styles are quite numerous, since they are authentic dresses, sizes and specific styles vary widely.

Sizes are given in bust, waist, and hip measurements, and a description of each dress’s condition is included. Prices range from about $40 to $200. Orders are shipped out within one business day; costs vary depending on the weight and shipping location. You can return items within 15 days with your receipt.

Dorothea’s Closet Vintage

Dorthea’s Closet Vintage offers a good selection of authentic vintage 60s prom dresses in various styles, including sleeveless and sleeved cocktail dresses, full-skirted party dresses, evening gowns, and elegant sheath and mini dresses. Some standard sizes are given (S, M, or L), and others are given in bust, waist, and hip measurements; length is also included. Prices range from approximately $30 to $450, with many dresses available for under $100.

Items are curated by the owner and the boutique operates only online. Shipping costs are calculated based on location, and orders are typically shipped out within 3 business days. Returns are done on a case-by-case basis and may include a restocking fee.

MODIG (Dressing Vintage)

MODIG is another vintage store that has a good choice of 1960s dresses, including some full length evening gowns, as well as various cocktail dresses in satin, velvet, or lace. Most vintage 60s prom dresses range from about $75 to $600, though there are a few collectible designs that sell for over $1000. Dresses are marked with sizes S-L as well as with bust, waist, and hip measurements in inches.

In addition to their online store, the mother-daughter team behind the company operates a Portland-based boutique (by appointment only). Domestic shipping in the U.S. is free. Returns are only accepted if there is a flaw in the item and you contact the company within 24 hours of receipt to report it.

60s-Inspired Dresses

You can also find a few places to shop for prom dresses that are new but inspired by the designs of the 60s.

Unique Vintage

Unique Vintage originally began as an online boutique offering vintage 60s prom dresses, but when the owner introduced inspired-by vintage dresses, the overwhelming positive response led her to offer private-label clothing inspired by the past. You’ll find options like full-length velvet evening dresses, short flared dresses, elegant wiggle dresses, and more.

Prices range from about $50 to $230, with a full range of size options from XS through XL as well as plus sizes. Shipping is a flat rate of $7, or enjoy free shipping with orders over $150. You can return unwanted items within 30 days with tags attached; exchanges can be made for different sizes only.

TopVintage

TopVintage is another online store that specializes in inspired-by vintage clothing. They have a nice selection of pencil dresses, cross dresses, and swing styles in floral prints, lace, velvet, and more. Many of these vintage 60s prom dresses are more simple in style than some of the more elaborate evening dresses, so they’re a good option for those who want a more subtle style.

Popular 1960s Prom Dress Styles

Young women today can take their pick from any vintage 60s prom dresses or inspired-by styles for prom that meet personal preferences, but there were some specific styles that were popular during the 1960s for this special night. Consider the following options when shopping for the perfect vintage prom dress:.

Pastel Colors

In the early 1960s, pastel shades were popular. Prom dresses in pretty pastel shades could be seen in young ladies during this time. Pastel shades can be worn on most skin tones, but they aren’t as slimming as darker colors.

Feminine Details

Many vintage 60s prom dresses from this period had feminine details, such as lace, bow details or accents, satin waist bands, brocade, beads or sequins, and even ruffles. These details can work on most body types, but bows and other more voluminous accents are ideal for thin or athletic builds as they create the illusion of more curves.

Empire Waists

The waists of dresses gradually rose through this decade, so by the late 60s, dresses with empire waists became popular. Empire-waist dresses work well for pear-shaped body types, as they don’t hug the hips or draw attention to them. They can also work well for those with an apple shape because they don’t constrict or draw attention to the waist.

Elegant Silhouettes

Elegant dress silhouettes were popular, such as bell-shaped skirts on dresses, gently flared styles, and sheath looks. These styles work well on most body types, but are especially suited to those with hour-glass figures because they accentuate the figure, as well as rectangular body types because they give the appearance if a slim waist and curves in the right places.

Short Cocktail Dress Styles

Shorter cocktail dresses, with various sleeve styles, became popular party dresses during the 1960s. These are great for ladies whose legs are one of their best features, and they can work well on many body types depending on the specific style. A loose-fitting mini dress skims the body and works well for those wanting to conceal problem areas like the hips or waist, while a fitted waist and flared skirt work well for pear, hourglass, and rectangular figures.

Bright Colors

As the 60s progressed, not only did hemlines tend to become shorter, but bolder colors became more prevalent. Later in the decade, dresses in brighter or more earthy colors became popular, such as reds and oranges. If you find pastel colors make you look washed out, a brighter or richer hue may work for you.

Geometric Shapes or Patterns

Geometric patterns also began appearing in dress styles. These offer a unique and eye catching option that makes a bold statement when worn for prom. They are also great for ladies who want to camouflage extra curves.

Swing Dresses

Swing style dresses that were less form fitting and restrictive were also popular, and these are excellent for those who want to conceal the hips or give the appearance of a smaller waist.

Get Your Perfect 60s Prom Dress

There are plenty of options that work for all body types for those looking for prom dresses or vintage 60s Prom Dresses. The unique styles of this decade promise something for everyone, so just consider the look you want to go for on this special night. To complete the look, consider going all out with 60s hair and makeup!