The Power of One

LEATHER pants (similar here)

KIMONO cardigan (similar here)

VINTAGE chiffon shirt

TOPSHOP suede messenger bag

FELT hat 

The 1960s saw a revolution in fashion that was born out of the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s. This movement gave credence to those, generally youth, who resisted the socially accepted norms of the time due to their dissatisfaction with the dominant culture.  Tensions grew globally regarding the war in Vietnam, race segregation, sexuality, women’s rights, modes of authority, and conflicting interpretations of the “American Dream.” By defying the dominant culture in the 1960s and 70s, the youth of the time spurred the creation of new and more ideal cultural forms.

The revival of hippie fashion in contemporary culture and, more broadly speaking, the growing popularity of what we call ‘hipsterism’ may actually be a sign that we as a society are noticing the discrepancies in dominant culture.  Individuals such as these, although technically conformists within their own subculture, are pioneers and leaders of the latest and most progressive cultural ideals. New cultural forms are emerging, and will only emerge, with the help of individuals like these, who value independent thinking and strive to eradicate the ego, redefine true happiness and establish equality for all. 

I recently watched an amazing documentary called ‘I am’ directed by Tom Shadyac, which has become to my surprise and happiness a widely seen film. “I am” is a non-fiction film “that poses two practical and provocative questions: what’s wrong with our world, and what will initiate change?”  The answer to these questions is “I am” and “I will”.  While we are all part of the problem, we are also part of the solution. We will initiate change by believing in the power of one. 

The hope is that this film along with other inspirational work will encourage others to question the conventions of dominant culture (ex. the way business is done, the way we treat others, and our understanding of true happiness) and see the power in individual actions.

I was given the chance to shoot with this adorable yellow Volkswagen bus, which inspired me to create a look that exhibits hippie fashion’s trippy, crafty and sometimes ethnic essence.  My outfit brings together contemporary fall styles including layering, a darker color palette and chunky wedges (essential for your fall shoes collection) with 60s and 70s style involving ethnic patterns, fringe and natural unkempt hair. The result is a fashion style that is relaxed and flirty, yet edgy. This look is a great way to carry the festival style into the fall fashion season. 

* Information about the counterculture of the 1960s and 70s gained from "The Rise and Fall of an International Counterculture, 1960-1975" by Jeremi Suri