Hip-huggers first appeared in 1957, when Irene Kasmer designed the first pair from denim fabric. Also known as hipsters, the style had a unique cut for a typical 1950s fashion item.
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Fitting snugly around the hips and thighs, waistlines were placed at the hips, rather than at the waist. They flared out below the thighs into wide bottoms. The legs were quite long, sweeping the floors as you walked. This always resulted in frayed, dirty hemlines.
Quite similar to low-rise bootcut jeans, hip-huggers became very fashionable and became a wardrobe staple in the mid-60s. The style was popularised by the mods and psychedelic groups, mainly in nightclubs. They continued to trend until the 1970s.
Hipsters and the Hippie Lifestyle
Also associated with the hippie lifestyle, the trend was (in some way) inspired by urban living, rock bands, and other music icons. Rock stars like Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Sonny and Cher, and Mick Jagger all wore hip-huggers.
The style soon became the basic wear, not only for the psychedelic group but also for pop musicians and disco fanatics.
From 20th Century Vintage to 21st Century Vintage-Inspired
Today’s version of hipsters and hip-huggers, once staples of beatnik cafés and psychedelic rock scenes of the mid-20th century, has reemerged into the fashion scene as retro-inspired streetwear.
The vintage-inspired look, popularised by the style-conscious Gen Z crowd, fashion influencers, and musicians, stems from a nostalgia for reproducing vintage fashion, but with a more stylish touch using modern textiles.
Brands that carry the design include House of Sunny, Lulu & Sky, and Reformation.
Whether you wear them to music festivals or as an everyday fashion item, the vintage-inspired look is a throwback to styles from an era of youths who dressed with purpose and personality.
How to Rock 60s-Inspired Hip-Huggers Today
To style modern hip-huggers with a vintage twist, pair them with:
- Cropped knit tops
- Psychedelic print shirts
- Fringe vests
- Platform boots
- Big (oversized) tinted sunglasses
- Accessories like wide belts, chunky retro rings, and small neck scarves.
You can also layer the ensemble with crochet cardigans, vintage band tees, or suede jackets to create a more authentic look that echoes the free-spirited fashion of the 1960s.
For a perfect balance, avoid wearing a total vintage look. Rather, aim for a perfect balance of vintage on the bottom and modern on the top, or vice versa.
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