Cilla in the 60's

 I have always been fascinated by Priscilla Presley's 60's style.  For me, I think she encapsulates the mood at the time.

Throughout the 1950's. women had been constrained both physically and aesthetically by fashion.  Dior's cinched waist, large skirt silhouette was the standard of the time and did not leave much room for function or personal expression.  The way the underpinnings and clothing literally controlled a woman's physical movement reflected women's place in society - you were meant to play your role, remain weak, and take orders.

The social and political changes in the 60's, and the rise of youth culture, opened the door to creative thinking when it came to appearance.  The removal of the corset and crinoline allowed physical liberation of women's bodies which coordinated with their potential to become more active in society and the social movements of the time.  A true time of liberation.  We see wild prints, crazy hair and makeup, and an overall visual explosion in fashion.

Priscilla and Elvis met in 1959 when she was 14.  They dated for 7 years and wed in '66.  She transformed from a girl to a woman in the spotlight of the media and found her way through many looks.  Beyond her journey into womanhood, the context of the liberation of the 60's played a big role in her overall style - take a look.

1959

Early 60's

Elvis makeover

1966

Early 60s

Mid 60s

Late 60s

Late 60s