While the 1930s and 1960s fashion eras each have their own distinct vibe, they share design elements that make them a stylish match for those creating a retro-inspired wardrobe.

Some customers ask us about shoes that pair well with a 1960s look. Although our collection doesn’t specifically feature 1960s-inspired designs (yet!), we find that many of our 1920s and 1930s styles complement a 1960s aesthetic beautifully. Fashion often circles back, and the timeless details of 1930s shoes work effortlessly with 1960s-inspired outfits.

 

The Elegance of Geometric Lines and Sensible Heels

Here’s why 1930s shoes fit so well with a 1960s look: both decades emphasized clean, geometric lines. In the 1930s, tailored dresses and suits captured this aesthetic, while the 1960s embraced A-line dresses, structured suits, and mod patterns. Streamlined shoe shapes from the 1930s blend seamlessly with these silhouettes.

Sensible heel heights are another shared trait. Both decades favored low or mid heels for style and comfort, whether dancing or daily wear. For instance, our 1930s shoes with broad, stable heels fit perfectly with 1960s-inspired outfits that favor lower heel heights.

The Art Deco influence from the 1930s also complements the mod shapes of the 1960s. Our 1930s shoes feature subtle Deco touches—cutouts, metallics, and unique shapes—that harmonize with the geometric designs popular in early 1960s fashion.

Three Vintage Shoe Styles That Blend 1930s Elegance with 1960s Flair

Here are three standout styles from our collection that capture this blend of 1930s craftsmanship with 1960s appeal:

The Marlene Shoe

Originally a 1930s evening sandal, the Marlene shoes' metallic finish, cutouts, and broad low heel work perfectly with a 1960s mod dress and matching accessories.

Here, our Marlene evening sandals in gold are paired with an original, fuchsia colored 1960s dress and original accessories, both from our vintage store, Vintage Divine. 

 

The Helen Shoe

Another 1920s-1930s evening classic, our Helen shoes features metallic colors, cutouts, a T-strap, and a Spanish heel—features seen on icons like Twiggy in the 1960s.

The Helen evening sandals are here shown in silver, with an original 1960s dress in chiffon, with beautiful details, like the chiffon ribbon in the front, tied at the chest and a elegant boat neck. Paired with original vintage silver accessories, matching the shoes. Both dress and accessories are from our vintage shop Vintage Divine. 

 

The Ruby Shoe

For a more everyday option, the Ruby shoe—originally a 1920s Mary Jane—has a flat heel and rounded toe, creating a timeless style that fits seamlessly into a 1960s-inspired wardrobe. Available in various colors, it’s ideal for pairing with the vibrant mod dresses of the 1960s.

 The Ruby shoes are here shown in cream white, and paired with an original 1960s every day dress. The dress has short sleves, a round, simple neckline and a vibrant pattern in red and cream colors. Accessorized with a pair bright red tights, which brings out the 1960s mod vibes and make the shoes really pop. From my fashion show in May. 

Photo: Tami Meijburg

We hope this guide inspires you to explore how our classic shoe styles cross decades and prove that timeless design never goes out of fashion.