What is a Hippie?

The world has its many “sub-cultures”, and one of the most famous ones of all is the hippie culture of the late 1960’s. Hippies are still around today, but they embody a very different style than the original flower children of the 1960’s. Despite its often negative connotations, the hippie culture has had a lasting impact on modern society, revolutionizing music, fashion, and political protest.

The Hippie Aesthetic

Perhaps the most iconic element of the hippie style is their fashion and lifestyle. Hippie clothing is often characterized by vibrant colors, vintage or handmade items, and wildly patterned or embroidered fabric. Hair is often long and left wild, with minimal styling products used. Some males also sport beards, adding to the overall laid-back vibes of the look. Beyond clothing, hippie homes are often decorated with bright fabrics, plants, and other items that promote a sense of natural beauty. When it comes to music, hippies seek out tunes that are soulful and impactful, with lyrics of peace and love as the main focus.

Anti-Establishment Political Views

The 1960’s hippie culture was born out of deep political unrest and a dissatisfaction with the status quo. Hippies sought to create a world in which the people had control over the laws and the government, rather than the other way around. This idea resulted in the famous slogan “Make love not war”, a call to embrace peace and harmony instead of violence and conflict. To further this message, hippies frequently aligned themselves with civil rights, anti-war and environmentalist movements.

The hippie culture of the 1960’s was a powerful force in American history and it still influences our society today. Despite the drastically different fashion and musical tastes of modern hippies, their strong political views have had a lasting impact on generations to come.