I’ve always believed the best vintage pieces don’t scream first. They whisper. And few things whisper quite like a well-chosen pair of 1960s shoes. Whether it’s the delicate arc of a kitten heel or the playful swing of a go-go boot, the footwear of this decade has a way of anchoring an outfit with quiet confidence. Over years of thrifting, I’ve learned that 1960s shoes are some of the most versatile and flattering shapes you can add to a modern wardrobe—if you know what to look for. Let me walk you through the styles that still feel fresh, where to find them, and how to wear them without looking like you’re headed to a costume party.
Why 1960s Shoes Still Feel Right Today
There’s a reason certain silhouettes never truly go out of style—they just get rediscovered. The pointed toe, the modest heel, the clean line of a slingback—these are details that flatter almost any foot and complement a surprising range of modern outfits. I often think about a scene in an old film where a woman walks into a café and the camera catches the back of her heel. That’s the kind of moment 1960s shoes were made for. They bring an inherent elegance without being fussy. Pair them with high-waisted jeans and a tucked-in sweater, or a midi skirt and a blazer, and you’ve got an outfit that feels considered but not contrived. The shapes are strong enough to stand alone, so you don’t need to build an entire period look around them.
The Silhouettes That Define the Decade
If you’re new to 1960s shoes, start with these five silhouettes—they’re the ones I see most often in thrift stores and the ones that translate best to modern life.
- Kitten heels – The ultimate refined walkable heel. A slim, curved heel usually under two inches. Perfect for days when you want lift without sacrifice.
- Go-go boots – White or black, mid-calf, with a low block heel. They scream 1960s but in the best way when paired with a mini skirt or A-line dress.
- Mary Janes – The classic strap across the instep. Flat or low heel. These feel both girlish and grown-up—ideal with cigarette pants or a knee-length skirt.
- Flat ballet styles – Think of the rounded toe and simple leather upper. The 1960s ballet flat is softer and more structured than modern versions, often with a tiny bow.
- Slingbacks – Open back, closed toe, with a strap. Often in black patent. These are my go-to for transitional weather.
Each of these 1960s shoes can be found in versatile neutral colors or playful metallics—both work beautifully with today’s wardrobe.
Where to Find Authentic 1960s Shoes
Patience is the real secret to finding great vintage shoes. Start with local thrift stores and estate sales—I’ve pulled some of my best pairs from dusty shelves in Brooklyn and upstate New York. Look for leather soles, metal shanks (a thin metal strip inside the sole for support), and well-preserved stitching. Online, Etsy and eBay are treasure troves, but you have to be careful about condition. When I find a pair of 1960s shoes in good condition—meaning the sole is intact, the heel caps are still on, and the leather hasn’t cracked—I almost always bring them home. One tip: always check the size stamp. Vintage sizing can run small or narrow, so try shoes on with the socks you’d actually wear.
How to Style 1960s Shoes for Modern City Life
The magic is in the mix. Let the shoes lead, but keep the rest of your outfit current. Take a pair of black go-go boots: I wear them with a chunky knit sweater dress and opaque tights, and it feels entirely of the moment. Kitten heels work beautifully with straight-leg jeans and a cashmere cardigan—just enough shape to lift the look. Mary Janes can be surprisingly edgy with a leather skirt and a thin turtleneck. The key is balance—let the 1960s shoes be the focal point without turning the rest of the outfit into a period piece. A few modern accessories—a minimalist bag, a simple belt—keep the ensemble grounded in today.
Caring for Vintage Shoes
1960s shoes have already lasted sixty years—with a little care, they can last sixty more. Begin by taking them to a good cobbler for new heel tips and a resoling if needed. Condition the leather every few months with a neutral cream. And always store them with shoe trees to hold the shape. I keep mine in breathable fabric bags, away from direct sunlight. If the inside lining is worn, a cobbler can often replace it. Treat them with the respect they deserve, and they’ll reward you with decades of wear.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few pitfalls I’ve learned the hard way: don’t assume all vintage shoes are comfortable right out of the gate—break them in gradually with thick socks and a hairdryer on low heat. Avoid styles with plastic or synthetic uppers; they don’t breathe and won’t last. And don’t buy 1960s shoes that are too tight hoping they’ll stretch—leather gives a little, but not half a size. Finally, resist the urge to wear them in heavy rain or snow unless they’ve been properly waterproofed.
Style should feel collected, not crowded, and a well-chosen pair of vintage shoes is one of the most satisfying ways to build a wardrobe that feels truly your own.
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