Introduction
Living like it's 1967 means immersing yourself in the cultural, social, and technological atmosphere of one of the most vibrant years in the 1960s. This was the era defined by the Summer of Love, psychedelic art, revolutionary music, unique fashion statements, and traditional media consumption. Below is a detailed guide to help you adopt the lifestyle from that era.
Lifestyle of 1967
- Social Climate: 1967 was a year of social change, marked by the counterculture movement, peace activism, and the blossoming of alternative lifestyles. Many young people embraced ideals of love, peace, and free expression.
- Daily Life: People enjoyed spending time outdoors, often gathering in parks or at concerts. The idea of "hippie" communes and shared living spaces became more common.
- Technology: No smartphones or personal computers; communication was by landline phones, letters, or in-person conversations.
Music
Music was at the heart of 1967’s culture, often a form of protest and artistic expression.
- Popular Genres: Psychedelic rock, folk rock, blues, and early hard rock.
- Iconic Artists: The Beatles (especially the album "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band"), Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, The Rolling Stones, Jefferson Airplane, Janis Joplin, and The Grateful Dead.
- Events: The Monterey Pop Festival, which took place in June 1967, was groundbreaking.
Media Consumption Format
- Radio: AM radio was widespread. FM was growing, especially in urban areas, and was used for progressive rock and underground music.
- Records: Vinyl LPs (33 1/3 rpm) and singles (45 rpm) were the primary formats for music consumption.
- Television: Black and white was still common, but color TV sets were becoming more popular. Popular shows included variety shows, westerns, and sitcoms.
- Print Media: Magazines like Rolling Stone (which was just launching) and newspapers were primary sources of news and culture.
Food and Drinks
- Typical Meals: Home-cooked meals were common, often involving meatloaf, casseroles, and traditional American fare.
- Fast Food: Fast food chains like McDonald's and Burger King were expanding rapidly in the U.S.
- Popular Beverages: Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and other sodas were popular. For adults, whiskey, gin, and vodka cocktails (like martinis or gin and tonics) were enjoyed socially.
- Influences: The counterculture movement introduced more vegetarian and natural foods, but these were still niche.
Clothing Choices for Men
- Casual Wear: Bell-bottom jeans and colorful, patterned shirts, often with psychedelic or floral designs. Turtlenecks and t-shirts with bold prints were common.
- Formal Wear: Slim-cut suits with narrow lapels. Neckties were thinner compared to earlier decades.
- Accessories: Round, wireframe glasses made popular by John Lennon, and scarves or bandanas.
- Footwear: Loafers, leather boots (like Chelsea boots), or simple sneakers.
Cigarette Brands Popular in 1967
Smoking was widespread and socially acceptable in many settings.
- Popular Brands: Marlboro, Camel, Lucky Strike, Winston, and Pall Mall were among the leading cigarette brands.
- Advertising: Cigarette advertisements were common on TV and in print, often featuring rugged or glamorous imagery.
Summary
To truly live like it’s 1967, embrace the vibrant social changes and cultural expressions through fashion, music, and lifestyle choices. Use technology authentic to the era, consume media via vinyl and radio, enjoy popular foods and drinks, don traditional clothing styles, and understand the smoking culture that was ubiquitous at the time.
Channel the spirit of the Summer of Love with an open mind and appreciation for the groundbreaking year that shaped much of modern culture.