Introducing the mod subculture

The mod subculture began in London in 1958, originally named after the ultra-hip fans of modern jazz, and has continued its popularity to this day. This subculture led to the arrival of iconic mod clothes for men.

Mod culture evolved in the 1960s spreading rapidly across the UK, driven by a new disruptive genre of soul, ska, R&B & rock music, tailored fashion, scooters, and of course all-night clubbing.

The movement successfully subverted the old-fashioned practises of the 1950s, and gave a voice and identity to nonconformist youths looking to rebel against the confines of society and state. Style and appearance were the dominant principles of mod subculture, with checked tailor-made suits, polka dot, paisley & floral button up pointed collar shirts and skinny ties becoming the classic mod clothes for men.

London’s Carnaby Street became the focal point for mod style clothing, with shops such as Lady Jane, Lord John and The Mod Male regularly attracting mod music icons as well as inspiring The Jam’s song “Carnaby Street”. The mod style continued to develop, with the adoption of two tone trousers, paisley and patterned shirts, fishtail parkas and the Harrington Jacket, with London fashion at the heart of the movement.

The mod leisure driven ideals of style, music and pop art were so attractive that not only did they take hold in the U.S., but they also spawned a new subculture known as the skinheads. The 1970s saw a mod revival of retro style clothing led by The Jam, a continuation in the 1980s with The Prisoners, and the evolution of Britpop, with bands such as Blur, Oasis and The Bluetones - all evoking timeless mod clothes for men popularised in the 1960s.

 How to Nail Mod Fashion

We’ve made nailing the mod look easy! Check our guide to mod clothes for men to perfect your 60s look today.