How to Nail Men’s Mod Fashion: The Definitive Guide

We get it. It’s cool. The sleek silhouettes, the rebellious nature, the nostalgia for the 50s and 60s music scene and culture. The allure of all that makes Mod Mod is hidden in every part of the subculture, and it is so powerful that it still resonates today. 

By embracing the style and making it their own, many continue to relate to the values Mod subculture introduced in the 20th century. But what is the secret behind Mod fashion? How did it begin, and how can we embrace the style today without making a mess out of it or looking ridiculous?

Relco is here to help you find your way into the iconic '60s look. Our ultimate Mod style guide will teach you how to dress like a Mod and make it right. 

What Makes the Mod Style… Well, Mod?

Mod culture began with music. 

It all started in 1958 when the Mod subculture was originally named after the ultra-hip dans of modern jazz. The culture evolved in the 1960s and spread rapidly across the UK, driven by even more music genres like soul, ska, R&B and rock music. Tailored fashion, scooters and all-night clubbing also became part of their daily lives. 

Beyond music, the movement gave voice and identity to nonconformist youth looking to rebel against the confines of society and the state.  

These elements of the Mod subculture translated into the fashion choices of those who subscribed to it. Checked tailor-made suits, polka dots, paisley and floral button-up pointer collar shirts and skinny ties quickly took centre stage and became the classic pieces of Mod clothing for men. 

What began in the late ‘50s continued into the ‘70s, when the movement saw a revival of retro-style clothing led by The Jam, and continued further into the ‘80s with The Prisoners and the evolution of Britpop, with bands such as Blur, Oasis and The Bluetones. All evoking the timeless mod style for men popularised in the ‘60s.

Key Elements of Mod Fashion You Need

Nailing men’s mod style is all about choosing the right wardrobe essentials. Here are some of the classic pieces you should be looking for:

Tailored, Slim-Fit Silhouettes

Mods love the sleek, sophisticated and minimalist look of suits and jackets. Over the years, they have become the backbone of Mod Fashion with their sharp, clean cuts. 

Look For: Single-breasted designs with skinny lapels for a streamlined look. 

Additionally, slim trousers and chinos epitomise the sharp,  tailored Mod look. With their slim fit, they create a long, lean silhouette. 

Look For: High-waisted, slightly cropped trousers. 

Polo Shirts & Rollnecks

If you are going to become a true Mod, there’s no escaping the essential tops for layering. The staples of the Mod wardrobe, polo shirts in solid colours and subtle patterns, will pair wonderfully with your new tailored jacket for a casual day out. Rollnecks, on the other hand, are your go-to for a more elevated evening look. 

And for that authentic Mod feel, choose tops in jewel colours, stripes, polka dots, and bold geometric prints. 

Overcoats

Men’s Mod look is known for mixing functionality and style. Therefore, we advise you to arm your winter wardrobe with warm parkas and woollen coats. For spring and autumn, we suggest the classy and chic with trench coats and bomber jackets. 

These pieces offer clean, sharp lines, in tune with the Mod aesthetic. No bulky shapes here! Everything should fit neatly – a minimalist profile is what we are aiming for. 

Once you have several Mod fashion statements, you will discover how easy it is to combine them with elements from other styles and cultural periods to create something uniquely yours. After all, being true to your personality is at the heart of Mod values.

Colours & Patterns: The Fun Part of Men’s Mod Outfits

We talked about Mod style being sleek and sophisticated, but being fun and rebellious also plays a huge part in what it means to be part of the movement. Here are some colour and pattern choices you can make that will really show the world you belong to the subculture: 

Ultimate Monochrome: Black, White & Navy

If you want to keep things truly classic (and slightly edgy), then do not fear embracing the minimalistic colour scheme. Choose black, white and navy as the core of your palette, and you will never seize to exude sophistication. The best part is these shades will go with anything! From tailored suits to casual wear, monochromatic means versatile. 

Bold & Daring: Stripes, Checks, and Mod Florals

If you relate more to the rebellious side of the Mod movement, then you are about to have a lot of fun with all the opportunities at your fingertips. 

• Stripes: Experiment with horizontal and vertical stripes for a touch of drama. Modern and dynamic, you can incorporate these through shirts, suits and accessories. 

• Checks: Plais and gingham checks are simply quintessential for Mod fashion. You can spot them on trousers and jackets, and once you do, you will immediately see how nicely they contrast with the simplicity of the monochrome base. 

• Florals: Mod florals were once the standout pattern in the ‘60s. Vibrant and vivid, they offer an unexpected twist to the otherwise stern look.

The Secret Power of Colour Blocking

There is another last secret to keep in mind when you start wearing the men’s mod look: colour blocking. Simply combine two or more solid colours to create an eye-catching, head-turning modern outfit. Play with this technique on your shirts, jackets and accessories, and before you know it, you will be the talk of the town. 

However, to truly get the most out of it, aim to combine contrasting light and dark tones. For example, wear a simple white shirt with a classic Harrington black jacket and Sta-Prest navy trousers.

The key is balance. While we encourage you to embrace contrast, we also remind you to do it in a controlled way so you never stray away from the iconic Mod style.

Wearing Mod Fashion Today

The reason you love Mod fashion and feel like it is still relevant for self-expression is because it is timeless and suitable for everyone. Refined yet bold, it is vintage but always youthful. This duality of the style will effortlessly change your outfit game with minimal effort, always keeping you proper dapper. 

With the essential Mod pieces neatly placed into your wardrobe, you will sense how the movement seeps beyond the look; it will reflect in your confidence and the way you carry yourself. And soon you will realise: once a Mod, always a Mod.