Although fashions varied throughout the 1960s in France, there were a few designers and some particular styles that define the decade through a historical standpoint. The influence of British mod fashion was apparent in this decade, as mod style swept through the mainstream. Some of the other styles include those of the space age and Left Bank styles. Innovation and politics were the major cultural influences during this decade.

Mod Influence.

During the '60s in Britain the mod trend was everywhere. Trousers, flat shoes and miniskirts defined the feminine mod look while the men were often seen in tailored Italian suits and skinny ties. This style quickly spread across Europe and influenced the fashion in countries such as France.

The left bank look.

Influenced by the student political movement in the area during that time, the Left Bank, or beatnik look, was composed of fitted striped tops and berets. Men wore tailored dark pants and women often wore narrow dark skirts that were longer than the popular mini skirt of the time.

Designers.

Designers such as Andre Courreges, Emilio Pucci and Paco Rabanne were highly touted during the 1960s. Andre Courreges was known for his geometric shapes and introducing outer space-inspired fashions during this decade. Using distinct Art Nouveau-inspired geometric and abstract patterns, Emilio Pucci's often psychedelic designs invoked 1960s pop culture. Paco Rabanne was popular for his use of nontraditional materials, such as cardboard and metal. He, famously, designed the costumes for the 1960s film "Barbarella," starring Jane Fonda.

Brigitte Bardot.

Brigitte Bardot, the iconic French actress of the 1960s with an unabashed style and sex-kitten persona, caught the world's attention. From her messy bouffant hairdo and cat-eye makeup to her beatnik fashion sense, Brigitte Bardot represents a decade of sexual freedom and bohemian style.