Dressed for Success

The fashion of Expo 67.

Written by Mark Collin Reid

Posted June 1, 2017

The late-1960s era was marked by excitement and optimism but also civic turbulence and social unrest. As society was changing, so were social mores and modes of dress.

At Expo 67, younger generations were enjoying increasing freedom of expression and flaunted it through their clothing choices. Colours were vibrant, and miniskirts inched ever upwards.

To mark the 50th anniversary of Expo 67, as well as the 375th anniversary of the founding of Montreal, the McCord Museum launched a new exhibit, titled Fashioning Expo 67, exploring the world’s fair’s influence and legacy through the clothing worn by both employees of Expo 67, as well as visitors to the fair. Also showcased are clothing and accessories designed by leading Quebec designers of the era. The exhibition features more than sixty outfits, from hostess uniforms to hats, gloves, purses and more. The exhibit, launched in March 2017, ran until October 1, 2017.

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To learn more about Expo 67 Mission Impossible, go to Expo-67.ca.

This article originally appeared in the June-July 2017 issue of Canada's History.

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