Bruno Pugh
The ’60s were a time of rapid change, with everyday life looking strikingly different from today. A simpler world, yet many practices and trends from that era would be unimaginable now. Curious about what couldn’t fly in modern times? Here’s a look back at 20 things that just don’t work anymore.
Manual Typewriters
There was a time when manual typewriters were a staple in every office. Typing required significant effort, and correcting errors meant using tape. Computers now dominate, making instant digital corrections the norm and leaving typewriters a distant memory.
No Seatbelts in Cars
Today, it’s nearly impossible to drive without strapping in; laws enforce seatbelt use, and most vehicles have airbags for added protection. Back in the ’60s, seatbelts weren’t even mandatory. Most cars didn’t have them installed, and even if they did, many drivers didn’t use them.
Unregulated Advertising
Advertising once operated with far fewer restrictions, promoting everything from sugary cereals to cigarettes without much regard for the consequences. Today, stricter consumer protection laws demand truthfulness and health awareness, holding companies accountable for misleading messages.
Blatant Gender Roles
Women were expected to stay at home and take care of the household, while men went off to work. The ’60s strongly reinforced these roles. Today, gender roles have become more flexible, and there’s greater support for women in all kinds of careers and leadership positions.
Old-School Beauty Standards
The definition of beauty nowadays is much broader, celebrating diverse body types, skin tones, and unique features that weren’t always embraced back then.
In the ’60s, the beauty standards were pretty narrow, with a focus on slim, fair-skinned women. This was amplified by movies, ads, and magazines.
Unfiltered TV Shows
The humor of older TV shows, such as “The Three Stooges”, leaned heavily on physical comedy and antics that might not sit well today. Contemporary television reflects a shift toward greater sensitivity to cultural diversity and audience inclusivity.
Public Drunkenness
Casual drinking in public spaces was once a common sight, with outdoor parties and bar gatherings often involving plenty of alcohol and little oversight. Today, there’s a stronger focus on responsible drinking, and public intoxication is more likely to result in fines or arrests.
No Childproof Packaging
Many products back then came without the childproof packaging that we take for granted today. Medicines, cleaning supplies, and even foods lacked child-resistant packaging. Now, most household items come with safety caps and locks to ensure they stay out of little hands.
Tougher School Discipline
Discipline in schools during the ’60s was more about strict rules and corporal punishment. Students could face detention or even physical punishment for minor infractions. In recent times, schools have focused on fostering positive behavior, using more constructive methods rather than relying on harsh disciplinary actions.
Harmful Beauty Products
Beauty products today are held to high safety standards, with brands clearly listing ingredients. In the past, some items, like skin creams, included now-banned substances such as lead and mercury. Improved regulations ensure these hazards no longer reach consumers.
Public Smoking in Restaurants
In dining establishments of the mid-1900s, smoking sections were as common as bread baskets. Cigarette smoke filled the air, blending with the clatter of dishes. Today, smoke-free dining ensures fresh air, with smokers directed to spaces outside the main rooms.
Tougher Workplace Expectations
The ’60s work culture was about long hours with little concern for work-life balance. Overtime was expected, and there was less emphasis on personal time. Work environments are shifting toward better balance, with many businesses offering flexible hours and the option to work from home.
Drive-In Theaters
In their heyday, drive-in theaters captured the hearts of moviegoers, blending cinema with the romance of open skies. Cars lined up, radios crackled with film audio, and evenings felt magical. Though nearly extinct, the remaining drive-ins stand as cherished relics of a different time.
Colorful Kitchens
Kitchens in the ’60s were filled with bold, colorful designs—think bright yellow or lime green appliances. The more vibrant, the better. Kitchens tend to favor more neutral tones and modern appliances nowadays, but there’s still a certain charm to those retro kitchens that makes them stand out.
Outdoor Soda Machines
Outdoor soda machines were a common sight in the mid-20th century, dispensing sugary drinks into metal cans. Often found at gas stations or parking lots, they epitomized convenience. Today, vending machines are usually indoors and stocked with healthier options alongside sodas.
No Sunscreen Awareness
Sunscreen is essential to any skincare routine, with a lot of options designed to protect from harmful UV rays. The 1960s were a time when sunscreen wasn’t the staple in every beach bag. People would sometimes just rely on oil or nothing at all while soaking up the sun.
Cultural Stereotyping in Movies
Movies in the ’60s often depicted exaggerated stereotypes of various cultures. These depictions went largely unchallenged at the time. Today, Hollywood is much more cautious, with an increased focus on authenticity and respect for cultural representation in films and TV shows.
Big Hairdos for Women
The ’60s was all about big, voluminous hair. Bouffants and beehives ruled the day, and women spent hours achieving the perfect “do.” These days, hair trends are more relaxed and natural, with a focus on versatility and ease, although bold styles still come in and out of fashion.
Drive-Through Windows for Fast Food
The ’60s saw the rise of the drive-through window, changing how people got fast food. The convenience of ordering without leaving your car has become a huge trend. Fast forward to today, and drive-throughs are now a staple at fast food chains and even banks, making life easier than ever.
The Rise of Home Parties
The ’60s saw people hosting intimate home parties with friends and family. Without the distractions of social media, gatherings centered around good food, conversation, and music. Nowadays, parties have evolved, but the idea of hosting close-knit, meaningful get-togethers is still a timeless way to socialize.