Vintage 1960s Mustang – a forgotten fashion photoshoot

I was going through my old hard drive and realized that I had exported these 1960s-styled photos of St. Louis model Ashley Cancienne, yet somehow never posted them to this vintage blog! These photos are a vibrant flashback to the late 1960s, capturing a period of fashion transformation, social change, and creative expression. I styled Ashley in a vintage light green psychedelic floral minidress and a matching hat, an outfit that epitomizes the playful and experimental style embraced during that era. Since we had plans to shoot more sets later, I kept her makeup fairly neutral, accentuating her natural look but paired with a bold, bright pink lipstick for a pop of color that was iconic during the decade.

The 1960s were a revolutionary time for both fashion and society. The emergence of the minidress, pioneered by designers like Mary Quant, reflected a radical shift in women’s fashion and liberation—it was youthful, rebellious, and challenged traditional norms. The light green floral dress Ashley wore channels the vibrant energy of psychedelic prints that became popular during the mid to late 1960s. These designs were inspired by the cultural influence of the counterculture movement, which blended art, music, and fashion to create an unapologetic statement of individuality.

One of my favorite shots in this series is where Ashley is framed with a vintage red Mustang car in the background, subtly driving down an open road. This photo encapsulates not just the charm of vintage style but also the symbols of freedom and individuality that defined the time. The Mustang itself—a product of Ford’s revolutionary vision—was introduced in 1964 and became an instant classic. It represented more than a car; it embodied the American Dream, offering affordability, style, and a sense of boundless freedom for the younger generation. Its sleek design and powerful performance were an aesthetic complement to the self-expressive fashion of the ’60s.

Interestingly, I had printed the Mustang photo large for display at the Vintage Car themed exhibit hosted by the 3rd Degree Glass Factory, here in St. Louis. The exhibit featured this golden era of automobile history and its intersection with popular culture, and I distinctly remember feeling like this photo set was a perfect fit. The soft lighting and natural composition gave the images an almost dreamy, romantic quality, echoing the sense of innocence many still associate with the early and mid-1960s, before the societal upheavals later in the decade.

This entire fashion photo set feels both nostalgic and timeless. There’s a certain innocence reflected in the styling—a reminder that while 1969 saw massive cultural shifts, from Woodstock to the push for civil rights, most people were still leading their day-to-day lives, finding joy in the vibrancy of youth, personal style, and the simple pleasures of summer afternoons.

Unfortunately, I regret running a program on my photo exports back then, which degraded the quality of the JPEG files. Honestly, I was too lazy to re-export them at the time. It’s a mistake, but even now, the beauty of the photos still shines through. Despite the technical flaws, I believe these images capture the carefree spirit of the 1960s in a way that feels very personal.

Looking back at these past shoots reminds me not only of the creative endeavor involved but also of the historical context of the fashion and culture we were emulating. The late ’60s, often overshadowed by the social and political upheavals, remain a beautiful study of contrast—where youthful rebellion could coexist with soft romanticism, innovation, and artistic expression.

If anything, this photoshoot immortalizes that balance: a carefree summer afternoon reflected in Ashley’s airy dress and spirited poses, captured alongside an iconic piece of American heritage—a Mustang rolling by in all its vintage glory.

History is everywhere, in every detail—from Ashley’s lipstick to the floral dress, and even the car in the background. Together, they paint a romanticized picture of the 1960s, reminding us how much fashion and culture have evolved while still echoing these vibrant times. I hope you enjoy these snapshots of the past as much as I’ve enjoyed rediscovering and sharing them.

What are your thoughts on this forgotten photoshoot? Feel free to share your comments below!