Founded in 1906, Cherry Blossom has been the nation’s favourite shoe care brand for 120 years, rising from humble beginnings in Edwardian London to becoming a household name and a globally recognised brand. We’ve been there through changing fashions, historic moments and everyday milestones.
For 120 years, Cherry Blossom has helped generations care for the shoes that carry them through life. As we continue our journey through the decades, we arrive in 1960s Britain, a time of cultural revolution, changing attitudes, and some seriously memorable fashion.
The Decade That Changed Everything
The 1960s brought a new sense of freedom and self-expression. Young people increasingly shaped popular culture, from music and film to fashion, and Britain's high streets became more colourful, creative and experimental.
London's Carnaby Street and King's Road became fashion hotspots, with the 'Swinging Sixties' influencing styles around the world. Mary Quant's shorter hemlines, bold patterns and modern designs helped redefine women's fashion whilst bands such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones became style icons.
And all those new looks needed the right shoes.
1960s Footwear: From Mod to Chelsea Boots
Women's footwear became bolder and more playful. Knee-high boots, Mary Janes, ballet pumps and pointed-toe shoes were all popular, with block heels and bright colours adding a distinctly modern feel. As miniskirts became a defining feature of the decade, boots became increasingly visible and increasingly fashionable.
For men, the Chelsea boot became one of the decade's most recognisable styles. With its close-fitting shape and elasticated sides, it offered a sleek alternative to traditional lace-up shoes. Oxfords, loafers and brogues remained popular too, often given a more contemporary twist through bold colours and slimmer silhouettes.
Whether you were a mod heading to a London club or simply dressing up for a Saturday night, footwear had become a way to show the world who you were.
Looking After 1960s Style
With shoes becoming such an important part of an outfit, keeping them looking their best mattered. Leather footwear needed regular cleaning and polishing to remove dirt, restore shine and help protect it from everyday wear.
A well-polished pair of boots or shoes could make all the difference, especially when your footwear was designed to be seen.
Cherry Blossom in the Swinging Sixties
As British fashion captured the world's attention, Cherry Blossom continued helping households care for their favourite footwear. From school shoes and work shoes to the latest fashionable boots, trusted shoe polish helped keep leather looking smart and lasting longer.
Whilst footwear styles were changing faster than ever, one thing remained the same: great shoes deserved great care.
A Decade of Self-Expression
The 1960s proved that shoes could be practical, stylish and a little bit rebellious all at once. From Chelsea boots to colourful court shoes, footwear became an important part of personal style.
More than half a century later, fashion may have moved on, but the idea of putting your best foot forward never has.
Next article
