The Vietnam War played a role in the start of hippie fashion in the 1960s. As young people protested the war, they expressed themselves through colorful, peaceful clothing that represented freedom, youth, and non-conformity. Having more financial independence after the war, young hippies created their own styles to show their identities, often wearing loose, natural fabrics decorated with symbols of peace like flowers. Their fashion choices allowed them to openly oppose the war and seek change.