Smoking In The 60’s: What Made It Different?

Introduction

The 1960s were an iconic era filled with vibrant fashion, groundbreaking music, and a sense of rebellion. Cigarette smoking was an integral part of the culture, adding an extra layer of allure to the decade. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what it was like to smoke cigarettes in the 1960s, exploring the social, cultural, and atmospheric aspects of this ubiquitous pastime.

The Cultural Coolness of Cigarettes

1. The James Dean Effect: Smoking in the 60s was synonymous with coolness and rebellion. Figures like James Dean, with a cigarette dangling from his lips, embodied the spirit of the era. It was a symbol of nonconformity and effortless cool.
2. The Rat Pack and Glamour: The Rat Pack, led by Frank Sinatra, was the epitome of suave sophistication. They were often seen with a cocktail in one hand and a cigarette in the other, creating an aura of glamour and debonair charm.
3. Film and Television: Smoking in movies and TV shows was not just common but expected. Cigarettes were often used to convey characters’ emotions, and iconic scenes were punctuated by the lighting of a cigarette.

Social Scenarios of Smoking

1. Cafes and Coffeehouses: Cafes and coffeehouses were bustling hubs of intellectual exchange. Picture yourself in a dimly lit café, jazz playing softly in the background, smoke swirling in the air as you engage in deep conversations with friends and fellow patrons.
2. Late-Night Jazz Clubs: The allure of late-night jazz clubs was heightened by the ambiance of cigarette smoke. As you swayed to the rhythm of the music, the dimly lit room added to the mystique of the experience.
3. High Society Parties: Smoking was a norm at high-society gatherings. Imagine yourself at a swanky cocktail party, martini in one hand and a cigarette holder in the other, mingling with artists, musicians, and intellectuals.

Different Smoking Styles

1. Filtered vs. Unfiltered: The 1960s saw a variety of cigarette options, from unfiltered classics to the emergence of filtered cigarettes. Each style had its unique charm, with unfiltered cigarettes often associated with authenticity and filtered ones with modernity.
2. Cigarette Holders: Cigarette holders weren’t just for show; they were a statement of elegance. Holding a long, slender cigarette holder lent an air of sophistication to the act of smoking.
3. Roll-Your-Own: Rolling your own cigarettes was a common practice, adding a personal touch to the experience. It was a skill that many smokers took pride in, and it allowed for customizing the blend and strength of the tobacco.

The 1960s – A Smoke-Filled Era

1. Smoke-Filled Rooms: Smoking was prevalent indoors, creating an atmosphere where conversations seemed to float in a haze of tobacco. From restaurants to offices, the scent of cigarette smoke was a part of daily life.
2. Fashion Accessory: Smoking was not just an action but a fashion accessory. The way you held your cigarette, the elegance with which you exhaled, and the nonchalant flick of ashes all contributed to your personal style.

Conclusion

Smoking in the 1960s was more than just a habit; it was a lifestyle. It was a time when cigarettes were an integral part of social interactions, fashion, and cultural coolness. The 60s captured the essence of a bygone era when smoking was more about style and camaraderie than health concerns. Looking back, it’s a reminder of how culture and perception can evolve over time, leaving behind a trail of nostalgia and charm.