17 Vintage Photos of the 1960s Twist

Vintage Photos History Nostalgia May 6, 2025

Last Updated on May 6, 2025 by Matt Staff

Located within the realm of nostalgia lies a lively collection of 17 vintage photos of the “Twist” dance that took the world by storm in the sixties. These timeless snapshots provide a glimpse into a bygone era.

Back then, the dance floor did swirl with all kinds of energy and iconic style. So, take a step back in time and firmly immerse yourself in the cultural vibrancy and notable moments from such a fun era in history with these 1960s Twist photos. The “Twist” really was a sight to behold. When done right or wrong, at that.

1. Chubby Checker doing the twist in 1961

A woman in a sleeveless dress and a man in a suit and tie are joyfully dancing together, striking energetic poses against a plain white background.
mista_robot0

So smooth.

2. Doing the Mashed Potato Twist in 1962

A group of young men and women energetically dancing in a crowded room, with several people watching in the background. The scene has a vintage, black-and-white 1960s atmosphere.
hjuggernaut

You know it’s getting real when the Twist takes on some mashed potato inspiration.

3. Dancing the twist in Bamako, Mali in 1965

A black-and-white photo of a woman in a dress dancing energetically with a man in a suit, while three other men in suits watch and react in the background. The atmosphere appears lively and joyful.

They’re nailing it.

4. Teens dancing the Twist at the Majestic Ballroom, Newcastle, 1962

A black-and-white photo of a crowd watching a couple dancing energetically; the woman with light hair is dramatically dipped backward by her partner while onlookers react with curiosity and excitement.
artman

The teens and their bottomless well of energy knew no bounds.

5. Marine Pfc. Bob Kamineki dances the twist with Jayne Mansfield at the U.S. Naval Station Argentina, Newfoundland, in the sixties

A woman in plaid pants and a tank top dances energetically with a man in military uniform on stage. A "USO Shows" sign and musical instruments are visible in the background. The scene appears lively and playful.
reporteratlarge

Jayne Mansfield knew how to break those hearts.

6. Michael Douglas trying out the Twist back in the sixties at a birthday party.

A young man and woman in 1960s attire dance together and smile; the man wears a tie and shirt while the woman is in a sleeveless dress. Another man in a plaid jacket is visible in the background.
seasonedtimetravler

Michael Douglas probably nailed the Twist.

7. A couple takes on the Twist out in Germany in the sixties

A woman and a man dance together, both wearing light-colored shirts. The background shows other people sitting and a drum set, suggesting a lively social event. The image is in black and white.
kjarolik

The Twist was everywhere to be found.

8. Chubby Checker, Conway Twitty, and Dick Clark do the Twist

Three men in dress shirts and slacks pose mid-dance, smiling and leaning forward with bent knees and raised arms, in an industrial setting with metal scaffolding in the background.
deleted

And it looks like they nailed their matching fits.

9. A couple tackles the Twist in 1966

A man in a suit and tie and a woman in a light dress are dancing together at a lively indoor event, possibly in the 1960s. A live band is visible playing in the background.
almaznowilder

The Twist is really such a fun dance to do with your partner.

10. This guy’s nickname was “King Twist the First”

A black-and-white photo shows a woman kneeling on the floor, reaching toward a man leaning back dramatically. Another man reaches for her from behind. Two other people dance in the background. All are dressed in vintage clothing.
thebirdinhand

I can absolutely see why too.

11. Mr Ed watches Clint Eastwood & Connie Hines dance the “Twist”, 1962

A man and a woman smile and laugh together outside near a light-colored horse. The man wears a polo shirt and dark pants; the woman wears a patterned blouse and pants. They appear to be enjoying each other's company.
wguy62

Oh, Clint must’ve been king of the Twist.

12. Audrey Hepburn doing the Twist in 1962

A black-and-white photo of elegantly dressed people at a formal event; a smiling woman in a sleeveless gown is in focus, surrounded by others in evening wear, dancing or socializing.
deleted

Audrey Hepburn knew how to stun them.

13. Model and actress Sabrina (aka Norma Sykes) dancing the Twist at the Peppermint Lounge, Sydney, Australia, January 1962

A woman in a strapless dress dances energetically in the foreground, smiling, while a live band of four men with instruments plays behind her; another man dances nearby. The scene appears lively and festive.
ibkeeper

The Peppermint Lounge was truly the place to be.

14. Doing the Twist back in 1961

A group of men and women in 1960s clothing dance energetically in a line, leaning back with bent knees on a checkered floor, smiling and enjoying themselves at an indoor event.
jaykirsch

The Twist could get a little dicey at times.

15. Busy twisting the night away in 1962

The 1960s Twist photos always bring the energy.
dhorlin

Oh they’re getting busy with the Twist indeed.

16. Just casually nailing the Twist in the 1960s

Two young women in vintage dresses dance energetically at a party, while people in the background watch and join in. The black-and-white photo gives a retro, lively feel.
gagator43

The no-shoes with the Twist is a bold move.

17. The Twist comes to London, in 1962

Two women on a city sidewalk are smiling and playing, one wearing a short-sleeved dress and the other in striped pants, a hooded jacket, and sunglasses. Cars and people are visible in the street behind them.
skipperbob

London really got down with the Twist.

Explore more electric content from the 1960s:

If you’re enjoying this nostalgic journey through the 1960s, be sure to explore more captivating moments from the era. Delve into everyday life with 20 Family Photos That Capture the True Spirit of the ’60s, or relive the decade’s essence through 60 Vintage Photos of the 1960s. For a touch of glamour, don’t miss 20 Colorized Photos of Hollywood From the 1960s. And if you’re curious about family traditions of the time, check out 1960s Family Traditions We Rarely Practice Today.

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