The 1970s were a decade of good vibes and even better tunes. Historical, political, and social events all largely fuelled the self-expression craze in the 70’s—especially fashion.
The Beatles broke up, The Vietnam War persisted, and everyone became infatuated with Disco in the 1970s. The 70’s fashion was influenced by a variety of musicians, movies, including the blockbuster “Saturday Night Fever,” television shows, the war, the women’s liberation movement, and Earth Day, among many other events occurring back then. Events of the 70’s greatly influenced the outrageous fun and hip fashion industry as well and are still seen today in various forms.
The most typical reminiscences of 1970s fashion are about big, bold styles, but not this time. In 2015, the relaxed glamour of the 70’s is as subtle as a butterfly’s kiss. One trend was disco clothing, tube tops, sequined shirts, blazers, pantsuits, and miniskirts. Another was the hippie look which was tie-dye shirts, bell-bottom pants, and jeans. Headbands, scarves, and floppy hats were just some of the accessories adorned by this trend.
The nostalgia for 70’s fashion has never come to an end. 2021 marked the return of clogs, which was another really popular type of footwear in the 1970s. Celebs and High-fashion designers, in particular, are making a significant case for a return to the ’70s fashion trends to channel this year’s sense of optimism.
Good news for those who are not fans of this decade – you can keep your mother’s bell bottoms where they belong – on the bottom of her closet. This time, master subtle 70s chic in denim, retro lapels, daring colour combinations and flared pants. The other major trends that take a cue from 1970s are coloured suede and soft summer dresses.
To embrace the fashion’s retro revival, look for a one statement piece with the power to transform. Judging from the runway pictures, the carefree spirit of 1970’s fashion can be recreated with the following garments:
Suede jacket
Thanks to its ubiquitous presence on the spring runways, the fringed jacket is one of the best ways to work the season’s ’70s trend. Make this suede piece the focal point of your look by styling it with pared-back separates. Looking for something bolder? Team with skinny jeans, Western boots and an undone skinny silk scarf for rock’n’roll edge. As seen in: Max Mara, Gucci, Derek Lam.
Flared pants
If suede outerwear is not your cup of tea, you can always channel the season’s ’70s mood in flare pants. Look for styles that are tight at the top and fashionably wide at the bottom. For the for leg-lengthening effect, find styles with a flattering high-waist. Farrah Fawcett mastered flares by pairing them with a peasant blouse and platform shoes. As seen in: Michael Kors, Jean Paul Gaultier, Elie Saab, Giambattista Valli.
Haute hippie dress
This maxi dress is a modern reinterpretation of a boho-chic style. Made of light fabrics such as silk-chiffon, the breezy 1970s-inspired summer dresses come in multiple colours and prints. Our favourite styles feature tiers and tasseled trims which catch the eye with every step. This chic style needs appropriate background such as gold jewellery and wind-swept hair. As seen in: Saint Laurent, Guy Laroche, Missoni, Etro.
1970s fashion tips
The 1970s were characterized by a wide range of fashion styles, from the bohemian and hippie looks of the early part of the decade to the disco-inspired styles of the later years. Here are some of the key features of 1970s fashion:
Flared pants: Flared pants, also known as bell-bottoms, were a popular style in the 1970s. These pants were fitted at the top and flared out at the bottom, often with a dramatic flare that covered the shoes.
Platform shoes: Platform shoes, with their thick soles and high heels, were a popular shoe style in the 1970s. These shoes were often worn with flared pants or skirts, and could add several inches to a person’s height.
Maxi dresses: Maxi dresses, long dresses that often grazed the floor, were a popular style in the early 1970s. These dresses were often made of lightweight fabrics and featured bold patterns and prints.
Denim: Denim was a popular fabric in the 1970s, often worn in the form of flared jeans, jean jackets, and denim skirts. These items were often decorated with patches or embroidery.
Jumpsuits: Jumpsuits, one-piece outfits that combined a top and pants, were a popular style in the 1970s. These outfits were often made of lightweight fabrics and featured bold patterns and prints.
Disco style: In the later part of the decade, disco-inspired styles became popular, characterized by sparkly fabrics, tight-fitting clothes, and bold accessories. This included items such as sequin dresses, shiny suits, and glittery platform shoes.
Overall, 1970s fashion was characterized by a bold, eclectic mix of styles that reflected the changing attitudes and cultural shifts of the time. From the bohemian and hippie looks of the early years to the disco-inspired styles of the later part of the decade, fashion in the 1970s was all about expressing individuality and embracing new trends.
1970s fashion inspiration
There were many iconic actresses and models in the 1970s whose style has continued to inspire fashion trends even today. Here are a few examples: Farrah Fawcett, Bianca Jagger, Debbie Harry, Jane Birkin.
Farrah Fawcett was an American actress and model who rose to fame in the 1970s with her role on the TV show “Charlie’s Angels.” She was known for her feathered hair, high-waisted jeans, and fitted tops, which became iconic styles of the decade. Bianca Jagger was a Nicaraguan-born socialite and actress who was married to Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger. She was known for her sleek, glamorous style, often wearing tailored suits and dresses in bold colors and patterns. Debbie Harry was the lead singer of the band Blondie, which was popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s. She was known for her punk-inspired style, often wearing leather jackets, ripped t-shirts, and tight pants. Jane Birkin was an English actress and singer who was known for her effortless, bohemian style. She often wore flowy dresses, denim shorts, and loose-fitting tops, and her look was characterized by its relaxed, carefree vibe.
Overall, these actresses and models embodied the style and spirit of the 1970s, each with their own unique take on the fashion of the era. Their iconic looks continue to inspire fashion trends and serve as a source of inspiration for those seeking to recreate the timeless style of the 1970s.