1970s Fashion Tips for Spring and Summer

23 Jun

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.

etro spring 2015 photo by CHRISTOPHER MACSURAK

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

View image | gettyimages.com

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

View image | gettyimages.com

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

View image | gettyimages.com

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.