The 1970s were a golden age of fashion, with icons like David Bowie, Soul Train, and Studio 54 defining the era’s daring style. It was a time of creativity, freedom, and flair, reflected in the bold clothing choices of the decade.
Fast-forward to today, and '70s fashion is experiencing a major revival. After years of minimalist looks dominating, people are gravitating toward more colorful, joyful, and expressive styles. It’s no wonder that this vibrant era is making a comeback in wardrobes everywhere.
Personally, even though I lean toward minimalist outfits, I sometimes crave something different. When I need a refresh, I blend my usual style with a touch of the '70s - like swapping out jeans for pleated trousers or trading sneakers for loafers.
Let’s dive into the key 1970s trends you can incorporate into your look today!
Corduroy
Corduroy’s ribbed texture gives it a unique, worn-in look that’s cozy yet cool. The fabric’s softness and structure captured the relaxed spirit of the '70s, appearing in everything from jackets to suits to flared pants.
Today, corduroy has evolved into a workwear staple, with slim-fit pants and lighter jackets like chore jackets and overshirts offering a contemporary twist on this classic fabric.
Suede
Suede was everywhere in the '70s, worn by style icons like Bob Dylan and John Lennon. Its soft, velvety texture gave off a rock 'n' roll vibe, a feeling that still resonates today.
A suede biker jacket or pair of Chelsea boots adds instant edge to any outfit. Just be mindful of the weather - suede and rain don’t mix!
Turtleneck Sweaters
Turtlenecks, or roll-necks, have always been a cold-weather favorite. They offer the warmth of a scarf with a more polished look. In the '70s, turtlenecks were a stylish alternative to the typical dress shirt, often worn under suits for a sleek, sophisticated vibe.
Pair a turtleneck with a tailored jacket, and you’ve got an effortlessly sharp winter look.
Flared Trousers
Flared pants are back, thanks to designers like Hedi Slimane at Celine and Alessandro Michele at Gucci. This '70s staple, loved by rock stars and hippies alike, is once again making waves.
If you ask your parents, they might recall your dad sporting flared trousers with a mullet - seriously stylish at the time!
Silk Shirts
The '70s loved bold patterns, and silk shirts were no exception. Paisley, floral, and polka dots in bright colors were common, making a loud statement about personal style.
Loose, flowing silk shirts balanced out a strong masculine build and were perfect for capturing attention.
Sportswear
The pandemic accelerated the rise of sportswear, and now colorful tracksuits are back in full force. Windbreakers are perfect when paired with jeans or chinos, and retro tracksuits have become style staples once again.
Windbreakers are always easy to pair with jeans or chinos.
In "The Gentlemen" (2019), while many characters are styled in sharp suits and elegant attire, Colin Farrell and his crew's checked tracksuits leave an indelible impression.
Even before COVID, the concept of "casualization" had started to emerge with the diverse arrival of sweatshirts, hoodies, joggers, and more.
Retro Sneakers
The '70s love for mobility put sneakers at the forefront of fashion. From adidas Superstar to Nike Cortez, retro sneakers dominated training fields and sidewalks alike.
These timeless designs have made their way back into today’s fashion, offering both comfort and style.
Knitted Vests
The knitted vest, once considered a dated piece, is now back in vogue. Loose-fitting V-neck vests from brands like Prada and COS offer modern takes on this classic layer.
Whether over a short-sleeve or long-sleeve shirt, a knitted vest adds texture and style to your outfit, making it a versatile and easy-to-wear item.
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