21 Best Fashion Trends From the 1970s That Are Still Groovy
Ah, the 1970s. A decade defined by the dissipation of “Beatlemania” and the rise of funk. By antiwar protests and hippie communes. By big, boisterous afros and large, wispy curls. While the 70s may have come and gone, there’s no doubt that the fashion of the disco era is here to stay.
Take the Goddess of Pop, Cher, for instance. Her colorful and often risque outfits from the decade very well could have been a relic of the past. But thanks to her timeless style, today’s biggest stars are still eager to recreate her most iconic looks. At the 2024 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Zendaya paid tribute to the singer by wearing a sparkling Bob Mackie gown that paid homage to a dress that Cher wore during a 1975 appearance on The Cher Show. That same night, pop singer Dua Lipa joined the 70s megastar onstage where the pair twinned in complementing leather outfits.
We can also see the influence of the “Me Decade,” as author Tom Wolfe called it, all over today’s media. In Daisy Jones & The Six, a book to TV tale about a 1970s band’s rise to fame, fashion is front and center. Indeed, the cast can be seen sporting decade-defining wardrobe staples like bell-bottom jeans, statement jackets, corduroy skirts, and far-out sunglasses. Others will say that the 70s-style renaissance is upon us–but we (and now you) know that it never really left. For more slammin’ fashion trends from the disco era, keep on reading.
Bell Bottom Jeans
We’ve been so wrapped up in the high-rise jean/ low-rise jean debate that we forgot about the real winner– bell bottom jeans. Adored for their flattering cut and versatile style, with these jeans there's only one rule: the wider the better. To really make them pop, wear them with a bodysuit or slim-fitting top.
Statement Sunglasses
Sunglasses were the knockout accessory of the 1970s, with rockstars and socialites alike wearing them at every chance. While thick frames and unconventionally colored lenses were most desired, this groovy eyewear can still zhuzh up any modern outfit.
Jumpsuits
What’s not to like about jumpsuits? Even back in the day, they served a functional and fashionable purpose, and we still see them on our favorite celebs today. To really get that synched look, pair your favorite one-piece with a statement belt.
Tie-dye
Tie-dying used to be a fun summertime activity, now it’s high fashion. That’s right. The psychedelic pattern beloved by those participating in the hippie movement–which became less popular towards the middle of the decade–is now a sophisticated wardrobe essential worn by the likes of Nicky Hilton.
Wrap Dress
“Thank you, Diane Von Furstenberg,” we all say in unison. Thanks to the fashion designer’s genius invention of the wrap dress in 1974, women’s clothing is more comfortable and stylish than ever. Designed to be in the wardrobe of every working woman, and stand the trendy test of time, the wrap dress can be found in every lady’s closet, no matter their age. Wear it with a pair of white sneakers for a more casual look or your favorite flats for upscale comfort.
Knee-High Boots
Knee-high boots may be your favorite accessory for a night out with the girls, but this closet staple hit the fashion scene hard in the 1970s thanks to girls like Jane Fonda and Farrah Fawcett. Now, they’re a bonafide wardrobe necessity. Pro tip: don’t hide your knee-high boots away by wearing them with a long dress or jeans. Rather, pair them with a mini skirt or dress to make your legs look longer.
Animal Prints
Animal prints are one of those trends that you can always expect to come back around. Whether you opt for leopard, zebra, snake, or otherwise, small pops here and there can take a modern outfit from good to va va voom.
Denim on Denim
Denim on denim used to be a fashion faux pas, but only after it was big with a capital B in the 70s. Now, this practical style can be spotted on the runway and in the supermarket aisles. Whether you pair matching denim washes or get a little adventurous by mixing them up, you really can’t go wrong.
Basket Bag
Jane Birkin had a ton of influence on 1970s fashion. But her biggest contribution would have to be the now-iconic basket bag. While she often sported a petit wicker basket bag with a casual ensemble, this loveable accessory has seen many variations over the years, from beachy styles to upscale designs. But it really doesn’t matter which variant you choose, because they go with everything.
Halterneck Top
Who doesn’t love a good halterneck? Both flirty and fun, these tops were often made from scarves or long pieces of fabric that could be tied to look like a halterneck during the decade. Today, they make the perfect summer neckline. Pair them with wide-leg trousers to really make that snug neckline pop.
Neckerchiefs
While skinny scarves had a huge boom in the 1990s, its predecessor–the neckerchief–was the cherry on top of any outfit during the disco era. Tie it around your neck, wrist, or even to your favorite bag to add a little something extra to every outfit.
Hot Pants
Short shorts might never go out of style–and that’s exactly how we like it. But did you know that this racy fashion trend gained major popularity during the 1970s? That’s right. Ever since Women’s Wear Daily coined the term during the decade to describe these ultra-short, mega-tight bottoms, we’ve seen them everywhere. Make them a bit more sophisticated by popping on a white t-shirt, trench coat, and loafers to finish off the look.
Caftan Dresses
With origins in North Africa and the Middle East, the caftan gained immense popularity in the states beginning in the 1970s. Adored for its often elaborate embroidery and breezy silhouette, we couldn’t be happier that this comfy fashion trend is back like it never left.
Corduroy
One all-over trend that’ll never die? Corduroy. From jackets to trousers to hats, this thick fabric is the cherry on top of any fall or winter wardrobe.
Crochet
Not only is crochet a beloved hobby, it also makes for totally groovy clothes. Often used for making gorgeous floral patterns way back when this artsy trend is just as hip as it was 50 years ago.
Band T-Shirts
Name a song from the musicians on your favorite band tee. Most likely, you can’t. But that doesn’t mean that you should keep it in your closet. From the Rolling Stones to Led Zeppelin, some of the hottest bands of the 1970s make for crazy cool fashion. For another layer to that rocker-chic look, add a leather jacket on top.
Platform Shoes
Flats, be gone! Worn by both men and women, platform shoes were all the rage. With their thick soles and dramatically high heels, this trend can still be worn with virtually any outfit for a night out on the town.
Pantsuits
Perhaps nothing is more powerful than a crisp pantsuit. Most worn by the proud working woman during the decade, in 2024 this professional ensemble is a must-have in everyone’s wardrobe.
Crop Tops
While the crop top craze has dissipated over the decades, it’s possible that this belly baring trend will never fully die. But did you know that this fad got its start during the women’s movement of the 1970s? DIY it by tying your favorite full-length shirt into a knot or go for an already shortened garment. But however you choose to crop, do it with confidence.
Patchwork
Patchwork brings a bit of traditional fun to any outfit. Let this trend take center stage by adding it to your favorite minimal outfit.
Florals
You can’t spell the 1970s without florals. Well, okay maybe you can. But this print is truly decade-defining. Coming off of the Flower Power movement of the 1960s, this print was everywhere in the following decade. And it’s still just as swoon-worthy. While we love it most in skirts and dresses, take your look a step further by matching a bag or pair of shoes with the flower pattern in question.
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