What was your exposure to ‘70s fashion? Maybe you rocked that era’s fashions yourself, or maybe you’re a super big fan of That ‘70s Show. Either way, this decade’s style is still inspiring us today.
’70s Clothes Fashion Tips
With the current rise of ‘70s clothing taking over fashion, it can be hard to know where to start. Big collars, springtime prints, floral pops of color: there’s so much to explore. However, it’s a fine line between ‘70s classic and ‘70s costume. So, if ‘70s clothing is a vibe you’re connecting with, here are our best tips.
'70s fashion is all about being bold, individual, and expressing your unique style. It’s only natural to want to bring the best elements of this era back. Plus, the great thing is, ‘70s clothing already exists, so it happens to be an incredibly sustainable option that is also completely on-trend. There are elements of ‘70s style that can be incorporated into any wardrobe, for a sleek and stylish interpretation of the decade’s top trends.
Nothing really compares to the styles that the ’70s gave us: iconic collar shapes, suede, pencil skirts, wide-leg pants and bellbottoms, corduroy, vests, turtlenecks, combining colors, textures, and patterns—all while looking completely unique and individual.
Men of the ‘70s dressed in a way that broke down the gender restrictions of fashion set by the previous decades. They went from strict silhouettes, grays, and blacks, and suits being the norm, to full-on color and texture explosions. When the 70’s hit, men were finally not only allowed but also encouraged to express their style. No matter what elements of ‘70s fashion you connect with, every time you wear a piece that came from the ‘70s, you are honoring the era of fashion that finally celebrated men as participants in fashion. ‘70s fashion freed men and allowed them to finally have a voice in the fashion industry to voice their style.
Whatever your style preferences are, there is room for the ‘70s look to spice up your closet.
Here are our best tips for those looking for the feeling that wearing ‘70s clothing can give you.
Hippie or Disco?
The first style element of the ‘70s that likely comes to mind is, of course, the rise of hippie fashion. However, hippie fashion actually stems from the late ’60s. It was all about peasant blouses, loose silhouettes, and cottons: letting things be loose and moveable instead of structured and restrictive. This style took over the early ‘60s and led to the bright and shiny aspects that took over the disco dance floor of the later ’70s.
You can dress using these style aspects by taking certain elements, without not copying a whole look, for an updated, unique take on ‘70s trends. If you’re the kind of guy who likes to let loose on the dance floor, or even who just likes to make wherever you go feel like a party, channel that through choosing a satin belt or a bold color.
Jean Jacket
Having a staple jean jacket is key when developing your sense of style. A go-to jean jacket is something you take with you just about anywhere and goes with just about any outfit. A jean jacket just gets better with time, and the more worn it gets, the more it becomes fitted to your exact measurements.
New denim starts out incredibly rigid and stiff, and over time becomes more and more worn. Part of the fun of getting a jean jacket second-hand from the '70s is that you’re carrying its story on while giving it a new chance at life, too.
The more comfortable you get in your jean jacket, the more it will look like it was made specifically for you. If you keep it around long enough, your jean jacket might even become an heirloom piece that you can pass on to your grandkids. To make yours personal, consider adding patches or embroidery for an even more customized and retro feel. Add them as you go on, and continue adding to the history of this true one-of-a-kind piece.
Bold Colors and Prints
What’s more of an homage to the ’70s than a bold color or print? Choose a floral print as a shirt, or go that extra mile and be the talk of the party with a fun tie. You can also experiment with colors, looking towards deep reds, mustards, deep blues, or tans. These rich colors will add warmth to your closet’s color palette and showcase a classic, timeless feel.
Simple Styles in Classic Colors
On the other hand, the ‘70s are also known for their classic, understated, subdued color pairings. Sometimes, putting the simplest colors together creates something truly unique.
If you are more about shapes, structures, and silhouettes, and less about floral, bright, stand-out pieces, then 70’s fashion can still fit your style. Consider matching a floral collared shirt with a baby-blue denim pant or choosing one stand-out piece to go with your other everyday pieces.
Go for a Collar
A classic collar can give a casual elegance to the most basic of looks. A collar draws attention to your neckline and frames your face. The ’70s are an era known for their unique, bold collar shapes on everything from T-shirts to jackets. Having a fun collar is the perfect “I just threw this on” feel while being effortlessly classic and making a statement with a simple piece.
No matter the color, pattern, or floral print, the collar will accentuate it. There are so many types of collar shapes out there that came from the ‘70s; no matter what your neckline is, this is sure to be one that is right for you. You might even want to consider throwing on a sweater vest over your collared shirt for a cozy feel and an on-trend look.
Patterns
Patterns are quintessential in ‘70s fashion. They are arguably one of the most distinguishing points of the era, and with good reason. Fun, bold, or floral patterns will take your look to an entirely new level, and will likely garner many compliments.
Choosing a floral is a fun way to explore color, pattern, and texture while channeling a ‘70s look and feel that is personal and unique to your individual style. The great thing about ‘70s fashion is that whatever you find, it is likely to be one-of-a-kind. You will be able to curate your closet to your unique specifications and only add what you really want. Whichever patterns you find will stay with you for a long, long time.
There are so many nuances that set each ‘70s floral and pattern apart, but choosing one you feel connected to, whether in a collared shirt or tie, will likely be what you are drawn to when choosing your outfits. Whatever the print you choose, make sure it’s one that you love, so it doesn’t just sit in your closet.
Let Your T-Shirt Do the Talking
A ‘70s graphic T-shirt or floral polo will make a statement while still being a simple go-to piece. A graphic t-shirt or printed polo goes perfectly with a wide-leg pant or bellbottom. Throw a jean jacket over it for a look that screams guitar-player-chic
Bell-Bottoms
Classic bell-bottoms move with you as you swagger and make even the most casual strolls look like a dance. They beckon a call to the roller rink or the disco while also elongating legs and creating an iconic silhouette. Choosing a looser pant and a tighter top is another staple in honing your ‘70s fashion choices.
Whatever You Do, Just Go for It
The key to channeling a modern, retro, ‘70s look is going looser on the bottom and tighter on the top. Mixing prints and bright colors with your modern wardrobe will make for a timeless look. And remember, the essence of ‘70s fashion is, no matter what, owning it.
Remember that taking care of your vintage clothing is a big part of keeping your clothing for as long as possible. Let your ‘70s fashion choices make you more confident in channeling your unique individuality because that is where the heart of ‘70s fashion lies.
Sources:
How to Care for Your Delicate and Vintage Garments, All the Products and Tips | Vogue
Clothing History: Fashion and Style in the 1970s | Bellatory
70s Fashion for Men (How to Get the 1970s Style) | The Trend Spotter
