1. Farrah Fawcett
Farrah Fawcett’s influence on ’70s fashion is undeniable. Her iconic red swimsuit poster became a symbol of the era, representing both beauty and confidence. But her style went beyond just a picture; her tousled hair, natural makeup, and casual yet glamorous outfits made her the ultimate style muse. Farrah’s relaxed yet effortlessly chic vibe was something women of the ’70s gravitated towards, seeking that perfect balance of glamour and approachability.
Her flair for casual elegance stood out, especially in her day-to-day wardrobe choices. Whether she was rocking a denim jacket or a simple blouse, Farrah’s look was always polished but never overly fussy. She also made the “California girl” aesthetic a thing, inspiring countless women to embrace beachy waves, light makeup, and relaxed outfits. It’s safe to say Farrah redefined the idea of casual, California-cool in a way that still influences fashion today.
2. Jane Birkin
When it comes to ’70s style, few names carry as much weight as Jane Birkin. Known for her effortlessly chic approach to fashion, Jane’s look became synonymous with Parisian cool. She made the “no makeup, messy hair” aesthetic a high fashion statement, often pairing simple pieces like t-shirts, jeans, and cardigans in a way that looked both understated and luxurious. Birkin was one of the first to mix comfort with high-end style, influencing fashion trends for decades to come.
Her most famous accessory, the Birkin bag, became a coveted item after her chance encounter with the Hermès CEO. But it was her entire aesthetic—the soft, feminine pieces, the wide-leg pants, and the earthy colors—that inspired a generation. Jane showed the world that looking cool didn’t require an over-the-top wardrobe, just a deep understanding of personal style and an appreciation for timeless pieces. Her effortless elegance is something that still resonates in fashion today.
3. Bianca Jagger
Bianca Jagger was the epitome of rock ‘n’ roll glamour in the ’70s. As a model, actress, and activist, she became known for her bold, daring fashion choices that blurred the lines between masculine and feminine. One of her most iconic looks was the white tuxedo suit she wore to her wedding to Mick Jagger, which became a symbol of power, confidence, and rebellion. She wasn’t afraid to take risks, and her outfits often included sharp tailoring, bold prints, and eye-catching accessories.
Bianca’s look was anything but conventional, and that’s exactly what made it so influential. She was one of the first to embrace the androgynous style, pairing tailored pantsuits with glamorous jewelry or mixing casual wear with high fashion. Her fashion sense was a reflection of her free spirit and independent nature, influencing not only the fashion world but also social movements. Bianca Jagger’s style remains a benchmark for those who love to mix high-end sophistication with a bit of rebellious edge.
4. Twiggy
Twiggy, with her signature pixie cut and doe-eyed look, became the face of the ’60s, but it was in the ’70s that she cemented her role as a fashion icon. Known for her mod style, Twiggy continued to influence the fashion world with her androgynous look and emphasis on minimalism. Her unique, boyish charm made her the perfect muse for many designers, and she effortlessly balanced her petite frame with bold fashion choices.
She was a champion of the more avant-garde looks that came to define the early ’70s, wearing sleek, geometric patterns, and simple yet striking silhouettes. Twiggy also embraced the natural beauty movement of the ’70s, often sporting little to no makeup, which made her an advocate for more natural looks. Her style was all about ease and simplicity, showing the world that less could truly be more. To this day, Twiggy remains one of the most influential models in history.
5. Steve McQueen
Steve McQueen wasn’t just a movie star—he was a fashion icon. Known for his rugged good looks and charisma, McQueen’s style was all about understated masculinity and effortless cool. His love for classic, timeless pieces like leather jackets, t-shirts, and chinos made him the poster child for the casual, rebellious look that dominated the ’70s. McQueen had a unique ability to turn simple, everyday clothing into an expression of style.
His love for sports cars, motorcycles, and rugged outdoor activities also influenced his fashion choices, making them functional yet undeniably stylish. The “King of Cool,” as he was often called, helped redefine how men dressed in the ’70s by favoring pieces that were both practical and fashionable. Steve McQueen’s wardrobe continues to inspire modern menswear, making him a lasting symbol of masculine style.
6. Cher
Cher is not just a pop culture legend, she’s also a ’70s fashion icon. Known for her daring and extravagant outfits, Cher embraced the bold, bohemian style of the ’70s with an unparalleled flair. She became a master at combining glamour with an earthy, free-spirited vibe, often mixing sequins with flowing fabrics and headpieces. Cher’s costumes on stage were often as memorable as her music, with each outfit reflecting her larger-than-life persona.
Her look evolved throughout the decade, from hippie-inspired garments to more sophisticated, glam-rock ensembles. Cher also embraced a bold use of color, often rocking full head-to-toe ensembles in bright hues like gold, silver, and jewel tones. Her fashion choices were always ahead of their time, helping her become not just a pop star, but a style trailblazer. Cher’s influence on both fashion and pop culture is still felt today, and her iconic looks are as revered as her musical legacy.
7. David Bowie
David Bowie was more than just a musician—he was a chameleon when it came to fashion. Known for his ever-evolving looks, Bowie pushed boundaries in the ’70s with his glam rock persona. His flamboyant costumes, bold makeup, and unique sense of style captivated audiences and set new trends. His Ziggy Stardust character was all about the freedom of expression, mixing bright colors, space-age accessories, and striking patterns in a way that had never been seen before.
Bowie’s approach to fashion was always experimental, never afraid to challenge the norms of gender and identity. He played with masculinity and femininity, creating a look that was both androgynous and futuristic. His influence stretched far beyond music, and he helped redefine what it meant to be stylish in the ’70s. Bowie’s fashion choices paved the way for countless musicians, artists, and fans to express themselves freely and boldly.
8. Ali MacGraw
Ali MacGraw embodied the ’70s bohemian chic look with a laid-back yet polished style. Known for her role in Love Story, Ali’s fashion was just as memorable as her acting. She made simple pieces like turtlenecks, wide-leg pants, and leather jackets look incredibly fashionable and effortlessly cool. Ali’s wardrobe was often filled with earthy tones and natural fabrics, creating a look that was grounded in both comfort and style.
Her minimalist, natural beauty resonated with the ’70s trend of embracing individuality. Whether she was wearing a flowing dress or a sharp blazer, Ali had a way of making everything seem like it came effortlessly. Her soft, natural look was a breath of fresh air during a time when many other celebrities embraced a more glitzy style. Ali MacGraw’s contribution to ’70s fashion will always be remembered for its simplicity and enduring elegance.
