The 1970s were a decade of bold self-expression, but when it came to fashion, sometimes that expression was more of a scream than a statement. It was an era when boundaries were pushed, and it often seemed like designers were challenging each other to see just how far they could go. From wild prints to questionable cuts, the ’70s brought us trends that left us wondering, “What were we thinking?” Join us as we take a colorful and, let’s be honest, a bit cringeworthy walk down memory lane with 12 absurd fashion trends from the grooviest decade of all.
1. Leisure Suits
The leisure suit was the ultimate ’70s power move—a polyester two-piece that felt as comfortable as pajamas but looked… well, let’s just say distinctive. These suits came in a rainbow of colors, often with wide lapels, flared pants, and a shirt with a collar large enough to double as a sail. They were marketed as versatile, but in reality, they looked out of place almost everywhere. Though they’ve become a punchline today, back then, slipping into a leisure suit made you feel like you owned the dance floor—or at least the local disco.
2. Platform Shoes
Platform shoes took the saying “walking tall” to a whole new level—sometimes five inches higher. These chunky-soled wonders weren’t just for women; men rocked them too, often pairing them with flared pants that barely skimmed the ground. While they added height, they also added a high risk of twisted ankles. Whether you loved them or feared for your balance, there’s no denying that platforms made every step a bold statement.
3. Bell-Bottoms
Bell-bottoms didn’t just flare—they practically exploded from the knee down. These pants were tight through the thigh and then kicked out dramatically, sometimes to such an extent that they looked like small parachutes. They were often worn with clogs or platforms, completing a look that was as impractical as it was iconic. Whether made of denim, corduroy, or wild patterned fabrics, bell-bottoms turned every sidewalk into a catwalk—or a tripping hazard.
4. Jumpsuits
Nothing says commitment like a jumpsuit—because once you put it on, there’s no quick escape. The ’70s jumpsuit came in every style imaginable, from disco-ready metallics to workwear-inspired denim. They often featured zippers, belts, and wide collars, making them look like a mix between a mechanic’s uniform and a sci-fi costume. As impractical as they were, jumpsuits were strangely versatile, perfect for everything from roller disco to running errands—assuming you didn’t need a bathroom break.
5. Tie-Dye Everything
Tie-dye wasn’t just a trend; it was a lifestyle choice. The technique, which created vibrant, swirling patterns, was a staple of the counterculture movement and quickly spread to mainstream fashion. From T-shirts and dresses to socks and even bedspreads, if you could dye it, you could tie it. While the results were often colorful and fun, some of the DIY attempts looked less like fashion statements and more like art class accidents.
6. Hot Pants
Hot pants were exactly what they sounded like—tiny shorts that left very little to the imagination. Often made of bold fabrics like satin or even leather, these shorts were paired with knee-high boots or patterned tights. They were a favorite for those who wanted to show off their legs, but sitting down or bending over became a strategic endeavor. While undeniably bold, hot pants walked the fine line between fashion and costume.
7. Peasant Blouses
With their billowy sleeves, loose fit, and often-embroidered details, peasant blouses gave off a carefree, bohemian vibe. These tops were inspired by traditional European folk clothing but were reimagined with a hippie twist. They were often paired with maxi skirts or bell-bottoms, creating a look that seemed perfect for wandering through a field of daisies. Comfortable and flowy, they might have been a bit costume-like, but at least they weren’t restrictive—unless, of course, the laces were tied too tight.
8. Maxi Dresses
The maxi dress took floor-length fashion to new extremes, often with bold prints and plenty of flowing fabric. These dresses were part boho-chic, part bridesmaid gown, and all drama. They came in everything from floral patterns to psychedelic swirls, and the more they resembled a bedspread, the better. While they were undoubtedly comfortable, navigating stairs or a strong breeze in a maxi dress was an adventure in its own right.
9. Velour Tracksuits
Long before athleisure was a thing, the velour tracksuit reigned supreme. These soft, shiny outfits were often worn as casual wear, combining the comfort of pajamas with the sheen of disco attire. Matching tops and bottoms in vibrant colors made everyone look ready to hit the gym—or the couch. While they had a cozy appeal, the velour tracksuit is a reminder that not all comfortable fashion ages well.
10. Wrap Dresses
Diane von Furstenberg’s wrap dress became a phenomenon in the ’70s, offering a flattering fit with its iconic tie-waist design. While many of these dresses were chic and timeless, some took the trend to the extreme with wild patterns and plunging necklines. They were marketed as versatile for both the office and the disco, but transitioning from work to play required a bit of fashion bravery. The wrap dress managed to balance practicality with a hint of daring, proving that not all ’70s trends were too far out.
11. Ascot Scarves
An ascot scarf wasn’t just an accessory; it was a statement of sophistication—or at least, that was the hope. These silky neck scarves were often worn by men with button-down shirts or leisure suits, giving off an air of European flair. The look landed somewhere between “dapper” and “dandy,” but not everyone could pull it off. When styled right, it was suave, but when styled wrong, it looked more like you were headed to a costume party.
12. Clogs
Clogs were the shoe that nobody asked for but everybody seemed to wear. These chunky, wooden-soled shoes weren’t exactly known for comfort or practicality, but they were undeniably trendy. Whether worn with bell-bottoms or maxi dresses, clogs made a loud clunk with every step. While they offered a bit of height and a lot of attitude, they weren’t exactly the safest choice for a quick jog—or even a brisk walk.
While some of these ’70s trends might make us chuckle today, they’re also a testament to a decade that wasn’t afraid to take risks. Fashion in the ’70s was all about self-expression, even if that expression sometimes came in the form of polyester leisure suits or towering platforms. And hey, with the way trends cycle back around, who knows—maybe we’ll see some of these groovy styles on the runway again.
