1. Bell-Bottom Overload
Bell-bottoms were more than just pants in the ’70s—they were practically a cultural uniform. The wide flares swished dramatically with every step, and the more exaggerated they were, the cooler you looked. They came in denim, corduroy, or polyester, and often in wild colors or prints. Paired with platform shoes, they made legs look a mile long and added a confident swagger to every walk.
By the mid-’70s, bell-bottoms had taken over wardrobes for men, women, and even kids. Designers leaned into the drama, making them a staple on dance floors and at casual hangouts alike. You couldn’t walk down the street without seeing a dozen pairs in every direction. While they eventually gave way to slimmer cuts, their larger-than-life style made them unforgettable.
2. Polyester Everything
Polyester in the ’70s was everywhere, from casual tees to full-on evening wear. People loved it because it was wrinkle-resistant, easy to wash, and available in every color under the sun. Leisure suits, dresses, and jumpsuits all embraced the synthetic fabric’s slightly shiny finish. It was the go-to for anyone wanting an outfit that was stylish yet low-maintenance.
Of course, polyester wasn’t perfect—it wasn’t exactly breathable, which made hot days a little uncomfortable. Still, the convenience outweighed the drawbacks for most people. The fabric became a symbol of the decade’s bold, practical style. By the ’80s, trends shifted, but polyester’s reign in the ’70s was unmatched.
3. The Leisure Suit Craze
The leisure suit was the ’70s answer to relaxed menswear with a splash of style. Usually made of polyester, it came in soft colors or earthy tones and featured a zip or button jacket with flared trousers. Celebrities helped make it famous, turning it into a disco-era must-have. It was casual, but still polished enough for work or dinner out.
Men loved that it was easy to wear and required little effort to look good. Women appreciated the move away from overly stiff, formal suits. The leisure suit became a fixture at parties, clubs, and even weddings. Though it’s now mostly remembered with a wink, it was once the height of cool.
4. Platform Shoes
Platform shoes were all about making a statement while adding height. Thick soles and chunky heels made them surprisingly comfortable compared to stilettos. Both men and women wore them, from glittery disco versions to cork-bottomed casual styles. They were an instant confidence boost, literally and figuratively.
They paired perfectly with bell-bottoms and maxi dresses, creating a dramatic, elongated silhouette. Nightclubs and dance floors became their natural habitat, with every step catching the light. Even kids had their own smaller versions, though they were a bit risky for running around. By the early ’80s, the fad faded, but their daring spirit lived on in later revivals.
5. Peasant Blouses
Peasant blouses brought a soft, romantic feel to the decade’s fashion scene. With flowing sleeves, embroidered details, and lightweight fabrics, they were a breath of fresh air compared to structured tops. The style was inspired by traditional Eastern European garments but made casual for everyday wear. They were often paired with jeans or skirts for a laid-back, bohemian look.
The blouse’s versatility made it a favorite for concerts, festivals, and lazy afternoons. They came in solid colors, florals, and folk-inspired prints. Women loved the comfort as much as the style, embracing it as a go-to for the warmer months. While trends shifted, the peasant blouse left behind a legacy of effortless charm.
6. Earth-Tone Color Palettes
The ’70s adored nature-inspired colors—think avocado green, mustard yellow, burnt orange, and deep brown. These shades dominated fashion, home décor, and even cars, reflecting a love for all things earthy and warm. They worked well together in bold stripes or geometric patterns. Designers embraced them for everything from casual wear to tailored suits.
Earth tones helped set the relaxed, grounded mood of the decade. Even business attire leaned into the palette, with brown and tan suits replacing traditional black and navy. The colors were cozy, comforting, and perfectly in tune with the laid-back vibe of the era. Today they feel like a time capsule of ’70s style.
7. Halter Tops
Halter tops added a flirty, carefree touch to women’s wardrobes. The tied-behind-the-neck style left shoulders bare and gave a breezy look perfect for warm days or nights out. They came in everything from casual cotton to sparkly fabrics meant for the dance floor. High-waisted pants or maxi skirts were their perfect partners.
They became popular at music festivals, beach trips, and discos alike. The cut was bold but still tasteful, making it a favorite for those who wanted to stand out without showing too much. Many were handmade or customized for a unique flair. When the ’80s arrived, the halter top took a back seat, but its summer spirit lingered.
8. Cowl Neck Sweaters
Cowl neck sweaters offered a cozy alternative to turtlenecks, draping loosely around the neckline. The style was flattering and comfortable, often made in soft knits. Popular in solid earthy tones, they were equally at home in the office or at weekend gatherings. They gave a relaxed yet pulled-together look.
Some cowl necks also appeared in dresses, adding elegance to the casual cut. They worked well layered under coats in colder months. Women embraced them for their versatility and understated style. While they never fully disappeared, their ’70s popularity was hard to match.
9. Wrap Dresses
The wrap dress, popularized by Diane von Fürstenberg, became an instant classic in the ’70s. Its tie-at-the-waist design flattered almost every figure, making it a favorite for working women. The style was comfortable, easy to wear, and effortlessly chic. Bold prints were especially in demand.
It was the kind of dress that could transition from the office to dinner without missing a beat. Women loved the combination of practicality and elegance. The wrap dress also symbolized growing freedom in women’s fashion. Even decades later, its original ’70s moment remains iconic.
10. Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses brought drama to everyday wear with their floor-length hemlines. Often in flowing fabrics with bohemian or floral prints, they were ideal for summer. Women appreciated their mix of glamour and comfort, especially for casual gatherings. They could be dressed up or down with ease.
Paired with sandals or wedges, maxi dresses were a staple for outdoor parties and vacations. They also worked for evening events when made in silkier fabrics. The style fit perfectly with the decade’s love of relaxed but eye-catching looks. Though still worn today, their ’70s heyday was something special.
11. Patchwork Clothing
Patchwork designs brought a crafty, DIY spirit into fashion. Jackets, skirts, and bags were made from colorful squares of fabric, often mixing patterns and textures. Each piece felt unique, almost like wearable art. The trend fit right in with the era’s creative energy.
Many patchwork items were handmade, giving them a personal touch. They offered a sustainable way to repurpose fabric scraps before that was a common idea. The look was playful and full of personality. While it eventually faded, it perfectly captured the ’70s anything-goes approach to style.
12. Corduroy Pants
Corduroy pants were a staple of casual dressing in the ’70s. The ribbed fabric was warm, comfortable, and came in every color from earthy browns to bright reds. Both men and women wore them, often with turtlenecks or button-down shirts. They had an easygoing vibe that worked for many occasions.
Fine wale and chunky cord styles were equally popular. They were durable enough for everyday wear but still stylish enough for school or casual Fridays at work. Corduroy was especially popular in cooler months. Its peak popularity may be past, but its ’70s presence was undeniable.
13. Fringe Details
Fringe added movement and flair to jackets, skirts, handbags, and boots. Inspired by both Western wear and the hippie movement, it became a defining accent of the decade. Suede jackets with long fringe were especially iconic. They gave every outfit a sense of personality and fun.
Fringe accessories like purses and belts added extra texture to outfits. The style was perfect for festivals, concerts, and casual days out. It had a free-spirited feel that fit the era perfectly. While fringe pops up now and then, it’s never been as big as it was in the ’70s.
