1. Platform Shoes
Platform shoes were pretty much impossible to ignore in the ’70s, mostly because they added several inches to everyone’s height and made walking through the mall feel like a balancing act. You’d see them in every store window, often covered in glitter, vinyl, or bright colors that practically screamed for attention. Teens loved how they instantly transformed even the simplest outfit into something straight off a disco dance floor. They were the kind of shoes that made you feel cooler the second you slipped them on.
Of course, they weren’t exactly the most practical thing to wear while browsing record shops or grabbing a pretzel from the food court, but that didn’t stop anyone. People wore them with jeans, skirts, jumpsuits, and pretty much anything else that could pair with a dramatic heel. They definitely made a statement wherever they went. And for a lot of shoppers, the slight danger of wobbling wasn’t a flaw, it was part of the fun.
2. Bell-Bottom Jeans
Bell-bottoms were the unofficial uniform of the ’70s, and the mall was basically one giant parade of flared denim. The silhouette was everywhere, from high-end department stores to teen chains with loud music and hip mannequins. They were flattering, fun, and perfect for showing off a favorite pair of platform shoes. Even if the flare got caught on escalators sometimes, people kept wearing them with pride.
There was something about the shape that felt effortless and free, like you could wander the mall for hours and still look cool doing it. Most teens added patches or embroidery to personalize them, giving each pair its own personality. Whether you bought yours pre-faded or wore them until they softened just right, bell-bottoms were a mall staple. And today, when they make a comeback, fans of the ’70s can’t help but smile.
3. Peasant Blouses
Peasant blouses floated through the mall in soft cotton and gauzy fabrics, and they always looked a little dreamy. With their flowing sleeves and embroidery, they fit right into the easygoing spirit of the decade. You could find them in earthy colors or bright patterns that felt perfect for the era’s bohemian vibe. They were comfortable, stylish, and always popped up near racks of suede purses and natural stone jewelry.
They also paired effortlessly with the decade’s favorite jeans and skirts, which made them a go-to choice for everyday mall walking. Whether someone wanted a romantic look or something casual, a peasant blouse could do both. It became one of those pieces that even younger siblings could borrow and somehow make look good. It wasn’t unusual for people to have more than one because each one felt a little different.
4. Jumpsuits
Jumpsuits were the kind of outfit that made getting dressed feel like slipping into a costume, but in the best way possible. They came in every color and fabric imaginable, from sleek polyester to funky prints that turned heads in the food court. The one-piece look was fresh, bold, and surprisingly comfortable when it fit just right. Some had zip fronts, while others had belts that cinched the waist in a dramatic ’70s silhouette.
What made jumpsuits so popular was how easy they made fashion feel, since you didn’t have to match a top and bottom. You could wear one to the mall, to a party, or even just lounging around the house. People loved how confident they felt in them, moving with the swagger of a disco star. And even though you had to plan your bathroom breaks carefully, fans swear the style was worth it.
5. Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses swept through the mall with all the drama of a runway moment but with the comfort of loungewear. These long, flowy dresses came in everything from bold florals to mellow earth tones, making it easy to find one that matched the vibe of the day. They were ideal for strolling from store to store, especially if you wanted to stay stylish without sacrificing comfort. The length made them instantly elegant but still relaxed.
Their versatility kept them popular all decade long because they worked with sandals, boots, or even those towering platform shoes everyone loved. Teens grabbed them for dates or movie nights, and moms appreciated how easy they were to style. The fabric swished dramatically when walking through the mall’s tiled floors, adding a little flair to otherwise ordinary errands. And they became one of the decade’s most photographed looks for good reason.
6. Track Suits
Track suits were the ultimate casual statement in the ’70s, especially when they came in bright colors with contrasting stripes. They turned up in athletic stores and fashion boutiques alike, proving they weren’t just for gym class. With their zip-up jackets and matching pants, they offered both comfort and a sense of being “put together.” They also made mall walking a breeze because nothing restricted movement.
They were also popular because you could mix and match the pieces with other outfits, creating endless combinations. Teens especially loved how sporty yet stylish they looked, even if they never set foot in an actual track. The suits worked for school days, hangouts, and weekend shopping trips. And they’re another trend that’s fully resurfaced today.
7. Corduroy Everything
Corduroy took over the mall like it was competing with denim for attention, and in many stores it won. You could find corduroy pants, jackets, skirts, and even hats in warm colors like rust, mustard, and deep brown. The texture added a cozy, slightly retro feel that shoppers couldn’t get enough of. It was soft, sturdy, and perfect for the decade’s earthy palette.
When paired with a simple tee or a patterned button-down, corduroy instantly made an outfit feel more intentional. Many teens owned multiple pieces because they worked so well with almost everything in their closet. And hearing that signature swishy sound while walking through the mall became part of the charm. Corduroy was one of those trends that defined the ’70s without even trying too hard.
8. Wrap Dresses
Wrap dresses were the kind of trend that felt grown-up but still approachable, which made them popular with both teens and adults. They usually came in silky fabrics and fun prints, adding a little movement with every step. The flattering silhouette made them a favorite for trying on in mall dressing rooms, where many people had their first “I feel amazing in this” moment. They were sleek but comfortable, a combination everyone could appreciate.
You could dress them up for a night out or keep them simple for a casual day of shopping. Their self-tie style gave them a customizable fit, which made them feel more personal than button-ups or zippers. Even today, fashion lovers credit the ’70s with turning the wrap dress into a staple. And it’s no surprise that modern versions still echo that original, iconic design.
9. Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks were everywhere in the ’70s mall scene, from plain ribbed styles to bright, funky patterns. They added instant warmth and style to almost any outfit, working with jeans, jumpers, and corduroy pieces. Kids wore them, teens wore them, and adults wore them too, which made them one of the most universal trends of the decade. They were comfortable and slim-fitting, which made them easy to layer.
They also popped up in every color under the sun, making it easy to match the mood of the day. Their versatility meant people could throw one on for school, work, or a mall hangout without overthinking it. They looked especially sharp under blazers or pinafores, giving a polished ’70s look. And many people still have a soft spot for them today.
10. Tie-Dye Shirts
Tie-dye shirts brought a burst of cheerful color to the mall, especially for teens who wanted something playful and unique. Each shirt felt like a little piece of art, splashed with spirals and swirls that looked different from anything mass-produced. They lined the racks of trendy boutiques and were often sold near incense burners and beaded necklaces. Tie-dye had a carefree style that really represented the era.
They were the go-to top for casual days, music lovers, and anyone who embraced the laid-back vibe of the decade. You could pair them with jeans, shorts, or even those big flared pants everyone loved. They also sparked plenty of DIY projects at home, which turned buying them into wearing them into a mini cultural moment. Tie-dye still pops up today, proving it never really disappeared.
11. Suede Fringe Jackets
Suede fringe jackets added a little drama to any outfit, especially when the fringe swung with every step. They were inspired by Western and bohemian trends that swept through ’70s fashion and made their way straight into the mall. Teens loved how bold they looked, especially paired with jeans or long skirts. The jackets felt rugged and stylish at the same time.
They weren’t the easiest things to maintain, but the look was so cool that people didn’t mind taking extra care. Wearing one made even a quick stop for an Orange Julius feel like an event. They added movement, texture, and personality that was unmistakably ’70s. And while they may not be as common today, vintage lovers still hunt for them.
12. Graphic Tees
Graphic tees took over mall shelves with a mix of slogans, band names, logos, and cartoon characters. They were fun, easy, and gave everyone a way to express themselves without saying a word. Teens especially loved hunting for the perfect one, whether it advertised a favorite soda, a rock band, or a cheeky joke. They gave every outfit a little extra personality.
They paired perfectly with denim jackets, corduroy pants, or a simple pair of shorts for summer mall trips. The shirts were comfortable and inexpensive, making them accessible to just about everyone. Even adults grabbed a few because they were easy to throw on for weekend errands. Graphic tees still thrive today, proving that some trends never really go out of style.
