1. Bell Bottoms
If you were alive in the ’70s, chances are you owned at least one pair of bell bottoms, even if you now swear you never did. They flared out so dramatically that they practically swept the floor, and people wore them with everything from simple tees to sparkly going out tops. Kids wore them, parents wore them, even grandparents sometimes got talked into a pair. They made every walk feel a little more like a runway strut. Denim versions were the most common, but corduroy and polyester ones made regular appearances too.
And if you were lucky enough to have the perfect fit, they felt like magic. You might remember ironing the bottom edges so they fell just right. Some people even customized theirs with patches to make them feel more personal. Bell bottoms made you feel cool with very little effort, which probably explains why everyone embraced them. It was a whole vibe that really only that decade could pull off.
2. Platform Shoes
Platform shoes gave people an instant boost, literally and figuratively. They made you taller, made outfits more fun and made everyday errands feel a little more dramatic. Whether they were wooden, cork or covered in glitter, they were loud in every sense. Even the most simple clothing looked bolder when paired with platforms.
Of course, wearing them required a tiny bit of bravery. You never knew when a sidewalk crack might throw you off balance, but people still strutted around proudly. Some had rainbow soles, others had clear heels with tiny decorations inside. They were a fashion statement that made you feel unstoppable, even if you occasionally wobbled on your way to the car.
3. Wrap Dresses
The wrap dress became a closet staple because it made everyone look effortlessly put together. Its simple tie around the waist created a flattering silhouette without much fuss. Women wore these to work, on dates and even around the house because they were comfortable while still feeling stylish. The patterns were often bold, which made them stand out in any room.
They also had this magical ability to transition from day to night. Swap out shoes, add a necklace, and suddenly it was evening ready. Many people owned several because once you discovered how easy they were, you didn’t want to go back to anything complicated. Wrap dresses became one of those rare items that combined ease and elegance in a way that really defined ’70s fashion.
4. Halter Tops
Halter tops were a warm weather must have that instantly made you feel like summer had arrived. With their open backs and tie around the neck, they brought a sense of freedom that matched the decade’s vibe. They came in every color and pattern you could imagine. Some were crocheted, others silky and shiny depending on the occasion.
Wearing one felt like announcing you were ready for fun. They paired perfectly with flared jeans or flowing skirts. People loved how they showed off shoulders in a way that felt playful instead of formal. Even if you only wore them to concerts or beach days, they were a staple many people kept tucked away in their drawer.
5. Leisure Suits
Leisure suits were everywhere in the ’70s, especially at social gatherings. The matching jacket and pants made getting dressed almost too easy. They usually came in polyester, which meant they were lightweight and had that signature swish when you walked. Men wore them in soft pastels, earthy tones and sometimes patterns that you could spot from a mile away.
Despite their slightly flashy reputation today, they really were practical. You didn’t need to think too hard about coordinating pieces, and they made a person feel instantly stylish. Paired with a wide collar shirt, they created that unmistakable ’70s silhouette. And even though trends have changed, people still smile when they see one because it brings back fun memories.
6. Peasant Blouses
Peasant blouses brought a sense of easygoing charm to everyday outfits. With their flowy sleeves and embroidered details, they felt soft and romantic without trying too hard. Many people loved how comfortable they were compared to stiff button downs. They paired beautifully with jeans, maxi skirts and even shorts.
They were also a go to for festivals and casual gatherings. Their loose fit meant you could move, dance and live your life without feeling restricted. The delicate stitching made each one feel a bit special. It was the kind of top you could throw on and still look like you put in real thought, which is why nearly everyone owned at least one.
7. Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses were the unofficial uniform of anyone who loved a dramatic yet effortless look. Their long, sweeping hemlines made even grocery store trips feel glamorous. Bright patterns and earthy tones were especially popular. Whether you wore them barefoot at a picnic or with platforms for a night out, they just worked.
They were also incredibly comfortable, which didn’t hurt their popularity. People loved how they draped, moved and made them feel instantly stylish. They were forgiving on days you didn’t feel like putting much effort into your outfit. Maxi dresses truly captured the relaxed but expressive spirit of the decade.
8. Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks were one of those staple pieces that made you feel both cozy and chic. They came in thin knits for layering or thicker versions for cold weather. People wore them under vests, sweaters and even dresses. Solid colors like brown, cream and rust were especially popular.
They were practical but never boring because they added instant polish to an outfit. Kids wore them to school, adults wore them to work and pretty much everyone used them as a layering essential. They became one of those items that quietly pulled an outfit together. Even today, many people still keep one in their closet because they never really went out of style.
9. Corduroy Everything
Corduroy wasn’t just for pants in the ’70s, although those were everywhere too. Jackets, skirts and overalls made the fabric a true staple. The textured material gave outfits a warm, cozy feel that matched the decade’s earthy palette. Many people loved the durability, especially parents buying clothes for kids.
The soft ridges also added personality to even the simplest outfits. People wore corduroy to school, to work and to weekend outings. It felt casual but still put together. Corduroy was one of those fabrics that defined the ’70s without anyone realizing it was happening.
10. Denim Jackets
A denim jacket was practically a requirement in the ’70s. It went with every outfit, from dresses to jeans. Many people personalized theirs with patches or pins to show off hobbies, bands or causes. The more worn in it got, the better it looked.
It was the perfect extra layer for cool mornings or summer nights. Kids and adults both relied on theirs for everyday wear. They were durable, comfortable and wonderfully timeless. A denim jacket was the kind of piece you didn’t think twice about grabbing on your way out the door.
11. Tie Dye Shirts
Tie dye shirts were the clothing equivalent of a good mood. Each one was colorful and completely unique. People wore them to concerts, backyard parties and school events. They captured the spirit of creativity that was everywhere in the decade.
Creating your own tie dye shirt also became a fun activity. Kids and adults loved experimenting with patterns and color combinations. Wearing one felt like expressing a little piece of your personality. Even today, tie dye still holds onto that carefree association.
12. Track Suits
Track suits were the go to choice for comfort without sacrificing style. They often came in bold colors with matching stripes down the sides. People wore them for jogging, casual errands or just hanging out at home. Their coordinated look made them feel instantly put together.
They were also incredibly practical. The soft fabric made them ideal for everyday wear. Many families owned multiple sets because they were dependable and easy to wash. Track suits were the kind of staple that sneaked into everyone’s wardrobe and never quite left.
