The ’60s and ’70s were bold decades, not just in music and culture but in fashion too. Back then, the groovier, the better, with wild patterns, bright colors, and some truly daring silhouettes ruling the scene. At the time, these clothes were the height of cool, but looking back now? Some of them are downright hilarious. Let’s dive into 13 clothing items that were once the peak of style but now make us chuckle whenever we spot them in old photos.
1. Bell-Bottoms
Bell-bottoms were everywhere in the ’60s and ’70s, flaring out so wide you could practically hide a small pet inside each pant leg. Whether you were rocking denim or psychedelic prints, the bigger the flare, the cooler you were. They were the go-to pants for both men and women, strutting their stuff at discos or just hanging out at the park. But today? Those exaggerated flares look more like they belong on a costume party dance floor than everyday wear.
2. Leisure Suits
Ah, the leisure suit—polyester perfection in all its glory. These two-piece, brightly colored suits, often paired with wide-collared shirts, were the epitome of ’70s casual cool. The fact that they were intended to be “leisurely” yet looked stiff and synthetic just adds to the humor now. Today, they scream more “used car salesman” than “style icon,” but back then, everyone from businessmen to disco dancers was rocking them.
3. Tie-Dye Everything
Tie-dye wasn’t just a trend; it was a movement. From t-shirts to dresses to headbands, the swirl of neon colors was a symbol of the counterculture and free-spirited vibes of the ’60s. But in hindsight, all those clashing colors can feel a bit like an accidental laundry disaster. While tie-dye has made a bit of a comeback, the original over-the-top versions still give off major “summer camp craft project” energy.
4. Platform Shoes
In the ’70s, the motto seemed to be, “The higher, the better,” when it came to footwear. Platform shoes added inches—sometimes dangerous inches—underneath both men’s and women’s feet, often in wild colors or with outrageous designs. While they were the ultimate disco accessory, today they look more like a balancing act waiting to go wrong. It’s hard not to laugh imagining people trying to navigate stairs in those towering soles.
5. Fringe Vests
If you were channeling your inner cowboy—or just wanted to feel the wind in your tassels—a fringe vest was the way to go. Worn over turtlenecks, t-shirts, or bare chests, these suede or leather vests added some “Wild West” flair to any outfit. But now, they look less like fashion statements and more like you accidentally wandered out of a costume party. Still, they bring back memories of the freewheeling spirit of the time.
6. Peasant Blouses
Flowy, billowy peasant blouses were a staple of ’70s boho fashion, with embroidered details and elastic necklines that could be worn off the shoulder. They were breezy and romantic at the time, perfect for swaying at a folk concert. But today, they can look a bit like you’re auditioning for a Renaissance fair or just borrowed something from your great-aunt’s wardrobe. That said, they do look pretty comfy, even if they’re a little dated.
7. Corduroy Everything
Corduroy pants, jackets, skirts—you name it, it was probably made in corduroy in the ’70s. The thick, ridged fabric was beloved for its durability, but it also had the unique ability to make a swishing sound when you walked. What once seemed sturdy and fashionable now feels a bit heavy and stiff, not to mention comically loud. Still, nothing says “retro” quite like a good pair of brown corduroys.
8. Psychedelic Prints
The louder, the better seemed to be the rule when it came to prints in the ’60s and ’70s. Shirts, dresses, and pants were covered in swirling, trippy patterns in eye-popping colors that could practically hypnotize you if you stared too long. Back then, these prints were bold and rebellious, but now they look like your grandma’s old wallpaper exploded all over your clothes. You’ve got to respect the confidence it took to pull off those outfits, though.
9. Ascots and Neck Scarves
Forget ties—ascots and silky neck scarves were the sophisticated accessory of choice in the ’60s and early ’70s. Paired with a sharp blazer or an open-collared shirt, they were the epitome of suave, European-inspired fashion. But nowadays, they feel more like something a cartoon villain would wear or an accessory for a fancy poodle. Still, they added a touch of flair that’s hard to deny.
10. Hot Pants
These super-short shorts made waves in the early ’70s, leaving little to the imagination. Worn with knee-high boots or bright tights, hot pants were bold, daring, and a little scandalous. While they were all the rage back then, today they feel more like something you’d expect to see at a costume party or a throwback event. But you’ve got to give props to anyone brave enough to rock them in public.
11. Safari Suits
Safari suits brought the adventurous spirit of the great outdoors straight to the office. With multiple pockets, belted waists, and often made of lightweight fabrics, they were surprisingly formal for something inspired by jungle expeditions. Back then, they were chic and sophisticated, but today, they feel more like you’re ready to wrestle a lion at lunchtime. Still, there’s something charming about their quirky, adventurous vibe.
12. Maxi Dresses and Skirts
Maxi dresses and skirts swept the floor with their long, flowing fabrics and bold patterns. They were the epitome of bohemian chic, perfect for everything from music festivals to beach outings. But looking back, some of those oversized prints and shapeless designs feel more like you’re wearing a fancy bedsheet. Despite the laughs, there’s no denying they had a certain carefree elegance.
13. Polyester Everything
Polyester was the fabric of the ’70s, found in everything from shirts to pants to full suits. It was cheap, durable, and came in every color under the sun—but boy, did it not breathe. At the time, it seemed like a futuristic wonder material, but today, it’s more likely to make us sweat just looking at it. Still, those shiny, synthetic outfits were part of what made ’70s fashion so unforgettable.
While we might chuckle at these wild fashion choices today, they were all part of what made the ’60s and ’70s such vibrant, unforgettable decades. These styles captured the spirit of the times—bold, fearless, and unapologetically unique. And hey, who knows? In fashion, what’s hilarious today might just be cool again tomorrow.
