The 1970s were a time of experimentation and self-expression, and the decade’s fads were as bold and unforgettable as its music and fashion. Some of these trends seemed like the epitome of cool back then, but looking back now, they might elicit a chuckle—or a cringe. From questionable fashion choices to bizarre hobbies, here are 13 wildly popular ’70s fads that haven’t aged as gracefully as we might have hoped.
1. Bell-Bottom Pants
Bell-bottom pants were the ultimate fashion statement in the ’70s. Whether made of denim or brightly colored polyester, these flared-bottom pants could be seen everywhere—from discos to high school hallways. The wider the flare, the better, and pairing them with platform shoes took the look to new heights. For men and women alike, bell-bottoms were an essential wardrobe staple.
But looking back, it’s hard not to cringe at the exaggerated silhouette. The flares often dragged on the ground, collecting dirt and fraying at the hem. And let’s not even get started on trying to run in them! While the look occasionally resurfaces in fashion cycles, it’s safe to say that bell-bottoms will forever be synonymous with the over-the-top style of the ’70s.
2. Pet Rocks
In 1975, the Pet Rock became an unlikely phenomenon. For just $3.95, you could buy a smooth stone “pet” that came in a cardboard box with air holes and an instruction manual. The concept was absurd, but that’s precisely what made it so popular. People embraced the humor of owning a low-maintenance pet that required no feeding, cleaning, or attention.
Today, the Pet Rock feels like the ultimate symbol of consumerism gone wild. It’s hard to believe millions of people bought into the joke, but at the time, it was a cultural touchstone. While we can appreciate the humor, it’s definitely one of those trends that makes you shake your head in disbelief.
3. Disco Suits
The disco craze of the ’70s wasn’t complete without a shiny, polyester suit. Made famous by John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever, these outfits were designed to catch the light on the dance floor, with wide lapels, bold colors, and enough sheen to rival a mirror ball. Pair it with a ruffled shirt, and you were the life of the party.
But today, disco suits feel more like costumes than fashion. The synthetic fabrics didn’t breathe, the fit was often awkward, and the overall look screamed “trying too hard.” While they remain a fun nod to the disco era, it’s safe to say no one is rushing to bring back this flashy trend for everyday wear.
4. Streaking
Streaking, the act of running naked through public spaces, was a bizarre trend that reached its peak in the mid-’70s. It seemed like no college campus or major event was safe from streakers, who would shed their clothes and dash through crowds, often to cheers and laughter. It was even immortalized in the 1974 hit song “The Streak” by Ray Stevens.
While it might have been seen as harmless fun at the time, streaking feels cringe-worthy now. The idea of stripping down and running through a football game or lecture hall seems less like a daring prank and more like a recipe for embarrassment—or a misdemeanor charge. What once felt rebellious now just feels awkward.
5. Macramé Everything
Macramé was the crafting craze of the ’70s, and it was everywhere—plant hangers, wall hangings, even clothing. People loved the DIY aesthetic, spending hours knotting cords into intricate patterns to decorate their homes or create bohemian accessories. A macramé plant hanger with a dangling spider plant became the ultimate symbol of earthy, laid-back style.
While macramé has seen a minor resurgence in recent years, the ’70s obsession went overboard. Entire rooms decked out in knotted decor now feel more suffocating than stylish. The sheer amount of macramé that took over homes and wardrobes alike is enough to make anyone cringe at the memory.
6. Roller Disco
Combining the two biggest trends of the ’70s—roller skating and disco—roller disco was the epitome of groovy fun. Skaters in flashy outfits glided around rinks to the pulsing beats of disco hits, showing off their best spins, jumps, and coordinated moves. It was a social event, an athletic challenge, and a chance to shine under the spinning lights of the disco ball.
But today, the over-the-top fashion, the dramatic moves, and the sheer intensity of roller disco feel more like a parody than a pastime. While roller rinks and skating remain popular in some circles, the combination of disco music and skating is firmly rooted in the ’70s, and revisiting it often elicits a mix of laughter and secondhand embarrassment.
7. Waterbeds
The waterbed was the height of ’70s bedroom chic. People loved the idea of sleeping on a gently undulating surface, and the beds were marketed as luxurious, modern, and even good for your back. Owning a waterbed instantly made you feel like you were living in the future—or at least in a disco.
In reality, waterbeds were impractical and prone to leaks. Filling or draining them was a hassle, and any puncture meant a soaked mattress and a ruined night’s sleep. While they may have felt groovy at the time, waterbeds are now a cautionary tale about valuing form over function.
8. Platform Shoes
Platform shoes were everywhere in the ’70s, and they weren’t just for women—men got in on the trend, too. These towering shoes added inches of height and paired perfectly with bell-bottoms and disco suits. The higher the platform, the cooler the shoes, or so it seemed.
But platform shoes were notoriously difficult to walk in, and falls were common. Looking back, they feel more like safety hazards than fashion statements. While they remain an iconic part of ’70s style, wearing them today feels more like a risky stunt than a fashion-forward choice.
9. Earth Shoes
Earth Shoes, with their negative-heel design, were marketed as being better for posture and overall health. Their thick soles and sloped heels made them look distinct—some might say odd—but they gained a devoted following among those who valued comfort over style.
However, Earth Shoes weren’t for everyone. Their unconventional shape was divisive, and their chunky aesthetic didn’t exactly scream elegance. Today, they’re remembered more for their quirky appearance than their supposed health benefits, making them a prime example of a fad that hasn’t aged well.
10. Pong and Early Video Games
When Pong debuted in the early ’70s, it was a revelation. The simple tennis-inspired game captivated players and marked the dawn of video gaming as we know it. Soon, arcade cabinets and home consoles brought similar pixelated experiences to the masses.
While Pong was groundbreaking, its simplistic gameplay feels painfully outdated now. Modern gamers might cringe at the thought of spending hours batting a square “ball” back and forth, but back then, it was nothing short of revolutionary. It’s a nostalgic reminder of how far gaming has come—and how much patience we used to have.
11. Feathered Hair
Feathered hair, popularized by Farrah Fawcett, was the hairstyle of the decade. Achieving those perfectly flipped layers required hours with a blow dryer and an arsenal of hairspray. Men and women alike embraced the look, making it a ubiquitous part of ’70s culture.
Today, the highly stylized, stiff look feels more like a relic of its time. While it was undeniably glamorous, feathered hair required constant maintenance and looked dated as soon as the ’80s rolled around. It’s a reminder of just how much effort we used to put into looking effortlessly cool.
12. CB Radios
CB (Citizens Band) radios were the original social network of the ’70s, allowing people—especially truckers—to chat and share traffic updates. The lingo, like “10-4” and “Breaker, breaker,” became a part of pop culture, and everyone wanted a handle (CB nickname) of their own.
While CB radios were undeniably useful, the trend eventually faded as newer technology took over. Looking back, the obsession with chatting on CB channels feels a little overblown, but it was a fun, quirky way to connect before the internet came along.
13. Feathered Roach Clips
What started as a practical tool for holding, well, certain substances, quickly became a mainstream fashion accessory in the ’70s. Feathered roach clips were often clipped into hair, onto jackets, or attached to necklaces, making them a colorful, bohemian adornment. They were sold at concerts, fairs, and head shops, and their flashy, free-spirited vibe made them a must-have for many young people.
The problem? Most parents didn’t realize these pretty feathered clips had an entirely different intended use. Today, the idea of walking around with one of these in your hair seems cringey, especially knowing their true purpose. Still, they were emblematic of the carefree, anything-goes attitude of the ’70s, even if they make us laugh (and cringe) now.
The ’70s were all about bold choices and living in the moment, and these fads reflect that adventurous spirit. While we might cringe at some of these trends today, they’re an essential part of what made the decade so unforgettable—and uniquely groovy.
