How to Rock 70s Outfits: Bell Bottoms, Disco & More

The seventies was a decade of radical self-expression and so was the fashion. No 70s outfits were about anything but making a statement: whether it was the free-and-easy style of the hippie movement or the glittering glamour of the disco-era. These looks are now back in a major way, with both influences on the runways and on the street style. This style guide will also present you with a tour of the most memorable trends of the decade, demonstrating how to achieve the carefree-cool of 70s fashion. Be prepared to wear bell bottoms, platform shoes and psychedelic prints.

The Silhouettes of the Decade.

The 70s was a rejection of the 60s more structured appearance, adopting a looser and flowing look. Both male and female high-waisted pants with flared legs became the fashion. These bell bottoms produced a slimline appearance that characterized the appearance of the era.

Silhouettes were usually tighter on top. Popular items included t-shirts that were fitting, peasant blouses and thin-fitting turtlenecks. This tight top/loose bottom juxtaposition is synonymous with typical 70s clothing, which forms a well-balanced and aesthetically pleasing silhouette that is simultaneously carefree and put-together.

Bell Bottoms and Flares: 70s Staple.

Any conversation about 70s clothes would be incomplete without showing respect to bell bottoms and flared pants. This iconic fashion began as a slight bootcut and has blasted into dramatic full floor sweeps. They were a symbol of rebelliousness and liberty, and were worn by both the rock musicians and ordinary citizens.

These were very versatile pants. They might wear a loose t-shirt on a day out or have a satiny blouse and platform shoes on a night out. Denim was the most typical, however they were also available in corduroy, polyester and colorful patterns.

Boho Blouse and Country Life.

The influence of hippie movement of the late 60s penetrated far into the 70s and made a bohemian style popular. This trend was centered on the peasant blouse. It had an aura of unrestricted, carefree style, with its loose-fitting design, billowy sleeves, and delicate embroidery.

These blouses are usually produced using natural materials such as cotton and cheesecloth, which makes them comfortable and breathable. They were often trimmed with floral designs, paisley prints and decorative stitching about the cuffs and neckline. The peasant blouse worn in combination with flared jeans or a maxi skirt made a very stylish impression.

Disco Fever: Nightlife and Flashiness on the Dance Floors.

Even as the decade went on a new more glamorous style was born out of the discos of New York City. Disco fashion meant shine, movement, and impressing people under the glow of the disco lights. It was totally the antithesis of earthy, bohemian styles of the time.

Key Disco Fashion Elements

Sequins and Lurex: Materials that reflected the light and sparkled were necessary. Sequins were put on halter tops, jumpsuits and mini dresses.
Halter Necks: This was a top-rated disco top and dress featuring the shoulders and backs.
Wide-Leg Jumpsuits: This jumpsuit grew to be stylish and strong as an alternative to the dress, commonly fashioned in slippery and shiny fabrics.

Platform Shoes: Taking New Strides.

The 1970s shoes were undoubtedly platform. Men and women wore these towering shoes which would add inches and so much attitude to the outfits. Platforms were all over, starting with simple clogs, all the way up to sparkly disco heels.

It was not only a trend of glamour, but was also practical. The extra height served to make the hems of extra-long bell bottoms not drag on the ground. There were wooden and cork materials during the day, and glittery, patent materials during the nights when one dances at the disco.

The Rise of Denim in 70s Outfits

In the 70s denim was not only work wear but also a fashion statement. The trendy and daring style was the denim-on-denim, also called the Canadian tuxedo. Important elements of the everyday wardrobe were flared jeans, denim jackets, vests, and even denim shirts.

Individuals customized their jeans to reflect their personality. Patches, embroidery and studs were applied to jackets and jeans. This customization transformed an ordinary piece of clothing into a wearable art object, and the emphasis on personal liberty and creativity characteristic of the decade.

Iconic Prints and Patterns

The 70s was a kindergarten of daring prints and designs. Everything (including blouses or maxi dresses) was covered with geometric shapes, psychedelic swirls, and colorful floral designs. These bold designs were an expression of the vibrant and positive mood of the era.

Earthy colors such as avocado green, mustard yellow, and burnt orange were very popular and in many cases combined in a single print. Another signature pattern was Paisley, with borrowed Eastern influences and adopted by the bohemian crowd. These prints rendered the 70s outfits instantly recognizable and exciting to the eye.

Essential 70s Accessories

There was no 70s outfit that was complete without the appropriate accessories. These details were important to create a realistic appearance. They brought in colour, flair and glued the whole ensemble together.

The most well-liked accessories were:

Floppy Hats: Wide-brimmed felt or straw hats led to a certain bohemian flair.
Statement Belts: Dress and tunic waistlines were cinched with wide leather belts and big buckles.
Layered Jewelry: Think huge necklaces, bead bracelets and oversized hoop earrings.
Freaky Sunglasses: Huge, usually round or square-shaped sunglasses became an essential accessory to make a celebrity splash.

Conclusion

The 1970s fashion was a multicolored ensemble of different and memorable styles. The relaxed fashion of bohemian peasant blouses and flared denim jeans to the disco glamour of jumpsuits, the decade had everything. These trends inspire designers and fashion followers to this day because of their focus on self-expression, comfort, and audacious silhouettes. The 70s were characterized by the free spirit spirit, which you can incorporate into your Uber-chic wardrobe by adding bell bottoms, platform shoes, and vibrant prints.

The memory of the 70s wearables is a signal that all fashion is fun and a way to express your own personality. We encourage you to read more of our fashion history-related articles and follow our newsletter to be more fashion-inspired. What is your favorite trend of the 70s? Put your ideas in the comment box below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most stereotypical 70s clothes?

High-waisted, bell-bottom jeans and peasant blouses, disco sparkly-sequined jumpsuits, and floral or paisley prints on flowy maxi dresses are the most iconic outfits of the 70s.

What were fashionable shoes in the 70s?

The style of shoe that was in was platform shoes. This comprised of chunky platform shoe, wooden sole clogs, and strappy platform heels worn by both men and women.

What am I supposed to wear 70s style now?

Add some staple fashion items such as flared jeans, a print blouse, or a corduroy jacket to your outfit. You can accessorize with bulky sun glasses, a broad belt or platform shoes to get the feel.

Also Read: