7 Most Popular 70s Fashion Accessories You Totally Need to See
Step into the vibrant world of ’70s fashion, where bold choices and unique accessories made a lasting impact.
The fashion trends from this era were unmistakable, blending styles from the 1960s and paving the way for the 1980s.
You can’t ignore the creativity and freedom that defined the ’70s fashion scene.
What makes ’70s fashion accessories so memorable? Whether you’re looking back at iconic moments in fashion history or drawing inspiration for your own style, the accessories of the ’70s continue to influence the trends we see today.
1) Bell-bottom Pants
Bell-bottom pants were a huge hit in the 1970s.
You couldn’t walk down the street without seeing someone rocking a pair.
These pants are tight around the thighs and flare out from the knees, creating a distinctive bell shape.
People loved bell-bottoms for their unique look.
They were available in many different fabrics like denim, corduroy, satin, and polyester.
This variety made them a favorite for many fashion-forward people.
Not only did regular folks enjoy them, but celebrities also made them popular.
Shows like “The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour” featured stars wearing these trendy pants.
This added to their widespread appeal.
Bell-bottoms were more than just pants; they symbolized the spirit of the era.
They represented freedom, self-expression, and a break from traditional fashion.
Whether you were a disco dancer or a member of a counterculture movement, these pants fit right in.
Today, bell-bottoms often make a comeback in fashion.
Designers and brands bring them back, reminding us of their lasting impact on style.
If you’re looking to add a touch of 70s flair to your wardrobe, bell-bottoms are the way to go.
2) Platform Shoes
Platform shoes were a defining fashion trend in the 1970s.
You couldn’t miss them—you’d see people wearing them at parties, discos, and even on the streets.
These shoes featured thick soles, often made from wood or cork.
They came in a variety of styles, including sandals, boots, and more.
Both men and women embraced platform shoes.
For women, platform shoes were often designed with vibrant colors and patterns.
Picture bright orange, yellow, or a mix of contrasting hues.
These shoes made a bold statement and added height with their chunky soles.
Men also wore platforms, though usually with a bit more modesty.
The shoes might have been in earthy tones but still had that signature thick sole.
In urban areas, platform shoes even became part of cultural style statements.
If you’re looking to capture that 70s vibe, don’t forget to add a pair of platforms to your wardrobe.
It’s an iconic piece that screams retro chic.
3) Polyester Suits
Polyester suits were a huge hit in the 1970s.
They were popular because they were comfortable and easy to care for.
These suits had a relaxed fit, with wide lapels and flared pants.
You could find them in various bold patterns like plaids, houndstooth, and even solid colors.
They were perfect for those casual social gatherings where you wanted to look stylish without trying too hard.
These suits became a symbol of ’70s fashion.
You can almost picture them at flashy discos, worn with confidence and flair.
Polyester suits brought a new level of cool to men’s wardrobes during the decade.
If you wanted to capture the laid-back yet stylish vibe of the ’70s, a polyester suit was a must-have.
4) Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses became super popular in the late 1960s and continued to be a fashion staple throughout the 1970s.
These long, flowing dresses were perfect for both casual and formal looks.
They often featured vibrant colors and bold patterns, making them stand out in any crowd.
You could find maxi dresses in different styles, like boho-chic or more structured, elegant designs.
They often had unique details like ruffles, lace, or floral prints.
Patterns ranged from abstract and psychedelic to more classic paisleys and polka dots.
The maxi dress was not just about looks.
It was also about comfort.
The loose fit allowed for easy movement, which made them a favorite for outdoor events like music festivals and garden parties.
Plus, they were versatile enough to be paired with different accessories.
During the 1970s, maxi dresses came in various fabrics, from cotton for everyday wear to silky materials for evening events.
The long length often went down to the ankles, creating a flowing, dramatic silhouette.
Whether you were a fan of the hippie style or leaning more towards disco-inspired fashion, there was a maxi dress for you.
The adaptability and comfort of maxi dresses made them a must-have in any 70s wardrobe.
5) Tie-Dye Shirts
Tie-dye shirts were a staple of 70s fashion.
With swirls of bright colors, these shirts became popular among the hippie culture.
You’d often see people wearing them at music festivals and protests, making bold fashion statements.
The process of making tie-dye shirts was fun and creative.
You’d bundle up a plain white shirt, tie it up with rubber bands, and dunk it in different colors of dye.
Each shirt turned out unique, with different patterns and color combinations.
Celebrities and rock stars also helped bring tie-dye shirts into the spotlight.
Icons like Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix often wore them, adding to their appeal.
Even today, tie-dye has its moments of comeback.
It’s a retro look that reminds us of that vibrant decade.
You might even find modern designers incorporating tie-dye into their collections, proving its lasting impact on fashion.
6) Wide Collars
Wide collars were super popular in the 70s.
You couldn’t go anywhere without seeing someone rocking one of these bold fashion statements.
They made you look sharp and groovy, adding a touch of flair to your outfit.
These collars were often seen on shirts and blouses.
They made a regular shirt stand out and gave it a trendy twist.
You might have even found them paired with flared pants or skirts for that complete 70s look.
The wide collar trend wasn’t limited to one type of fabric or pattern.
You saw them on floral prints, solid colors, and even striped patterns.
And they weren’t just for special occasions; people wore them casually too, like when hanging out with friends or going to a party.
If you wanted to capture the true essence of 70s fashion, wearing a shirt with a wide collar was a great way to do it.
They were simple yet stylish, making you feel like you were part of something cool and exciting.
7) Leather Fringe Jackets
Leather fringe jackets were a standout accessory in the 70s.
These jackets became popular during the decade, reflecting a mix of Western and bohemian styles.
They often featured long strips of leather hanging from the sleeves and the back, giving a cool, laid-back vibe.
You might remember seeing them in old pictures of rock stars and hippies.
They were often paired with bell-bottoms and graphic tees, creating an effortlessly stylish look.
The fringe added a sense of movement and uniqueness to the outfit, making it perfect for concerts and casual outings.
Designers of the time picked up on this trend and incorporated it into their collections.
If you wanted to make a fashion statement, a leather fringe jacket was the way to go.
These jackets are still remembered fondly and occasionally make a comeback in modern fashion.
Historical Context of 70s Fashion
The fashion of the 1970s was deeply influenced by the cultural shifts and prominent designers of the era.
You’ll see how cultural movements and key fashion figures helped shape this iconic decade.
Cultural Movements
In the 1970s, many cultural movements left a mark on fashion.
The counterculture of the late 1960s continued to influence styles.
The hippie movement promoted natural materials, earthy colors, and a free-spirited look.
Disco culture also made a huge impact.
People flocked to clubs in flashy outfits with sequins, glitter, and shiny fabrics.
This era’s dance scene pushed bold, eye-catching styles into the mainstream.
Women’s liberation was another driving force.
As more women entered the workforce, fashion adapted to offer both professional and casual wear.
Pantsuits became more common, symbolizing the blend of fashion and practicality.
Influential Designers
Several designers emerged in the 70s who left lasting legacies.
Diane von Fürstenberg became famous for her wrap dress.
This simple yet elegant design offered both comfort and style, perfect for the modern woman of the era.
Vivienne Westwood introduced punk fashion by the mid-70s, with her edgy and rebellious designs.
Her use of safety pins, tartan fabrics, and graphic tees challenged conventional fashion norms.
Halston, another key designer, was known for his minimalist yet glamorous style.
His designs often featured sleek lines and luxurious fabrics, popularized by celebrities like Liza Minnelli and Bianca Jagger.
These designers didn’t just create clothes—they created statements that defined a generation.
Impact of 70s Fashion on Today’s Trends
The fashion of the 1970s has had a significant influence on current styles.
Key elements from that era, such as bohemian looks and disco vibes, have found their way into modern wardrobes.
Retro Revival
Many 70s fashion accessories are now making a comeback. Platform sandals are again popular, reminiscent of the sky-high shoes seen in discos.
These shoes add height and a bold statement to any outfit.
Headscarves were a staple back then, famously worn by Jackie O. You see them styled similarly today, especially on social media, creating a chic, vintage-inspired look.
Pearls were worn back then in long strings, often paired with silky outfits.
This classic accessory remains timeless, adding a touch of elegance to many contemporary styles.
Modern Interpretations
Modern fashion takes 70s inspirations and updates them.
For instance, flared jeans, a must-have back then, are now back in stores.
These jeans offer comfort and a retro vibe with modern fits and fabrics.
Bohemian styles, like flowing dresses and bell-bottoms, have also evolved.
Today’s boho looks are often paired with contemporary accessories to create a blend of past and present.
Jumpsuits, iconic in the disco era, are still trendy.
Modern jumpsuits come in various styles, from casual to formal, inspired by their 70s predecessors but using new patterns and materials.
These key elements from the 70s continue to influence what we wear, making the old feel new again.