The ‘70s were a powerhouse decade for fashion and beauty. From bold patterns to wide-leg pants and hippy-style vibes, this era championed individuality and fearless self-expression. Here are some iconic fashion and beauty trends from the ‘70s that we’d love to see back in the spotlight.
1. Bell-Bottom Jeans
Bell-bottom jeans are the ultimate ‘70s style staple, instantly giving any outfit a cool, retro vibe. With their signature flare from the knee down, these jeans flatter every body type by balancing out proportions. Paired with a simple tee, a boho blouse, or a sleek jacket, bell bottoms add a unique twist to modern-day denim that can easily make any look stand out. It’s time to bring back this iconic silhouette!
2. Platform Shoes
Platform shoes weren’t just for walking but for making a statement. These chunky, elevated soles add height and attitude to any outfit and are surprisingly comfortable. Platforms bring a retro edge without the discomfort of stilettos. Whether in the form of boots, heels, or sandals, platform shoes add personality to your look and deserve a comeback for anyone who wants to stand a little taller in style.
3. Suede Jackets and Skirts
The ‘70s embraced suede in every form, from jackets to skirts to boots. Suede adds a rich, textured look to outfits, offering a rustic yet sophisticated vibe. This material adds warmth and style, often seen with fringe or patchwork detailing, especially for fall and winter. Suede jackets and skirts have that earthy charm that’s perfect for today’s vintage-inspired styles, and a return of suede staples would make any wardrobe feel more luxurious.
4. Feathered Hair
Feathered haircuts, popularized by icons like Farrah Fawcett, gave us effortless glam with volume and texture. This look is flattering on all face shapes and hair lengths, adding dimension and movement. Feathered layers are a versatile way to add vintage glam without going over the top. As ‘70s hairstyles reappear, this cut would be a fresh way to add style and personality to any hair routine.
5. Maxi Dresses
Flowy, floor-length maxi dresses were a ‘70s staple, perfect for everything from summer festivals to casual outings. These dresses often featured earthy patterns, floral prints, and loose, comfortable fits, making them ideal for all-day wear. Maxis are versatile, comfortable, and effortlessly chic, offering an easy way to look put together with minimal effort. Bringing back this iconic dress would add comfort and elegance to today’s style landscape.
6. Jumpsuits
In the ‘70s, jumpsuits were a wardrobe essential, worn by everyone from disco lovers to fashion icons. A well-fitted jumpsuit offers an all-in-one look that’s both sleek and statement-making. Whether casual or dressy, jumpsuits add instant sophistication and flair. This one-piece wonder combines practicality and style, and it’s time to reclaim its rightful place as a go-to option for both day and night.
7. Crochet Tops and Dresses
Crochet clothing brought texture and a handmade feel to ‘70s fashion, appearing in tops, dresses, and vests. This trend is ideal for layering and works beautifully in casual, dressy looks. Crochet pieces add a cozy, artsy vibe that’s perfect for summer and easy to transition into fall. As sustainable and handmade fashion grows popular, crochet could bring back a refreshing, tactile element to modern wardrobes.
8. Gold and Copper Eyeshadows
The warm, shimmery tones of gold and copper were ‘70s beauty staples, perfect for creating a soft, sultry eye look. These shades flatter almost every skin tone and add a glow that works for day or night. Gold and copper shadows bring a hint of glam without going overboard, creating an earthy and radiant look. A comeback of these shades would add warmth and sophistication to today’s makeup routines.
9. Peasant Blouses
The peasant blouse, with its loose fit, delicate embroidery, and billowy sleeves, captures the free-spirited vibe of the ‘70s. This style is comfortable, versatile, and perfect for layering, making it a great addition to any wardrobe. Peasant blouses add a boho-chic feel to jeans or skirts, bringing a bit of ‘70s romance to today’s fashion. This trend is easygoing yet polished, making it a timeless piece worth reviving.
10. Wide-Brimmed Hats
Wide-brimmed hats were a signature accessory in the ‘70s, adding mystery and sophistication to any look. These hats, made of felt or straw, add a stylish touch to any outfit while offering sun protection. They are perfect for summer and fall, bringing a vintage flair to modern styles. A comeback of this trend would give outfits a dash of elegance and a touch of drama.
11. Satin and Silk Fabrics
Satin and silk fabrics were all about adding luxury and a bit of glam. In the ‘70s, these materials were popular for dresses, blouses, and jumpsuits. Satin and silk add a sleek, polished feel to any outfit, making it easy to transition from day to night. Revising these luxurious fabrics could add an elevated, timeless element to today’s style, making even the simplest pieces feel special.
12. Tinted Sunglasses
Tinted sunglasses in colors like amber, rose, and blue were iconic ‘70s accessories. They add a splash of color and a cool, retro vibe to any outfit. Tinted lenses are great for adding a bit of flair to your everyday look without overpowering it. A return of tinted sunglasses would offer a stylish way to experiment with color while keeping things functional and laid-back.
13. Flowy Kaftans
Kaftans were the epitome of relaxed elegance in the ‘70s. These long, flowy dresses are ideal for lounging, beach days, or casual outings. Kaftans are comfortable, breathable, and effortlessly stylish, making them versatile for any occasion. They’re perfect for layering and add a sense of ease and sophistication to any look. A kaftan revival would bring comfort and bohemian charm back to modern fashion.
14. Bold Patterns and Psychedelic Prints
The ‘70s were known for bold patterns and vibrant prints that expressed individuality and creativity. From wild florals to abstract swirls, these prints add energy and excitement to any outfit. Bold patterns are fun, attention-grabbing, and a great way to show personality through fashion. Reviving these prints would bring a welcome dose of playfulness and nostalgia to today’s wardrobes, encouraging a break from neutral palettes and minimalism.
15. Retro Headbands and Scarves
Bringing back ‘70s headbands and scarves would inject a dose of effortless cool and versatility into today’s fashion. These accessories were a staple for good reason—they add an instant vibe to any outfit, effortlessly blending practicality and style. Headbands and scarves in retro prints or earthy tones can dress up the simplest outfits or add flair to a bohemian look. A scarf tied around the head or wide headband channels a sense of individuality and creative expression that feels fresh even today while nodding to a truly iconic decade’s laid-back, expressive style.