If you have been invited to a 70s party, you may be wondering what to wear. Fear not, for we have got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the fashion trends of the era, essential clothing items, accessories, makeup, and hairstyles for a complete 70s-inspired outfit. So, get ready to rock that disco ball with confidence and style!
Understanding the 70s Fashion Trends
The 70s was a unique decade in terms of fashion. It was an era where anything goes, from bold prints to flowing fabrics and tight fitting clothing. However, there were specific fashion trends that emerged and prevailed throughout the decade.
The Rise of Disco and Glam
The 70s saw the rise of disco music, and it had a significant impact on fashion. Disco fashion was characterized by glitter, sequins, and shiny fabrics. Clothing was tight fitting, and platform shoes were all the rage. Women wore jumpsuits, maxi dresses, and hot pants, while men wore bell-bottom pants and flashy shirts with wide collars.
The disco trend was not only limited to clothing but also extended to hairstyles. The iconic disco hairstyles included the afro, which was popularized by celebrities like Michael Jackson and Diana Ross. Men also wore their hair long and straight, while women rocked the feathered hair look.
Disco fashion was not only limited to the dance floor but also made its way into everyday wear. People wore glittery tops, sequined jackets, and metallic skirts to work and school. The disco trend was all about making a statement and being bold.
The Influence of Hippie and Bohemian Styles
The hippie and bohemian counter-cultures of the 60s carried over into the 70s. Fashion was more relaxed, with flower prints, fringes, and flared pants. Denim was also very popular, from denim jackets to bell-bottom jeans.
The bohemian look was all about being free-spirited and embracing nature. Women wore long, flowing dresses made of natural fabrics like cotton and linen. They also accessorized with headbands, large sunglasses, and beaded jewelry. Men wore loose-fitting shirts and pants, and sandals.
The hippie trend was also characterized by political activism and anti-war sentiment. T-shirts with political slogans and peace signs were popular, as were denim vests with patches and buttons that expressed political views.
The Emergence of Punk and Rock
The punk and rock movements of the 70s also had an influence on fashion. Leather jackets, ripped jeans, and band t-shirts were worn by both men and women. The punk look was messy and rebellious, with studded belts and boots being essential accessories.
The punk trend was all about being anti-establishment and rejecting mainstream fashion. People wore ripped t-shirts and safety pins as jewelry. The punk look was also characterized by brightly colored hair, with people dyeing their hair pink, blue, and green.
The rock trend was more classic, with people emulating the style of popular rock bands like Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones. Leather jackets, tight jeans, and bandanas were all popular accessories. Women also embraced the rock trend, with some wearing leather pants and jackets.
The 70s was a decade of fashion experimentation and self-expression. It was a time when people embraced their individuality and expressed themselves through their clothing and hairstyles. The fashion trends of the 70s continue to inspire designers and fashionistas today.
Essential Clothing Items for a 70s Party
Now that you understand the fashion trends of the 70s, let’s explore some essential clothing items that will make you look like you just stepped out of a time machine.
The 70s was a decade of fashion experimentation and self-expression. It was a time when people wanted to break free from traditional fashion norms and express themselves through their clothing. This era was all about bold colors, patterns, and textures.
Bell-Bottom Pants and Jumpsuits
Bell-bottom pants were the epitome of disco fashion, and they are a must-have for any 70s party. These pants were tight-fitted at the top and flared out at the bottom, creating a bell shape. They were often made of denim or corduroy and were paired with tight-fitted tops.
Jumpsuits were also very popular, and they came in a variety of styles, from halter tops to long sleeve button-downs. They were made of comfortable fabrics like cotton and polyester and were often adorned with bold prints and patterns.
Maxi Dresses and Skirts
Maxi dresses and skirts were popular in the hippie and bohemian counter-culture of the 70s. They were long, flowing dresses and skirts that were perfect for dancing and twirling. They were often made of lightweight fabrics like cotton and silk and came in a variety of colors and patterns.
Pair your maxi dress or skirt with a denim or leather jacket for a more edgy look.
Platform Shoes and Boots
Platform shoes and boots are a staple of disco fashion. They were high-heeled shoes with a thick platform sole, making them comfortable to wear for long periods. These shoes came in a variety of styles, from ankle boots to knee-high boots, and they will take any outfit to the next level.
Pair your platform shoes or boots with a pair of bell-bottom pants or a maxi dress for the ultimate 70s look.
Tie-Dye and Bold Prints
The 70s were all about bold prints and patterns, and tie-dye was no exception. Tie-dye shirts, dresses, and even pants were popular. They were made by folding and twisting the fabric and then dyeing it in vibrant colors.
Bold prints like animal prints, paisley, and geometric shapes were also popular. These prints were often paired with solid-colored clothing items to create a statement look.
When choosing your outfit for a 70s party, remember to have fun with it and embrace the bold and daring fashion of the era.
Accessorizing Your 70s Outfit
Accessories are an important part of any outfit, and they can make or break your 70s look. But what were the most popular accessories of the 70s? Let’s take a closer look.
Statement Jewelry Pieces
Chunky necklaces, hoop earrings, and bangles were all popular in the 70s. These bold and colorful pieces were often made of plastic or wood, and they were perfect for adding a touch of glamour to any outfit. But why stop at just one piece of statement jewelry? The 70s were all about excess, so don’t be afraid to pile on the necklaces and bracelets for a truly eye-catching look.
Wide-brimmed Hats and Headbands
Wide-brimmed hats and headbands were popular in the hippie and bohemian fashion trends of the 70s. These accessories were often made of natural materials like straw or suede, and they were perfect for adding a touch of boho chic to your outfit. But why stop at just one hat or headband? The 70s were all about mixing and matching, so try pairing a floppy hat with a colorful headband for a truly groovy look.
Fringe and Tassels
Fringe and tassels were all the rage in the 70s. They were used on clothing, handbags, and even shoes. A fringe jacket or a tasseled bag will make your 70s outfit stand out. But why stop at just one fringe or tassel item? The 70s were all about texture, so try pairing a fringed vest with tasseled boots for a truly tactile look.
Oversized Sunglasses
No 70s outfit is complete without a pair of oversized sunglasses. The bigger, the better. Choose sunglasses with round or square frames for an authentic 70s look. But why stop at just one pair of sunglasses? The 70s were all about drama, so try pairing a colorful pair of shades with a bold headscarf for a truly show-stopping look.
Hairstyles and Makeup for a 70s Party
Hairstyles and makeup were an essential part of the 70s fashion trends. Let’s look at some of the hairstyles and makeup looks that were popular in the 70s.
Feathered Hair and Farrah Fawcett Waves
Feathered hair and Farrah Fawcett waves were iconic hairstyles of the 70s. They were achieved by using a hair straightener to create feather-like curls. The hair was then brushed out to create a feathered effect. To add more volume, hair spray was used, and the hair was flipped upside down and sprayed again. This hairstyle was popularized by actress Farrah Fawcett in the famous poster where she is seen sporting this hairstyle.
The Afro and Natural Hair Movement
The afro and the natural hair movement were significant in the 70s. Women proudly wore their hair in its natural state, rocking kinky, curly, and coily hair. The afro was a symbol of black pride and empowerment. This hairstyle was not only fashionable but also a political statement. Women who wore their hair in an afro were making a statement about their cultural identity and their rejection of Eurocentric beauty standards.
The natural hair movement was not limited to the afro hairstyle. Women also wore their hair in braids, twists, and cornrows. These hairstyles were not only fashionable but also practical. They allowed women to protect their hair and maintain its health without using harsh chemicals.
Bold Eyeshadow and Glam Makeup
Bold eyeshadow was trendy in the 70s. Colors like gold, silver, and blue were popular. The glam makeup look was also in vogue. It involved heavy eyeliner, false eyelashes, and bright red lipstick. This makeup look was inspired by the disco era and was perfect for a night out at the club.
Makeup was not only about bold colors and heavy eyeliner. The natural look was also popular in the 70s. This look involved using neutral colors and minimal makeup to enhance natural beauty. The emphasis was on healthy, glowing skin, and a fresh-faced look.
The No-Makeup Makeup Look
The no-makeup makeup look was also prevalent in the 70s. It was a natural and minimalistic beauty look that involved a light foundation, neutral eyeshadow, and lip gloss. This look was perfect for everyday wear and was popularized by celebrities like Ali MacGraw and Jane Birkin.
Overall, the 70s was a decade of experimentation and self-expression. The hairstyles and makeup looks of this era were diverse and reflected the changing cultural landscape. Whether you prefer bold and glamorous looks or natural and minimalistic styles, there is something for everyone in the 70s fashion trends.
In Conclusion
With these fashion tips, you can confidently rock a 70s outfit at your next party. Remember, the 70s were all about expressing yourself and having fun. So, go ahead and have some fun with your outfit, accessories, and makeup. You’ll surely be the most stylish disco queen in the room!
