The 1970s was a decade that brought us disco, bell-bottom jeans, and some of the boldest fashion trends in history. If you’re yearning for a taste of this time in your everyday attire, you’re not alone. Many people are looking to infuse their wardrobe with the vibrant colors, patterns, and styles of this memorable decade. But how can you do it without looking like you’re stuck in a time warp? This article will guide you in integrating 70s fashion into your modern wardrobe, adding a touch of retro charm to your daily outfits.
Rediscovering 70s Style
Before diving into how to incorporate 70s fashion into your current wardrobe, it’s essential to understand what defines this decade’s style. The 70s were all about self-expression, breaking the mold of conformity prevalent in the 60s. This resulted in a variety of popular styles, including everything from the psychedelic patterns of the early 70s to the punk rock look of the late 70s.
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Bell-bottom jeans were the signature pants of the 70s. Both men and women embraced these flaring trousers that became narrower at the knee and flared out towards the bottom. Another iconic 70s item was the disco shirt. Often made of polyester with bold prints, these button-down shirts were usually worn tight and tucked into high-waist pants.
Women’s fashion was defined by maxi dresses, platform shoes, and wide-legged pants. The era was also known for its use of bright colors and bold patterns, such as paisley, checkered, and floral prints.
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Adding a Touch of 70s to Your Modern Wardrobe
Now that we’ve revisited the past, let’s discover how to integrate these retro elements into your modern wardrobe. Instead of going all-out retro, the key is to incorporate these elements subtly to avoid looking like you’re attending a costume party.
Start with the jeans. Bell-bottom jeans can be quite flattering as they create a balanced silhouette. Pair them with a modern white tee or a trendy crop top. For a more work-appropriate look, try a pair of high-waist, wide-legged pants with a fitted blouse.
Men can embrace the 70s vibe by incorporating patterned shirts into their wardrobe. Choose a modern cut that fits well and pair it with a tailored suit for a fresh take on office wear. A paisley tie or a patterned pocket square can also add a subtle touch of the 70s.
70s Colors and Patterns in Today’s Fashion
One of the defining characteristics of the 70s was its bold use of color. Psychedelic patterns, neon hues, and vibrant earth tones were all popular. However, integrating these into your modern wardrobe requires a thoughtful approach.
Instead of an all-over print, look for pieces with small nods to these patterns. A floral blouse or a paisley skirt can add a pop of 70s without overwhelming your outfit. For men, try a tie with a subtle geometric pattern or a shirt with a small, repeated print.
When it comes to color, the 70s were all about earth tones. Think mustard yellows, avocado greens, and chestnut browns. These can easily be incorporated into your current wardrobe. For example, an avocado green handbag or a mustard yellow scarf can add a nice 70s touch.
70s Hairstyles for Modern Times
The 70s were a transformative time for hair. Women wore their hair long and straight, often parted down the middle. Men embraced longer, shaggier styles. Unfortunately, these hairstyles may not suit everyone or be appropriate for all situations in the modern era.
Thankfully, there are ways to incorporate 70s-inspired hairstyles into your current look. Women could try wearing their hair in loose waves, a nod to the natural hairstyles of the era. Adding a thin, braided headband can give an additional 70s touch.
For men, consider growing your hair out slightly and embracing a more tousled style. If long hair isn’t for you, you could also try incorporating elements like sideburns or mustaches, which were popular during this time.
Reviving 70s Dress Styles for Women and Men
The 70s were a golden era for dresses. Women’s fashion saw a surge in maxi dresses, often in bright patterns and made from light, flowing fabrics. While these can look a bit dated today, you can still incorporate elements of 70s dress styles into your current wardrobe.
Try a maxi dress in a modern print or color. Pair it with a slim belt to accentuate your waist, and finish the look with a pair of strappy sandals.
For men, the 70s were all about the leisure suit. While a full-blown leisure suit might be too much for everyday wear, you can certainly incorporate elements of it into your modern style. Try a tailored suit in a slightly bolder color, like navy or burgundy, and pair it with a patterned shirt for a subtle nod to the 70s.
Integrating 70s fashion into your current wardrobe doesn’t have to be daunting. With a few tweaks and some thoughtful styling, you can add a touch of retro chic to your everyday style. The key is to find a balance between the past and present to create a look that’s uniquely you.
Embracing 70s Footwear
When thinking about the 70s, one type of shoe undoubtedly comes to mind: platform shoes. These were a must-have fashion item of the era, worn by both men and women. For men, platform shoes were often paired with bell bottoms, while women wore them with everything from hot pants to maxi dresses.
But how can you incorporate these into your modern outfits without looking outdated? The key here is to find a balance. You don’t need to go for the brightly colored or excessively high platforms that were popular in the 70s. Instead, opt for a pair with a more subdued color palette and a platform that’s not too high.
For women, try pairing modern platform shoes with high waisted jeans or a wrap dress for a chic, updated look. Men can wear them with well-fitted jeans or tailored suit pants. Remember to always balance out the boldness of the shoes with more neutral pieces to avoid going overboard.
Leather jackets were also a big hit in the 70s, largely influenced by the glam rock trend. To subtly incorporate this into your wardrobe, choose a leather jacket in a modern fit and pair it with a simple white tee and jeans.
Bringing Back 70s Accessories
Accessories are an excellent way to subtly add a touch of 70s flair to your outfit without overdoing it. Let’s explore some key accessories from this era and how to use them in a contemporary way.
The most iconic accessory of the 70s was perhaps the tie dye. This was a technique used to create brightly colored, psychedelic patterns on fabric. You can incorporate tie dye into your modern wardrobe through accessories like scarves, headbands, or even socks. Choose pieces in muted colors for a more understated look.
Another big trend of the 70s was oversized sunglasses, often seen on fashion icons like Bianca Jagger. These can easily be incorporated into your current style, adding a touch of retro glamour to any outfit. Opt for a pair in a classic shape and color to keep the look modern.
Conclusion
The 70s was a decade of diverse fashion trends, from bell bottom jeans and platform shoes to leather jackets and tie dye accessories. While these styles may seem a bit bold or outdated today, with a little creativity and a balance between retro and modern elements, you can successfully integrate them into your everyday outfits.
Remember that the key is subtlety. You don’t have to dress head-to-toe in 70s fashion to channel the essence of this era. Instead, choose a few key pieces or accessories that you love and combine them with your current wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make the look your own.
The 70s were all about self-expression and individuality, so don’t be afraid to let your own personality shine through your outfits. Whether you’re a fan of bright colors, love the glam rock look, or are drawn to the boho chic styles of the era, there’s a way to integrate these trends into your modern wardrobe. Remember, fashion should be fun and a way to express yourself, so enjoy reviving these iconic 70s trends in your own unique way.