We can’t remember a time when 1970s fashion wasn’t relevant, but searches for all things flared, flowy and crochet are up 80% this year on Depop. And, after the airing of Daisy Jones & The Six and a subsequent collection in collaboration with Free People, we imagine that number is only going to grow. In fact, we think we might just have another 1970s renaissance on our hands.
It’s not all Coachella fringing and flair though, the 1970s has always been a decade of inspiration to high fashion designers. Alessandro Michele’s Gucci had the era’s silhouettes embedded firmly in its house codes, and no matter who’s at the helm, Chloé’s earthy colour palette always feels aligned with the more muted tones of the period.
Reluctant to go retro? Take inspiration from style icons of the past: channel Jane Birkin in low-cut jeans and peasant blouses, rock a folk-inspired maxi dress a lá Talitha Getty, or go all-out in a three piece suit like Bianca Jagger. Steer clear of fancy dress territory by opting for contemporary takes on the OG trend and weaving in modern references. And, if in doubt, stick to the real deal and shop strictly vintage – it’s more authentic and better for the planet.
Keep scrolling to see our complete guide to the best 1970s fashion to shop now.
Best 1970s Dresses
In the 1970s, there was quite literally a dress to suit every mood. We kicked off the decade with all things A-line and mini lengths, then quickly graduated to ethereal maxis with all the bells and whistles – balloon sleeves, point collars, tassel trims, the works. The designers that nail this look today? The Vampire’s Wife would have been Stevie Nicks’ go-to back in the day and Rixo drops a new Seventies-inspired midi every single season without fail.
Best 1970s Jumpsuits
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When we think of 1970s jumpsuits we’re instantly reminded of daytime denim and utilitarian belted designs. But, lest we forget, the latter end of the decade was the heyday of disco; a time where Lurex, sequins and halter necks reigned supreme. We envisage both working for your 2023 wardrobe, so we’ve pulled together a load of jumpsuits inspired by the decade. Warehouse’s gold lamé look is a Studio 54 vibe, while Norma Kamali nails the retro cut but feels more versatile in black jersey. Meanwhile, Farm Rio’s jumpsuit captures the laidback 1970s mood perfectly with its drop-crotch silhouette and floral velvet.
Best 1970s Flares
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A staple of the late 1960s, flared trousers hit the big-time in the 1970s thanks to John Travolta’s bootcut suit in Saturday Night Fever and ABBA’s bell-bottomed spandex suits. In 2023, they have never been so versatile: you can wear them with tailoring at work, basic tank tops at the weekend, and with crochet halter necks to summer festivals. You can never go wrong with flared denim and Chloé’s jeans are a testament to the iconic 1970s styles. But more modern takes on flares include Reiss’ draped wide-leg pair and Nanushka’s split-hem vegan-leather iteration.
Best 1970s Shoes
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If the 1960s owned knee high boots, then the 1970s was the decade platforms reigned supreme. Designers Terry De Havilland and De Minno made their mark in the 1970s with colour-clashing patterns and bold silhouettes that were loved by the likes of Bowie and Bianca Jagger. The 2023 take on this trend? It’s all about the old-school clog – and the more buckles and studs, the better, in our opinion. Or, opt for a softer alternative with Gianvito Rossi’s denim platforms.
Best 1970s Sunglasses
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In the 1970s, women let their fashion do the talking – and nothing talked quite as loud as the sunglasses. In contrast to the slender cat-eyed frames of the 1960s, the decade saw bigger and bolder silhouettes take centre stage. Sofia Loren loved a gradient lens paired with an oversized shape, while Gloria Steinem famously rocked yellow-tinted aviators. In 2023, Gucci and Chloé are still the no.1 choice when it comes to 1970s-inspired shades, but if you’re looking to achieve the look for less, Free People is the next best thing.
