Much like the ‘80s, the ‘70s tend to get a bad rap. But to my eye it’s a fashion era full of fun silhouettes, dazzling allure, fabulous textures and interesting garment detailing. If you find it off-putting that ‘70s styles are trending, try to keep an open mind. There might be a lot more that tickles your fancy than you expected.
Here are ten ways to add a ‘70s integrity to your style in a more subtle way. Wear one or two ‘70s items at a time and combine them with items that don’t have a ‘70s feel. No need to look Boho Chic from top to toe unless that’s your cup of tea.
- Flares & Culottes: Sport them with boxy crop tops, tucked masculine shirts, drape front blouses or welted sweatshirts. Remember that bootcuts count as flares.
- The ‘70s Blouse: Many of the floral tops in this week’s roundup had a ‘70s flavour. Sure, they will look fab and extra ‘70s worn with flares. But by all means wear them with skinnies, boyfriend jeans and pencil skirts. Add dainty ankle strap footwear or pointy toe pumps instead of chunky platforms.
- Suede: Think suede jackets, skirts, belts, handbags, footwear and vests. Weathered leather is a good substitute for suede if that’s more your thing. If it’s got fringe, that’s even more ‘70s.
- The ’70’s Bag: Think bucket bags, hobos, and bags with fringe.
- Wrap Dress: Wear a wrap dress with non ‘70s footwear. Think sandal booties, cage heels, d’Orsay styles, loafers or laceless oxfords.
- Combine a Fitted Shirt or Blouse with Blazer and Flares: The outfits on the models in my recent post about flares illustrates this look perfectly. Tuck the shirt or blouse. The belt is optional.
- Platforms: A casual wedge platform sandal or espadrille adds a great ‘70s touch.
- Floppy Hat: Add a felted floppy hat to any casual or smart casual outfit.
- Jumpsuit: A dressy all-in-one jumpsuit is glam and very Studio 54.
- Pendant Necklace: Add a chunky pendant necklace to casual and dressy outfits over crew, scoop or V-necklines.
The outfits below do a good job of showcasing ‘70s flair without looking overly Retro. Some are casual and some are dressy. And some of the ‘70s touches are very subtle, like the model wearing the striped tee and boyfriend jeans with sandals and a bucket bag.
I’m very drawn to some aspects of ‘70s style, as long as the overall effect isn’t too Boho Chic. In particular, flared jeans, bootcut trousers, ‘70s blouses, jumpsuits, and the combination I described in #6 above. How about you?
