The 1970s stand out as one of the most iconic and diverse decades in fashion history. It was an era where clothing became a powerful form of self-expression and rebellion, giving rise to several distinct and major styles. In this series, we're diving deep into these trends, starting with the one that truly defined the era's spirit: the free-flowing, nature-loving Hippie style.
1 - HIPPIE
The Hippie style was the direct sartorial expression of the counterculture movement. It championed ideals of peace, love, and a return to nature. Inspired by 'flower power,' it was a rejection of mainstream conformity in favor of individuality, spiritual freedom, and a connection to the earth and global cultures. The overall vibe was one of effortless, laid-back, and organic freedom. This look also laid the foundation for what would later evolve into the so-called 'bohemian' or 'boho' style. However, in the 1970s, it was first and foremost the Hippie silhouette that defined the decade, with its radical and rebellious spirit.
🔸Key Pieces
The silhouette was all about fluidity and a lack of structure. Long, flowing maxi dresses and peasant blouses with embroidery were staples. Bottoms featured wide-legged styles like flared jeans, famously known as bell-bottoms, and casual palazzo pants often made from denim or soft corduroy. Layering was essential, with fringed suede vests, crocheted cardigans, ponchos, and capes adding texture and depth to the outfits. The look was intentionally relaxed and oversized, moving away from the restrictive clothing of previous decades.
🔸Patterns & Colors
This style was a vibrant celebration of color and print. Psychedelic and floral patterns were everywhere, often applied using the popular tie-dye technique, where each garment was uniquely hand-dyed. The palette drew inspiration both from nature and from the psychedelic movement, mixing earthy hues like mustard yellow, burnt orange, rusty brown, olive green, and sandy beige with bursts of vivid tones such as fuchsia, turquoise, and purple.
🔸Footwear
🔸Accessories
Accessories were handmade, artisanal, and full of meaning. Jewelry was crafted from natural materials like wood, beads, feathers, and shells, often featuring peace signs and other symbolic pendants. Headbands, whether thin leather straps, woven fabrics, or flower crowns were a signature accessory, embodying the Hippie ideal of harmony with nature. Slouchy leather shoulder bags, macramé or crocheted handbags, and festival-ready totes completed the look.
🔸Hairstyles
Hairstyles embraced a 'less is more' philosophy, aiming for a natural, untouched look. Long, straight hair with a center parting was the ultimate signature style, often with natural waves or a slight bend. The hair was rarely overly styled; the goal was to look effortlessly natural. This was accessorized with bandanas, scarves tied around the head, and delicate braids woven into the hair, sometimes adorned with small flowers or feathers.
🔸Makeup
Hippie makeup was minimal and designed to enhance one's natural features. The ideal was a sun-kissed, healthy glow, often achieved with little more than a touch of bronzer. Eyes were softly defined with earthy eyeshadows in shades of brown, moss green, sometimes with a hint of shimmer. Lips were kept neutral with nude or pale pink lip balm. On occasion, a very fine and discreet line of eyeliner might be used, but the overall effect was always one of natural beauty.
2 - WESTERN
The Folk and Western style drew its inspiration from the rich imagery of Americana, country music, and the rustic, pioneering spirit. It was a grounded and warm aesthetic, evoking a sense of authenticity, hard work, and a connection to the land. This trend offered a more structured and romanticized counterpart to the psychedelic hippie movement, focusing on craftsmanship, tradition, and a touch of cowboy charm.
🔸Key pieces
The western look was built on durable, practical pieces with a fitted silhouette. High-waisted, straight-leg jeans in raw denim formed the backbone, paired with classic plaid shirts often tucked in to highlight the waist. Suede and leather brought texture, whether in fringe-trimmed jackets that added movement or shorter vests layered for versatility. To expand the silhouette, ponchos offered warmth and drama, while for women, long cotton dresses with embroidery or lace softened the rugged aesthetic without losing its frontier spirit.
🔸Patterns & Colors
Patterns leaned rustic, rooted in traditional workwear. Buffalo check and classic plaids dominated, especially on shirts and outerwear. Western embroidery added ornament to yokes, pockets, and jeans, with motifs ranging from horseshoes and cacti to geometric or Native-inspired designs. Denim often carried natural fades, echoing wear over time. The palette was warm and earthy, mirroring the western landscape: deep browns, sandy beiges, the timeless blue of denim, with accents of brick red and burned orange.
🔸Footwear
Footwear was essential to the western aesthetic, with cowboy boots reigning supreme. Typically crafted in brown or black leather, they often featured intricate embroidery along the shaft and the signature pointed toe. For a softer or more casual alternative, suede moccasins or rustic ankle boots with low block heels offered comfort while keeping the look grounded in an earthy, handcrafted vibe.
🔸Accessories
Accessories were essential to achieving an authentic western feel. Wide-brimmed felt or straw cowboy hats remained the most iconic piece, instantly transforming any outfit. Leather belts, often braided or adorned with oversized sculpted buckles, added both function and flair, cinching shirts, jeans, or dresses. Artisanal details like handcrafted necklaces, brooches, and turquoise or silver accents often drew inspiration from nature, completing the look with a subtle, rustic elegance.
🔸Hairstyles
Hairstyles embraced a soft, natural, and romantic feel. Hair was typically worn long with gentle waves or a wavy texture, often parted in the center. Thick braids, worn loose or gathered into low, soft chignons, were a signature look. Wide-brimmed western hats influenced the style as well, flattening the crown slightly and creating soft waves around the face, a look that endured even when the hat was removed.
🔸Makeup
Makeup was understated, inspired by a natural, sun-kissed look. The focus was on a warm, healthy glow, with blush in terracotta or peach tones. Lips stayed within the natural spectrum, in shades of nude, peach, or soft coral. Eyes were lightly defined with matte, earthy shadows in brown or copper tones, adding subtle depth without dramatic flair. Eyebrows were kept natural to maintain the effortless, rustic aesthetic.
3 - GLAM ROCK
The Glam Rock style stood in stark contrast to the era's naturalistic trends. Built on rebellion, theatrical provocation, and raw energy, it drew inspiration from icons like David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust and Marc Bolan of T.Rex. This aesthetic rejected conformity and celebrated androgyny, excess, and a larger-than-life persona. More than clothing, it was about creating a full-blown rock 'n' roll costume, a striking visual statement as much as a musical one.
🔸Key pieces
Silhouettes were tight, sharp, and designed to shock. Skinny trousers in black leather, vinyl, or tight denim were a staple. These were paired with equally fitted jackets, most notably the iconic leather biker jacket 'perfecto', which became a universal symbol of rock rebellion. For a more flamboyant Glam look, satin shirts, often left provocatively open, and boldly patterned wide-leg jumpsuits took center stage.
🔸Patterns & Colors
This style embraced bold, flashy, and aggressive patterns. Animal prints like leopard and zebra were huge, symbolizing a wild, untamed energy. Graphic stripes and shiny fabrics woven with metallic threads created that dazzling, spotlight-ready effect essential to the glamorous, star-quality look. The color palette was stark and high-contrast, dominated by the quintessential rock'n'roll black, punctuated with vibrant red, electric blue, and shiny silver or gold.
🔸Footwear
Shoes were a foundational element of the rock attitude. Pointed-toe ankle boots in black leather, often adorned with buckles or zippers, were the go-to for a tougher rock look. For the full Glam Rock effect, nothing compared to the gravity-defying platform boots in black, bright colors, or metallic finishes. Creepers and polished derby shoes also found their place, adding a dandyish yet rebellious touch to the ensemble.
🔸Accessories
Accessories were anything but subtle. Lightweight scarves, often made of silk or chiffon, were tied around the neck or draped over microphones. Jewelry was loud and visible, featuring heavy chains, large rings, and pendants. The most crucial accessory, however, was makeup, which was worn liberally by men and women alike as a powerful tool of androgyny and artistic expression.
🔸Hairstyles
Hairstyles were deliberately deconstructed, messy, and wild. The goal was an 'I just got off stage' look teased, backcombed, and full of volume. Brightly colored streaks or entire heads of dyed hair (a true precursor to later trends) were common. Androgyny was key, with women sporting sharp, short cuts and men growing their hair long. David Bowie's influence was paramount, popularizing geometric cuts, sharp mullets, and fiery red dyes that became synonymous with the Glam Rock movement.
🔸Makeup
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Makeup was androgynous, theatrical, and absolutely non-negotiable. Metallic and iridescent eyeshadows in silver, blue, and gold were applied with dramatic effect. Eyeliner was used to create graphic, exaggerated lines, wings, and shapes that extended far beyond the natural eye. Lips were painted in classic rock red or, for the more extreme, shocking black. The final, iconic touch was the liberal use of glitter on the cheeks and around the eyes, and even graphic designs like lightning bolts or stars painted on the face.
4 - DISCO CHIC
Pure, unadulterated extravagance. Disco Chic was a nocturnal celebration of hedonism, luxury, and dazzling excess, directly inspired by the legendary nightlife of clubs like New York's Studio 54. It was a head-to-toe commitment to shine, designed to catch the light and all eyes on the dance floor. This look was all about confidence, sex appeal, and a futuristic, glamorous fantasy.
🔸Key pieces
Silhouettes were dramatically sleek, body-conscious, and designed for movement. The ultimate power piece was the jumpsuit, often halter-neck, sometimes plunging in front, fitted through the torso but flowing into straight or flared legs that created a long, dramatic line. Slinky, sequined wrap dresses with thigh-high slits or micro-short hemlines were iconic. Tops were cropped, sparkling, and designed to reveal skin, often paired with high-waisted, wide-leg or tightly flared trousers that hugged the hips and thighs. Every outfit was engineered to dazzle.
🔸Patterns & Colors
This trend was less about prints and more about texture and pure, unapologetic shine. Solid metallic fabrics in gold, silver, and bronze were the undisputed stars of the disco floor. Sequins and paillettes created a shimmering surface that caught every flicker of light. When color was used, it was flashy and electric: hot pink, vivid violet, deep turquoise, and emerald green all competed to be the brightest under the strobe lights.
🔸Footwear
Disco footwear was a feat of extreme style engineering. The goal was height and drama. Platform shoes were non-negotiable, with soles reaching a staggering 10 to 15 centimeters for both men and women. These came as glittering sandals with sky-high wedge heels, classic pumps, or even platform boots in shiny vinyl or metallic leather. Dancing all night in these architectural marvels was a true test of devotion to disco.
🔸Accessories
Accessories were bold, shiny, and designed to catch the eye from across the room. Belts with enormous, sculptural buckles, often mirrored or metallic, cinched the waist. Statement jewelry was essential, particularly large, dangling hoop earrings or dramatic chandelier styles. Oversized, tinted sunglasses were worn even at night, adding an air of mystery and celebrity. Yet, despite all these shiny details, the most important accessory was the makeup, as the look was never complete without it.
🔸Hairstyles
Volume was the undisputed goal. Hair was big, blown-out, and full of body, achieved with generous backcombing and hairspray. The magnificent Afro was proudly worn as a powerful symbol of natural beauty and style. For a sleeker look, glossy, perfectly straight bobs and precision cuts were also popular. For the most formal evenings, elaborate updos and chignons, sometimes threaded with ribbons or sequins, were the height of disco.
🔸Makeup
Makeup was glittery, dramatic, and anything but subtle. Iridescent and multicolored eyeshadows in shades of electric blue, vibrant violet, silver, and gold were applied boldly. Eyeliner was sharply defined, and false eyelashes were applied liberally for a wide-eyed, doll-like effect. Lips were glossy, often with a frosted or metallic finish. The entire look was brought to life with shimmering highlighters on the cheekbones and brow bones, catching the light with every turn on the dance floor.
5 - CASUAL SPORTSWEAR
The rise of relaxed comfort and athletic influence. This style was the antithesis of the decade's more extravagant trends, prioritizing practicality, ease of movement, and a fresh, youthful energy. Inspired by the growing popularity of jogging, tennis, and other recreational sports, it signaled the beginning of sportswear's transition into everyday mainstream fashion. The mood was active, casual, and effortlessly cool.
🔸Key pieces
The silhouette was relaxed and functional. The tracksuit became the ultimate symbol of this trend, often in matching sets of vibrant nylon or velour. Polo shirts and simple t-shirts with small logos or brand names, like the iconic Lacoste crocodile, were wardrobe essentials. These were paired with comfortable shorts, often in terry cloth or velour for a soft, casual feel, or with straight-leg jeans for a more versatile look.
🔸Patterns & Colors
This look was all about solid, bold colors. Energetic hues like royal blue, fiery red, sunny yellow, and crisp white dominated, while busy patterns were rare. When patterns did appear, they were almost always the iconic contrasting stripe borrowed straight from athletic gear, running down the arms and legs of the matching sets.
🔸Footwear
This era cemented the sneaker's place in fashion history. Iconic models like the Adidas Gazelle, Puma Suede, and the timeless Converse All Star became must-haves, valued for both their performance and their style.
🔸Accessories
Accessories were functional yet stylish. Baseball caps and terry cloth headbands kept hair and sweat out of the face during activity. Sports bags from brands like Adidas, Puma, or Fila, made of nylon, canvas, or glossy vinyl with big visible logos, were everywhere. They weren’t just practical for carrying gear, they also showed off the sporty, casual lifestyle. By the end of the decade, digital watches such as the Casio calculator watch added a futuristic accessory that fit the modern, active vibe.
🔸Hairstyles
Hairstyles were practical and low-maintenance. High ponytails, often secured with sporty headbands or scrunchies, were a go-to for an active day. Short, easy-care pixie cuts and bobs were also popular for their practicality. The decade also saw natural styles celebrated, with Afros and growing numbers of dreadlocks worn proudly as statements of identity within casual fashion.
🔸Makeup
Makeup reflected the ethos of simplicity and naturalness. The goal was a fresh-faced, healthy glow rather than a made-up look. Complexions were kept light and natural. Lips were glossy, in clear or rosy shades, and eyes were subtly defined with mascara and a sweep of neutral eyeshadow. The look was all about enhancing one's natural features.
A Decade of Dueling Identities
The 1970s stand as a unique chapter in fashion history, not for a single, unified look, but for its explosive diversity and the way clothing became a marker of identity and belonging. It was a cultural battleground of styles, each reflecting a completely different worldview.
On one side, the Hippie and Western trends embraced a nostalgic, back-to-the-earth idealism, drawing inspiration from nature, tradition, and craft. On the other, the Glam Rock and Disco Chic celebrated a futuristic, theatrical rebellion, steeped in androgyny, excess, and the energy of nightlife. Meanwhile, the rise of Casual Sportswear foreshadowed a monumental shift towards comfort and practicality, laying the groundwork for the athleisure revolution that would define later decades.
So, which 70s style speaks to you most? Share your favorite in the comments!
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