As iconic as the fashion was, there were choices that now seem insane, as well as choices that have stoof the test of time and continue to be worn to this day. Let’s start with the bad and end on a high note.
‘Curtain’ patterns
The type of colour matching that can only be described as putting your nan’s terrible curtains onto your body. This may range from a blinding array of bright colours in polka dots to a more subdued colour pallet emboldened with horizontal, vertical, and the worse of all, zigzag, lines.
Double Denim
Before I judge the denim-on-denim choice, I need to give the look some credit. I think in certain scenarios the look deserves some wear, for example a lighter shade of thick denim can be a fun 80s inspired look, however the 70s style of dark, think denim is unappealing and simply outdated.
I think in certain scenarios the look deserves some wear, for example a lighter shade of thick denim can be a fun 80s inspired look
Bell-bottom jeans
In recent years low waisted jeans have made a well-deserved comeback, however bell-bottom needs to be kept in the past. The unflattering shape of a wide ankle combined with the tight fit at the hip of low rise offers an outdated look. Bell-bottom must not be confused with flared however, which is still very much a deservedly trendy look.
Now on to the good.
Dungarees
A staple of anyone’s wardrobe, a good pair of dungarees has survived the test of time. The 70s look of more tight-fitting dungarees maintains a modern look even 50 years on. With the ability to be paired with almost any t-shirt, blouse, sweatshirt, hoodie and more, it’s no surprise that they remain so popular.
The 70s look of more tight-fitting dungarees maintains a modern look even 50 years on
Afghan coats
An item that not everyone can wear, but everyone can love. The rise in popularity of Afghan coats in the 70s complimented the tight-fitting silhouettes at the time. Today, Afghan coats are still worn as they once were, however, are now seen with more loose items such as flowy dresses and blouses. The classic look of an Afghan coat; a formal item that thrives in informal scenarios, remains one of my personal favourite looks.
Block colour
Not to be confused with ‘curtain’ patterns, block colour combines several colours in a simplistic format which offers a flattering and fun outfit. The matching of a pair of red high-waisted trousers and an orange knitted jumper (almost Velma inspired) captures the iconic 70s hippie aesthetic. Of course, the combination of almost any colour in a block format can be made into a vintage-inspired outfit.
