Fashion from the decade my mother was born in

My lovely mum, Denise, was a ’70s baby, a decade characterised by bold and eclectic pieces.
Growing up amidst the height of bell-bottom jeans, platform heels and feathered hair, the
decade my mother was born marked the adoration for disco and bohemian looks.

The 70s were a time heavily influenced by political and social change, which was mirrored in
the fashion trends. Clothing became gradually more relaxed and free-spirited in contrast to
the traditional, conservative nature of previous decades. The ongoing concerns for
feminism, civil rights, and environmental activism after gaining momentum in the ‘60s
shaped the culture of the decade, with rising individualism and experimentation within
fashion. Fashion was thriving, with subcultures like punks, glam rockers and hippies
developing many trends.

It was a decade defined by bright colours and quirky patterns. Pointy shirt collars and
sweater vests were staples of everyday wear, often layered with chevron patterns or
stripes. Statement pieces like Afghan coats and oversized sunglasses were also popular
accessories, embodying the carefree attitude of the era.

Celebrities like Diana Ross, Jane Birkin, and Cher were key figures in the 1970s fashion
scene. Cher distinguished herself as an early fashion icon of the decade with her extravagant
costumes and daring use of colour and accessories, while Jane Birkin popularised casual
French chic in the mainstream. Diana Ross was the pinnacle of elegance, establishing
glamourous gowns, beaded catsuits and sequined dressed.

For my mum, most of her clothes growing up came from leftovers that her father, who worked in
a clothing factory, brought home. She remembers being dressed in Rara skirts and tartan
trousers most of her childhood, her mother taking inspiration from the Bay City Rollers
band. When I asked her to reflect on fashion from the 70s, she said, “Fashion is so much
bigger now than when I was a kid.” She shared her own experience, stating, “Nothing was
designer or branded, it was all hand-me-downs.”

The 1970s were a time when fast fashion had not yet dominated the consumer market and sustainability was more appreciated through DIY and second-hand stores; many had to get creative with their clothing choices. Perhaps we could all learn a thing or two from our parents' books!