With all the bright colors, tie-and-dye, and sequins, 1970s fashion was a time of bold experimentation and self-expression. This era gave us disco, punk, and an array of styles that truly defined the decade. However, not every trend from this wacky period has aged well. While some looks are celebrated for their nostalgic charm, others are remembered as outright fashion fails.
Many 70s trends are reminisced upon with a mixture of amusement and horror. These styles may have been the height of fashion then, but today, they serve as cautionary tales of how too much boldness can go wrong.
The fashion trends of the 70s might seem odd today, but they weren’t all bad. In fact, items like bell bottoms and skinny jeans have periodically made a stylish comeback in the fashion world. Here are the 70s fashion trends that people love to hate.
Note: Due to copyright concerns, photos may not be an exact depiction of the fashion trend.
1. Polyester Suits
Polyester suits were all the rage in the 70s, but this trend hasn’t aged gracefully. Made from synthetic materials, these suits were often stiff and uncomfortable, lacking the breathability of natural fabrics. The shiny, almost plastic-like finish of polyester suits made them look cheap despite the initial intention to appear fashionable.
These suits were usually designed in loud, bright colors, further compounding their flashy appearance. Their inability to drape naturally over the body meant they often looked ill-fitting and awkward.
2. Terry Cloth Jumpsuits
Terry cloth jumpsuits seemed like a good idea at the time—comfort and style rolled into one. Made from the same material as your average beach towel, these jumpsuits were touted as the ultimate leisurewear. However, the reality was far less appealing.
The thick, absorbent fabric made terry cloth jumpsuits a bit bulky and less than flattering. They soaked up moisture easily but were slow to dry, making them ideal for cozying up at home rather than any other activity where you would potentially sweat. The loose design was more about a comfy look than chic.
3. Pop Tops
Can you envision wearing an outfit crafted from soda can pull tabs? In the 1970s, people did more than just imagine it, they went ahead and created clothes, hats, and accessories from the can ring-pulls. While this was a creative way to recycle, the resulting fashion pieces were often not very practical.
Pop tops were particularly used for hats, tops, and even bikinis. Unfortunately, the sharp edges of the pull tabs could easily poke and scratch the skin. Not to mention, it was difficult to achieve a cohesive look with these pieces due to their metallic sheen and stiff structure. While this trend may have been eco-friendly, it’s one that many are happy has not stuck around.
4. Plaid Suits
Plaid suits, often in bright and clashing colors, were another major trend in the 1970s. These suits were an attempt to bring a bit of British sophistication to American fashion, but they missed the mark by a wide margin. The bold patterns were overwhelming, making it difficult to pull off a coordinated look.
The combination of loud colors and oversized plaids often resulted in a chaotic aesthetic that was more distracting than stylish. Plaid suits are now viewed as one of the more cringe-worthy aspects of 70s fashion, a reminder that sometimes less is more.
5. Platform Shoes
Platform shoes were undoubtedly one of the most iconic trends from the 70s, but they also proved to be incredibly impractical. These shoes had thick soles that ranged from two to four inches in height, making walking a challenge for even the most experienced fashionista.
Platform shoes were often clunky and heavy, and required extra effort to walk in without tripping or falling over. Plus, they weren’t exactly versatile for everyday wear, making them more of a fashion statement than a practical shoe choice.
6. Bell Bottoms
We can’t talk about 70s fashion without mentioning bell bottoms. They are perhaps one of the most iconic fashion trends of the 70s. These wide-legged pants were initially embraced for their unique style and comfort. However, their extremely flared bottoms often led to unfortunate fashion mishaps.
The exaggerated flares made walking tricky, often causing the wearer to trip over their own pants. While they’ve made a few comebacks over the years, bell bottoms remain a fashion choice that not everyone agrees on.
7. Popping Collars
Popping collars, or wearing your shirt collar upturned, was a fashion statement that said, “Look at me!” While it aimed to convey a cool, laid-back vibe, it often seemed like the person was trying too hard. This trend appeared in both casual and formal wear, making it common yet often joked about the 70s trend.
The upturned collar didn’t quite enhance the overall outfit and was often seen as a desperate attempt to stand out. Today, popping collars are more likely to be seen as a fashion faux pas rather than a cool statement.
8. Loud Colors
The 70s were all about making a statement, and what better way to do that than with bold, screaming colors? Neon greens, electric blues, and shocking pinks were all the rage. These colors were definitely eye-catching, even if they sometimes clashed quite a bit.
The overuse of such bright colors made outfits look more like clown costumes than fashion-forward ensembles. The lack of subtlety and the sheer audacity of these color choices have made loud colors one of the most criticized aspects of 70s fashion.
9. Huge Shoulder Pads
When one thinks of shoulder pads, the question that inevitably arises is, “Why?” Although shoulder pads are often associated with the 80s, they had their origins in the late 70s. These oversized pads were meant to give the illusion of broader shoulders and a more powerful silhouette. However, they often ended up making a person look comically large.
The oversized shoulder pads looked a bit unnatural and awkward. They also made finding well-fitting jackets and blazers a challenge. Nowadays, those huge shoulder pads remind us that bigger isn’t always better.
10. Frayed Jeans
Frayed jeans are another memorable entry in the 70s fashion scene. These jeans, with their intentionally distressed and tattered hems, aimed to project a rebellious, carefree vibe. While the look sometimes appeared more laid-back than stylish, it certainly made a statement!
The frayed edges of the jeans quickly deteriorated with wear, giving them an even more ragged appearance. Moreover, this trend proved impractical, as the frayed hems could snag on objects, causing additional damage and posing potential safety hazards. Despite several revival attempts over the years, frayed jeans remain a contentious choice in the fashion world.
11. Peasant Blouses
Peasant blouses were another defining feature of 70s fashion, often characterized by their billowy sleeves, flowing fabrics, and intricate embroidery. Originally inspired by traditional Eastern European folk clothing, these tops became a staple in the wardrobes of many during the decade.
The loose-fitting design often lacked structure, making it tricky to achieve a polished look. The heavy use of ornate patterns and embroidery could sometimes make the blouses seem a bit too busy, taking away from the overall outfit.
12. Chokers
Chokers were a prevalent accessory in the 70s, adding an edgy and bold touch to many outfits. These tight-fitting necklaces were often made from materials like velvet, leather, or even plastic and frequently featured decorative elements such as pendants, studs, or lace.
One of the main downsides of chokers was their discomfort. The snug fit around the neck could feel a bit restrictive, especially if worn for long periods. Plus, chokers were often hit or miss in fashion—they either added a bold touch to an outfit or seemed a bit too harsh and out of place.
13. Natural Materials Jewelry
Jewelry made from natural materials like wood, stones, and feathers became a distinctive element of 70s fashion, aligning with the era’s emphasis on organic and bohemian styles. These pieces often portrayed an earthy aesthetic, featuring handcrafted designs and unique textures.
Wood and feathers looked fantastic but weren’t as durable as metals and gemstones so the jewelry tended to wear out more quickly. Rocks, on the other hand, could make the pieces a bit heavy and sometimes a little uncomfortable to wear.
14. Ruffles and Lace on Shirts
Ruffles and lace on shirts were a hallmark of 70s fashion, adding a whimsical touch of romance to any outfit. These embellishments graced both men’s and women’s shirts, bringing layers of texture and intricate detailing. Ruffles cascading down the front or adorning sleeve cuffs aimed to create a dramatic and expressive look.
Lace inserts and trim added to the vintage charm, showcasing delicate patterns and craftsmanship. Overdoing these elements could easily overwhelm an outfit, making it look more fussy and theatrical than elegant.
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I’m a Language and Literary Studies (Honors) graduate with 11 years of experience in magazine and blog writing and content creation. I’m passionate about storytelling for change and believe in the power of words to make a difference. My writing is thought-provoking, accessible, and engaging, focusing on the Psychology of human behavior, complex social issues, personal experiences, and the latest trends. I’m a wife and a Mom of three.
