I am not saying that you must be born before the 2000s to recognize that the 1970s were a major fashion moment.
The decade gave us a wide range of iconic styles, from business clothes like wrap dresses and suiting to bell bottoms and jumpsuits.
It has covered everything from disco fever to Daisy Dukes.
Fashion and beauty trends of this era were truly fabulous.
Free-flowing capes and kaftans were as common as crop tops and clogs.
Style icons ranged from Gloria Steinem to Diana Ross, which is why ’70s outfits are still popular Halloween costumes — there’s something for everyone.
Let’s get inspired by some celebrities from the 1970s showcasing the most recognizable trends of the time.
Many of these styles are back in vogue and available to shop today, so you can rock your ’70s-inspired look any time of the year.
Flared Jeans
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I have seen a lot of trends coming and going, but flared jeans are just timeless.
It is the most enduring style from the 1970s.
These jeans strike a perfect balance between bell bottoms and bootcut, as exemplified by Farrah Fawcett.
If you’re seeking an easy ’70s outfit for Halloween, start with a great pair of flares and build from there.
Batwing Sleeves
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For the ultimate ‘70s outfit, you can think about channeling Stevie Nicks, the original witchy woman.
The Fleetwood Mac singer loved billowing tops, crochet lace shawls, breezy, kimonos, and dramatic capes.
You can even choose a fluttery top to pair with a maxi skirt and fitted flares, pair a tambourine and a top hat, and you’ll embody the Black Magic Woman.
Aviator Sunglasses
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If you want to put together a ’70s outfit quickly, choose an accessory you might already have: aviator sunglasses.
Originally designed by Ray-Ban for Air Force pilots in the 1930s, aviators were everywhere in the 1970s, worn by both men and women.
Channel Gloria Steinem, the feminist activist and founder of Ms. Magazine, by pairing your aviators with a turtleneck, jeans, and a center part.
Simple, yet iconic.
Wrap Dress
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You likely already have one of these timeless wardrobe staples in your closet.
The wrap dress, popularized by Diane von Furstenberg in the 1970s, became a workwear essential for women.
Its colorful patterns and extremely flattering clothing made this ’70s outfit collection so popular that you can still buy one today, often still designed by DVF herself.
Daisy Dukes
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Though the name comes from the Dukes of Hazzard character, the iconic short shorts also have rock-star origins.
Blondie singer Debbie Harry famously wore them, making them a blend of country and rock and roll.
Crop Tops
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If you think Britney Spears made crop tops popular, think again.
In the ’70s, action star Pam Grier, known for films like Coffey and Foxy Brown, often wore crop tops and halter necklines.
To channel Foxy Brown, pair a colorful button-up shirt with oversized lapels and low-rise flare jeans.
Tie the shirt just below your bust, add a gold chain and hoop earrings, and you’re all set.
Crochet
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Crochet designs, especially the Granny Square, were huge in the ’70s.
This simple knit pattern could be made by anyone and turned into hats, vests, minidresses, and tiny tanks.
Before Cher even became well-known for her elaborate costumes, crochet was a staple in her wardrobe.
Corduroy
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Corduroy was everywhere in the ’70s, from skirts and bell bottoms to jackets and waistcoats, like those worn by actress Jane Seymour.
You can go for a matching set or style corduroy pants like you would jeans to give any outfit a retro feel.
Fringe Benefits
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In the 1970s, fringe was popular on all kinds of clothing.
Cher rocked fringe on her stage dresses, while others, like Jane Fonda, went for a more casual look with a fringed top and suede miniskirt.
Add any fringed item to your outfit, and you’re instantly channeling the ’70s.
Pleasant Peasant
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The peasant styles of the ’70s were anything but plain.
Voluminous dresses and blouses available with balloon sleeves, often cinched at the waist, were popular, as seen on actresses like Sophia Loren.
To complete the look, pair a billowy blouse with a flowy, floor-length skirt and a wide leather belt.
For a modern twist, try flared jeans and colorful accessories.
You really can’t go wrong with this style.
Jumpsuits
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For a one-piece ’70s outfit, jumpsuits are perfect. From basic boiler suits to glamorous disco jumpsuits, the options are endless.
Jerry Hall modeled a casual version on a 1975 runway with a tie belt and hat.
For a dance-floor look, go for something metallic and low-cut, paired with platform shoes and a sparkly clutch.
Boho Beauty
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Love Story star Ali MacGraw rocked all the trends of the ’70s, from turtlenecks and knee-high boots to miniskirts and fringe.
She was also known for wearing whimsical printed blouses and dresses.
If you want a boho-inspired ’70s outfit, find a colorful, printed and beautiful cotton dress with flowy sleeves.
Pair it with silver chains, lace-up sandals, and large pendants.
Don’t forget a chic choker—an essential ’70s accessory for any style.
Disco Diva
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No ’70s outfit list is complete without paying tribute to the Queen of Disco, Donna Summer.
You can’t overdo the glitz and glam for this look.
Think ultra-sparkly outfits that may have even inspired Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour attire.
The Provocateur
If you’re aiming for a Studio 54 vibe, channel ’70s disco star and model Grace Jones.
Combine lingerie with luxurious embellishments like feathers, chainmail, and chunky jewelry to create this look.
For the full Grace Jones effect, dramatic eyeliner is a must.
Hats, Hats, and More Hats
The 1970s were one of the last decades where hats were a staple with every outfit.
Try any style except a baseball cap, which is a more recent trend.
Pair your hat with a simple turtleneck, jeans, and boots outfit, like Yoko Ono.
She wore everything from pageboy caps to berets and pork-pie hats.
Keep your hair flowy and undone for added effect.
Jackie O. Sunglasses
Oversized sunglasses, known as “Jackie O. sunglasses” thanks to the former first lady, were a must-have for any ’70s outfit.
Jackie loved styles by Nina Ricci and Ray-Ban, but any large, bold sunglasses can help you achieve this iconic look.
To complete your ’70s accessories, add a silk scarf tied around your neck, handbag, or hair for a chic, understated look.
