Best 70s Fashion Outfits for Men and Women [2024 Guide] (2024)

Do you have a favorite decade? If the answer is yes, there’s a good chance that the 1970s ranks highly for you. After all, there’s a lot to love about the period of time that brought us bell-bottom pants and peasant blouses.

Even if these traditional 1970s-inspired styles don’t appeal to you, it’s possible that many of your favorite fashions of today have this influential decade to thank for their existence.

Here is an overview of some of the most attractive 1970s-inspired trends for both men and women.

70s Fashion Outfits for Men

1. Corduroy Outfits for Men

Corduroy is a unique type of fabric, known for its ribbed texture and durability. Although it has its origins in England in the 18th century, where it was used mostly as country wear, it gained mainstream popularity in the 1970s. While it is most commonly used for pants, corduroy can look just as snazzy when used more subtly, such as in a coat lining.

2. Dandy Outfits for Men

The word “dandy” is not one that you usually hear today, but there was a time when it was a lot more common. At its core, it refers to a well-put-together man who puts thought into his fashion choices. If this sounds like you, you can walk the walk by incorporating small details into your look. To keep it 1970s-inspired, consider simple accessories like a small scarf or gloves.

3. Disco Outfits for Men

We couldn’t write an article about the 1970s fashion scene without writing about disco culture. Disco emerged in the club scene of big cities in the United States at the beginning of the 1970s and was immortalized in classic movies like Saturday Night Fever.

The disco movement had such an impact on American life that it inspired men’s clothing trends of its own, such as the three piece suit, geometric patterns, and — you guessed it — the one and only bell bottom pant.

To add a 21st century flare to 20th century disco style, go for a shirt with a distinct pattern — resist the urge to button it up to the top.

4. Hippie Outfits for Men

The years of the hippies mostly belong to the 1960s, but hippiestyle was still influential well into the 1970s. For the uninitiated, here is the lowdown on hippie style: brightly colored clothing, love jeans, and fringed vests.

Although some of these styles certainly prevailed throughout the 1970s, the decade branched out with their interpretation of hippie culture to include elements that were more in vogue, such as bell bottom pants.

Even if 1960s and 1970s hippie styles do appear to be slightly different, one thing is true: unabridged self-expression is at the core of every outfit.

5. Rock Outfits for Men

With all this talk of disco, it would not be fair to not also talk about some good ‘ole rock-and-roll! The days of Elvis ruling the world may have been over, but rock music was a very big thing in the 1970s, with bands like the Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin being in their prime.

To emulate the fashion associated with the period, look for t-shirts with band logos or political slogans, blue or black denim jackets (bonus points if they’re distressed), and combat boots.

6. Rolled Neck Outfits for Men

A “rolled neck” shirt is a term common in Britain. To an American audience, it is similar to a turtleneck, but instead of featuring one layer of fabric, the neck section of the garment is rolled down.

When worn effectively, this style of sweater or long-sleeve t shirt can be a great way to achieve instant sophistication. Rolled necks look great underneath denim jackets or a blazer, and are one of the few wardrobe pieces that can fit in both in the club and at a boardroom meeting.

70s Fashion Outfits for Women

1. Bright Colors Outfits for Women

We mentioned earlier that bright colors were a favorite within hippie subculture, and maybe the hippies are who we should thank for the vibrant patterns of the 1970s.

The 1970s was a wonderful time for lovers of vivid colors to be dressing themselves, and although it is not a type of clothing that is for everyone, the use of bright colors can make quite the statement if paired correctly. Yellows, oranges (the flagship color of the 1970s), reds, and pinks — they’re all fair game when pulling off this vivacious trend.

2. Disco Outfits for Women

Disco was not only a men’s game! In fact, women had a very big impact on the fashion and overall culture of the time. The 1970s represented another decade where many women were expressing their newfound liberation, and had the bold fashion trends to match.

If you would like to wear an outfit that is disco-inspired, look out for bell-bottom pants, jumpsuits (especially satin jumpsuits), large belt buckles, and large pumps.

Don’t forget to put on bright eye shadow and curl your hair — when it comes to disco fashion, it’s all about the accessories.

3. Hippie Outfits for Women

Women’s trends were also at the heart of the hippie movement. To dress like a hippie, 1970s style, look for floral patterns and prints, loose fitting clothing, matching dress suits, and halter tops. The 1970s might have represented an end of hippie fashion for women, but all of the aforementioned styles were still alive and well at this time —as was hair that went down to your belly button!

4. Rock Outfits for Women

Oh, to live the life of a rockstar — there’s no saying that you can’t, especially if you choose from some of the most popular trends from this time period. 1970s rock styles for women include leather (especially leather boots and jackets), mini skirts, and studded accessories.

For an added bonus, throw in a trench coat or a beret. Don’t forget to turn the record player up high and throw on some Pink Floyd — it’s the only way to completely get in the rock and roll mood.