The 1970s was a decade filled with diverse and unique fashion trends for men. If you want to dress like a 70s male, here are some detailed guidelines and tips to help you achieve that authentic 70s look.
Early 1970s Style – Hippie and Peacock Revolution
Hippie Style: The hippie movement had a significant impact on fashion in the early 70s. Bell-bottom pants were a staple, often made of denim or other fabrics with a wide flare at the bottom. They were usually paired with tie-dye tops, which came in a variety of bright and bold colors. Headbands were also popular, adding a bohemian touch to the look. Embroidered folk designs on shirts or vests were common, along with flowing scarves that could be worn around the neck or tied to bags. To incorporate this style today, you could choose a pair of bell-bottom jeans and pair it with a modern tie-dye shirt or a blouse with embroidered details.
Peacock Revolution: This style was characterized by men wearing bright and bold colors, breaking away from the traditional muted tones. Satin shirts were popular, often in shades like purple, pink, or bright blue. These shirts might have ruffles or other decorative details. Turtlenecks were also in vogue, sometimes made of silk or other soft fabrics. Cuban heeled boots were a common footwear choice, adding height and a touch of glamour. Bell-bottom pants were again a key element, and they were often paired with braided belts. Suits in this style featured bright colors and unusual designs, such as double-breasted corduroy or crushed velvet suits.
Mid-1970s Style – Rock and Glam Rock
In the mid-70s, glam rock became popular, especially in Britain. This style was androgynous and incorporated many traditionally feminine elements. Velvet sports coats were a key piece, often in rich colors like deep red or purple. Shawl-collar tuxedo jackets were also seen, adding a touch of elegance. Frilly and satin shirts were worn underneath, sometimes with bold patterns or prints. Black or tan leather jackets were another option, giving a more edgy look. Silk scarves were tied around the neck or draped over the shoulders, and oversized collars were a prominent feature. Platform shoes were essential to complete the look, adding height and a sense of drama.
Late 1970s Style – Disco Fashion
The late 70s saw the rise of disco fashion, inspired by the vibrant nightlife and music of the era. Three-piece suits were popular, often in bright colors like white, silver, or gold, with wide lapels that added a sense of grandeur. Wide-leg or flared pants were paired with high-rise waistcoats, creating a sleek and stylish silhouette. Aviator sunglasses were a must-have accessory, along with wide and bold neckties. Long, pointed shirt collars were also characteristic of this style, often worn with button-down shirts. To get this look, you could choose a suit with wide lapels and pair it with a colorful shirt and a wide tie. Add some aviator sunglasses and platform shoes to complete the disco-inspired outfit.
70s Fashion Accessories
Sunglasses: Aviator sunglasses were extremely popular in the 70s, especially in the late 70s disco scene. They had large, reflective lenses and a metal frame, giving a cool and stylish look. Wayfarer sunglasses were also seen, with their square frames and bold colors adding a touch of retro charm to any outfit.
Jewelry: Men in the 70s were not afraid to wear jewelry. Chunky necklaces, often made of beads or chains, were popular. Bracelets, both thin and thick, were worn on the wrists, and some men even wore earrings. Rings with large stones or unique designs were also seen, adding a bit of bling to the overall look.
Belts: Braided belts were a common accessory in the 70s, especially during the peacock revolution. They were often made of leather or fabric and added a decorative element to the waistline. Wide belts with large buckles were also popular, especially when paired with high-waisted pants or suits.
Hats: Fedora hats were a popular choice in the 70s, adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. They were often made of felt or straw and came in various colors. Baseball caps were also commonly worn, especially for a more casual look. Cowboy hats were seen in some Western-inspired looks, and they added a sense of ruggedness and charm.
70s Fashion Shoes
Platform Boots: Platform boots were one of the most iconic shoes of the 70s. They had a thick sole and heel, which added significant height to the wearer. These boots were often made of leather or synthetic materials and came in various colors and styles. They were worn with everything from jeans to suits, adding a touch of glamour and drama to the outfit.
Oxford Shoes: Oxford shoes were a classic choice in the 70s, especially for more formal or preppy looks. They had a lace-up design and a sleek silhouette, often made of leather. Oxford shoes were typically worn with suits or dress pants, giving a polished and sophisticated appearance.
Birkenstocks: Birkenstocks were popular for their comfort and casual style. They had a cork sole and leather straps, providing a laid-back and bohemian look. Birkenstocks were often worn with shorts, jeans, or casual pants, and were a favorite among those who embraced the hippie or natural style.
Cowboy Boots: Cowboy boots were seen in both Western-inspired looks and as a fashion statement. They had a pointed toe and a high heel, often with decorative stitching or embossing on the leather. Cowboy boots were worn with jeans or cords, and added a sense of rugged charm to the outfit.
70s Hairstyles
Long Hair: Long hair was a common hairstyle for men in the 70s, especially among those who embraced the hippie or rock culture. Hair was often worn loose and flowing, sometimes with a center part or side part. It could be straight or slightly wavy, and some men added braids or headbands to accessorize their long locks.
Perms: Perms were also popular in the 70s, giving men’s hair a curly or wavy texture. This style was often seen in the glam rock or disco scenes, where voluminous and styled hair was in vogue. Perms could be tight or loose curls, depending on personal preference.
Facial Hair: Facial hair was common in the 70s, with mustaches and beards being popular choices. Mustaches were often thick and bushy, while beards could range from short and neatly trimmed to full and shaggy. Some men even combined mustaches and beards for a more rugged look.
Colors and Patterns of the 70s
Colors: Bright and bold colors were a hallmark of 70s fashion. Colors like yellow, orange, blue, pink, red, purple, and green were widely used and often combined in unexpected ways. Earthy tones such as brown, tan, and olive green were also popular, especially in more natural or hippie-inspired looks. In the disco era, metallic colors like silver, gold, and bronze were in vogue, adding a touch of glamour and shine to the outfits.
Patterns: Patterns were also a big part of 70s fashion. Tie-dye was extremely popular, with its psychedelic swirls and bright colors. Paisley prints were seen on shirts, scarves, and even suits, adding a sense of luxury and exoticism. Geometric patterns, such as squares, triangles, and circles, were used on knitwear, shirts, and accessories. Stripes were also common, especially in the form of rugby stripes on shirts or pinstripes on suits.
In conclusion, dressing like a 70s male requires attention to detail and a willingness to embrace the bold and unique styles of the decade. By incorporating elements such as bell-bottom pants, satin shirts, platform shoes, and bold accessories, you can create a look that is both retro and stylish. Whether you’re going for a hippie, glam rock, or disco-inspired outfit, the key is to have fun and experiment with different combinations to find the look that suits you best. So, go ahead and channel your inner 70s icon and rock that vintage style with confidence!
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