Anything Goes '70's

Ah, the '70's. What seemed like a disorganized confluence of styles actually became an era of wear what suits you and don't be driven by fashion trends. Designers are still a very big part of the clothing scene now, but the 1970's brought on a different view toward how much they determine what we wear. If I look better in a midi or pants, then I should wear what looks good and I feel comfortable in, even if minis are the current style. The '70's gave us ready-to-wear, casual business clothes and so much more. It didn't happen all at once, nor did it take hold immediately, but a slow process began during this decade.

The '70's began as an extension of the '60's. Hippie style was still big. Some bell bottoms got wider as the rise (the distance from the top of the leg to the waistband) dropped to as little as 4 inches (think bikini :0) ). Peasant style was very popular. The mod style also continued well into the '70's.
Floral peasant top

Strictly Mod shirt

As the decade progressed, subtle changes or extensions crept in. Jumpsuits were very popular, often for night wear in discos. These were one piece zip front outfits, in all types of fabrics and colors. Polyester became the material of choice for these "catsuits" and the leisure suits for men. We have one jumpsuit currently in Heffy's store, very indicative of the style:

Perfect for dancing
They are still "in", we can't seem to keep them very long before someone snatches them up! Empire waist dresses, halter tops on shirts and dresses, and floral prints continued the popularity started in the '60's. Skirt lengths were all over the place as minis, midis and maxis prevailed. Here are 2 very '70's dresses:
Empire waist peasant maxi dress

Halter maxi

The disco suit look for men led to 3 piece suits being popular, with ever widening ties. The suits had wide lapels and flared pants. Some were in some pretty wild color combos and prints. It's no wonder a lot of people won't admit they ever wore '70's fashions! There just aren't many guys who say they ever owned a leisure suit or wore a 5 inch wide tie, but the pictures tell a different story. I really get a kick out of it! We lived it and of course we wore the current styles. Chunky shoes with platforms were a must for men and women for day and night wear.

Later in the '70's, caftans, muumuus, and ethnic prints and styles were big. People traveled more and fell in love with the clothing in other countries. Pants and pantsuits for women were seen everywhere. It was finally okay to wear pants for almost any occasion. Mix and match separates were available for the first time and helped make dressing easier. Many of the trends brought forth in the '70's are still around today-and thankfully some of them aren't!