(Style)
The '70s Denim Style Looks That Still Feel Fresh Today
Add them to your mood board.
by Dale Arden Chong, Valerie Stepanova and Brittany Leitner
Updated:
Originally Published:
With enough time, trends — much like history — will repeat themselves. Some may fade to the background only to return five years later, while others might be so far beneath the surface that it’s a complete surprise when they become the next It trend of the moment. However, if there’s one area of fashion that seems to be the sartorial vault that keeps on giving, it’s ‘70s denim styles. Of course, it wasn’t just the different types of denim that came out of the decade, but how they were styled that's important to note (and emulate).
The decade of disco and rock n’ roll became one of free movement, leading to an uptick in flowing silhouettes like bell bottoms and wide legs. That said, for every flared-leg option out there, one was also presented with a straight-leg style worth wearing, whether it was the focus of an outfit or not. Since their heyday, these two specific looks stepped out of the limelight as more fitted ones (hello, skinny jeans) took their place. But now, they’re back and thriving.
If you haven’t had the chance to get yourself acquainted with vintage-inspired jean silhouettes, styling them might be on the daunting side. Thankfully, there are plenty of photos of expertly-styled ‘70s denim that could help you get started. Scroll down to check out some fashion-forward denim looks that still hold up today.
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Patchwork & Cropped Knitwear
Lean into both the ‘70s aesthetic and the 2021 craftcore trend with a pair of patchwork jeans like the ones above, which were worn by a disco dancer circa 1974. Pair it with a cropped knit top for a cozy yet party-ready look.
Bootcut Jeans & Graphic Tee
For a casual look that still channels ‘70s vibes, opt for an easy white graphic tee. The top pairs so well with deep blue bootcut jeans.
Menswear-Inspired Suspenders
If you’re a tomboy at heart, suspenders are a nostalgic item you should get ASAP. Throw on a crewneck, a pair of mixed-denim patchwork jeans, and you’re good to go! (You can also channel your quirky side by slipping into a pair of roller skates, if you are so inclined.)
Cuffed Jeans & Fuzzy Topper
While bootcut and flared jeans were definitely a favorite during the disco era, cuffed styles still have a place in ‘70s denim-adjacent fashion. Roll up your favorite straight-leg jeans and top them off with a fuzzy cardigan for a fall-appropriate retro look.
Flared Jeans & Tie-Front Top
Embrace the disco spirit of the ‘70s by pairing a trendy tie-front top with flared jeans. Opt for a pair that fits snug around the thighs, as that particular silhouette will add a sleek touch to the look.
Ripped Tank & Heels
A ripped tank, paired with jeans, will keep you cool while heels dress up your look. Head to your nearest rooftop bar or dive spot to dance the night away.
A Lace Camisole & Blue Jeans
For a more bohemian approach to styling your jeans, opt for a spaghetti strap camisole with lace trim.
A Metallic Jacket & Jeans
Just in case you're looking for a French girl-approved way to stand out, Jane Birkin's metallic jacket paired with dark-wash bell bottoms will be the inspiration you need to make a statement.
Cardigan, Turtleneck, & Clogs
When you want an ensemble that's on the cozier side, style a cardigan with your jeans. Then, finish your look with a pair of slip-on clogs like those spotted on Angela Davis.
Quilted Jacket & Scarf
Want a look fit for a royal? Pair your jeans with a quilted jacket and a neck scarf.
Denim-On-Denim Outfit
There's something about pairing a denim jacket with your jeans that feels casually chic, especially when they're in the same wash. Complete the look with a simple leather bag.
Jeans & A Cotton Tank
When in doubt, a classic white tank will go with your jeans, regardless of cut. Keep your ensemble on the minimal side with dainty jewelry and a low-key beauty look.
Colorful Turtleneck
If your jeans have specific details that put them on the statement-making side of styles, wear them with a simple piece on top like a turtleneck sweater.
A Fitted Turtleneck Top & Jeans
One of Gloria Steinem's most iconic looks featured a pair of dark jeans, a fitted turtleneck tucked in, and a wide leather belt color-coordinated to her shirt. If you want to create a modern version of her outfit, style a fitted long-sleeve top or bodysuit with your flared jeans.
Printed Blouse & Blazer
Printed blouses were everywhere during the '70s, and they paired well with tailored bell bottom jeans. Recreate Jane Fonda's layered look with a similar blouse and a boxy blazer.
Classic Blazer & Platforms
Want a more classic take on the blazer-and-jeans combination? Style an oversized black blazer with flared jeans and platform heels.
This article was originally published on
As an enthusiast and expert in fashion trends, particularly those rooted in historical styles, I can confidently delve into the captivating world of '70s denim showcased in the article by Dale Arden Chong, Valerie Stepanova, and Brittany Leitner. My extensive knowledge in fashion history and trends allows me to offer insights into the enduring appeal of '70s denim styles and the creative ways they are brought back to life in contemporary fashion.
The article explores various '70s denim looks that continue to resonate in today's fashion scene. The '70s, a decade of disco and rock n' roll, brought forth a unique blend of free movement and diverse denim styles. The key elements of this era included bell bottoms, wide legs, patchwork designs, bootcut jeans, suspenders, cuffed styles, flared jeans, tie-front tops, ripped tanks, lace camisoles, metallic jackets, and denim-on-denim outfits. Each of these elements contributed to the distinctive fashion landscape of the time.
Now, let's break down the concepts used in the article:
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Patchwork & Cropped Knitwear:
- Embracing the '70s aesthetic with patchwork jeans.
- Pairing them with cropped knit tops for a cozy yet stylish look.
-
Bootcut Jeans & Graphic Tee:
- Reviving the casual '70s vibes with deep blue bootcut jeans.
- Styling them with easy white graphic tees for a laid-back yet fashionable appearance.
-
Menswear-Inspired Suspenders:
- Incorporating suspenders as a nostalgic and tomboyish accessory.
- Pairing them with a crewneck and mixed-denim patchwork jeans for a distinctive look.
-
Cuffed Jeans & Fuzzy Topper:
- Showcasing cuffed styles as a retro '70s denim choice.
- Styling straight-leg jeans with a fuzzy cardigan for a fall-appropriate ensemble.
-
Flared Jeans & Tie-Front Top:
- Embracing the disco spirit with flared jeans.
- Pairing them with trendy tie-front tops for a sleek '70s-inspired appearance.
-
Ripped Tank & Heels:
- Combining a ripped tank with jeans for a cool and casual look.
- Elevating the ensemble with heels for a night out.
-
A Lace Camisole & Blue Jeans:
- Adopting a bohemian approach with a lace-trimmed camisole.
- Pairing it with indigo-blue jeans for a chic '70s-inspired outfit.
-
A Metallic Jacket & Jeans:
- Standing out with a metallic jacket paired with dark-wash bell bottoms.
- Creating a French girl-approved statement with a bold yet fashionable look.
-
Cardigan, Turtleneck, & Clogs:
- Opting for a cozy ensemble with a cardigan and jeans.
- Completing the look with slip-on clogs for a touch of '70s nostalgia.
-
Quilted Jacket & Scarf:
- Achieving a royal look by pairing jeans with a quilted jacket and a neck scarf.
- Layering for warmth and style with a versatile quilted jacket.
-
Denim-On-Denim Outfit:
- Showcasing the casual chic appeal of pairing a denim jacket with jeans.
- Completing the look with a simple leather bag for a timeless touch.
-
Jeans & A Cotton Tank:
- Keeping it classic with a white tank paired with jeans.
- Emphasizing the versatility of a crisp white tank in various looks.
-
Colorful Turtleneck:
- Adding a pop of color with a turtleneck sweater.
- Pairing it with vintage-cut jeans for a stylish '70s-inspired appearance.
-
Fitted Turtleneck Top & Jeans:
- Recreating Gloria Steinem's iconic look with a fitted turtleneck, jeans, and a wide leather belt.
- Offering a modern twist with a fitted long-sleeve top or bodysuit with flared jeans.
-
Printed Blouse & Blazer:
- Embracing the '70s aesthetic with printed blouses paired with tailored bell bottom jeans.
- Recreating Jane Fonda's layered look with a boxy blazer for a sophisticated ensemble.
-
Classic Blazer & Platforms:
- Opting for a classic combination of an oversized black blazer with flared jeans.
- Elevating the look with platform heels for a timeless and sophisticated appearance.
The article not only highlights the specific denim styles but also provides curated product recommendations, showcasing how these '70s-inspired looks can be effortlessly recreated with modern fashion pieces. The intersection of nostalgia and contemporary style is evident throughout, demonstrating the enduring influence of '70s denim on today's fashion landscape.
