While popular discourse tends to revisit the trends of the ’80s and ’90s, the 1970s, a decade of flared pants, butterfly collars, and leisure suits, can’t be overlooked as one of the most influential style decades of the 20th century.
It was the era of Studio 54 and The Rolling Stones, Ziggy Stardust, and Bo Derek braids. The 1970s, while wrought with political unrest and civil rights mobilization, is also the decade we have to thank for introducing us to Diane Von Fürstenberg, Halston, and Vivienne Westwood.
Celebrities were maximalists, style icons were born, and the world was just getting to know the creators and entertainers who continue to inspire us today. From Cher and Jane Birkin to Diana Ross and Bianca Jagger, these were some of the biggest style icons of the 1970s.
Diana Ross, 1970.
A case for head-to-toe satin and open sleeves, surely.
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Diana Ross, 1970.
A case for head-to-toe satin and open sleeves, surely.
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Grace Kelly, 1972.
Between the Pucci top, straw bag, and headwrap, a ’70s Grace Kelly is a ‘take me to the beach’ vintage Barbie come to life.
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Olivia Newtown-John, 1970.
Wearing a fur hat and jacket, Olivia Newton-John and her red dungarees are everyday maximalism at its finest.
Jane Birkin, 1977.
Together with Serge Gainsbourg, Jane Birkin’s ’77 airport attire is an ode to her timeless style. White trousers, a light sweater, and blazer complete with the original Birkin bag: a straw tote.
Paul McCartney with wife Linda and their dog Ringo, 1971.
Overlooking their empire of fame, fortune, and English countryside apparel.
Audrey Hepburn, 1975.
Audrey Hepburn at the 47th Annual Academy Awards. The picture of (toned) elegance.
Reg Lancaster/Daily Express/Getty Images
Mick Jagger and Bianca Pérez-Mora Macias, 1971.
Can we all take a moment to please appreciate the future Mrs. Jagger’s outfit? Iconic.
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Farrah Fawcett, 1976.
Everything old is new again. Plaid blazer, oversized pouch, and high waisted jeans. Sound familiar?
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Goldie Hawn, 1970.
Filming “There’s A Girl In My Soup”, Goldie is every bit a ’70s Tinkerbell come to life.
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Cher, Tina Turner, and Kate Smith, 1975.
The trio performing on Cher’s talk show in what can only be described as the outfits we would wear whilst getting married in Vegas.
As a seasoned fashion enthusiast and historian with a profound understanding of the intricacies of style evolution, let me delve into the captivating world of the 1970s, a decade that undeniably left an indelible mark on the 20th-century fashion landscape.
The 1970s witnessed a unique confluence of cultural, political, and artistic movements, making it a rich tapestry of sartorial innovation. Studio 54, The Rolling Stones, Ziggy Stardust, and Bo Derek braids—all emblematic of an era that not only grappled with political unrest and civil rights mobilization but also gave birth to some of the most iconic fashion moments.
Diane Von Fürstenberg, Halston, and Vivienne Westwood emerged as trailblazing designers during this period, revolutionizing the industry with their distinctive contributions. This decade saw a shift towards maximalism, with celebrities becoming style icons and fashion becoming a powerful form of self-expression.
Now, let's dissect the article and unravel the key concepts it explores:
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Studio 54 and The Rolling Stones: Symbolic of the vibrant nightlife and rock culture that defined the '70s, influencing fashion with a bold and glamorous aesthetic.
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Diane Von Fürstenberg, Halston, and Vivienne Westwood: Pioneering designers who shaped '70s fashion, introducing innovative styles and trends.
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Celebrities as Maximalists: The article highlights how celebrities in the 1970s embraced maximalism, pushing the boundaries of fashion expression.
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Style Icons of the 1970s: The mentioned icons, including Cher, Jane Birkin, Diana Ross, and Bianca Jagger, played a pivotal role in shaping the fashion narrative of the decade.
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Specific Fashion Moments: The article references specific outfits and fashion moments, such as Diana Ross in head-to-toe satin, Olivia Newton-John in red dungarees, and Jane Birkin's airport attire.
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Cultural References: The inclusion of references to iconic events like the 47th Annual Academy Awards and Mick Jagger's marriage to Bianca Pérez-Mora Macias adds cultural context to the fashion discourse.
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Photographic Documentation: The use of images, such as those of Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and others, serves as visual evidence of the fashion trends and styles discussed.
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Influence on Contemporary Fashion: The article suggests that elements of '70s fashion, such as plaid blazers, oversized pouches, and high-waisted jeans, continue to influence modern trends.
In essence, the 1970s, with its eclectic mix of cultural influences and iconic personalities, remains a fascinating and pivotal chapter in the history of fashion, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and influence contemporary style.
