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21 Best 1970s Fashion Trends Making a Comeback

These trends are still far out.

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actress and singer diana ross, wearing a pinstripe skirtsuit with a white, tie front blouse, being interviewed in new york
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It’s no secret that the 1970s were chock-full of fashion icons. Just look at vintage photos of pop culture mavens like Stevie Nicks and Donna Summer for that sought-after boho-chic look. Or even stars like David Bowie and Aretha Franklin for those now-famous of-the-decade patterns. In big and small ways, there’s a whole lineup of '70s fashion trends making a comeback.

Take wide-leg bottoms, for instance. Once replaced by the skinny jean, wide-leg silhouettes have made a major resurgence in the last few years. And we don’t just mean mom jeans. We mean those groovy horseshoe-style barrel jeans that everyone’s wearing.

But that’s not all. From hot pants to paisley, there’s a slew of trends that are back and totally slammin’. Here's a look at the trends making their way back from the 1970s.

1

Bell Bottom Jeans

bell bottoms
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Once a staple of 1970s fashion, bell bottom jeans are known for their iconic flared silhouette. While they’ve gone in and out of style since the decade, the look is back with a vengeance.

2

Tie-Dye

tie dye
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Tie-dye may still be a fun backyard activity, but it also has major fashion potential. Pair the patterned t-shirt with a pair of loose-fitted jeans and loafers to bring it into the 21st century.

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3

Hot Pants

hot pants
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These days, the shorter the better. But we can thank the 1970s for making short shorts mainstream. Wear them in a set with a matching full-length top to make them appropriate for any outing.

4

Ponchos

ponchos
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Both stylish and practical, ponchos are the perfect in-office accessory for staying on-trend in those drafty work buildings. Whether you go solid or choose a funky pattern, a poncho is the perfect cozy addition to any ensemble.

RELATED: Fashion Trends from the 1960s That Are Making a Comeback

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5

Maxi Skirt

maxi skirt
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Will a maxi skirt ever go out of style? Maybe, but not for the foreseeable future. Stylish in practically any color and pattern, this closet staple perfectly pairs with a t-shirt and practical pumps.

6

Corduroy

corduroy
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Corduroy jackets were leading the charge of fashion trends in the ‘70s. But now the fabric is best worn in the form of accessories. Hats and bags are the perfect opportunity to implement this blast from the past in your everyday wardrobe.

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7

Fringe

fringe
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Fringe may have been all the rage 50 years ago, but it’s so back. Elevate any outfit with a fringe jacket, bag, or even skirt to bring an outfit from drab to fab.

8

Tracksuits

tracksuits
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Athleisure has taken the fashion industry by storm in recent years. And tracksuits have become a natural addition to the trend for their comfortable yet fashionable appeal. Whether you wear them to get in a good sweat or run those errands, you’re sure to get compliments on this matchy-matchy outfit.

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9

Wrap Dresses

wrap dress
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The wrap dress was invented in the early ‘70s, and women have been rocking them ever since. Still a wardrobe necessity today, investing in this robe-style piece is never a bad idea.

RELATED: How to Wear Y2K Fashion Without Looking Dated

10

Turtlenecks

turtlenecks
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Your Fall and Winter wardrobe wouldn’t be complete without a trusty turtleneck. Wear them alongside a good pair of jeans and some booties and you’ve got your new cold-weather uniform.

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11

Chunky Belts

chunky belt
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A statement belt could very well be the accessory that your outfit is missing. Wear it with a pair of groovy jeans or even layered over a tight-fitting thermal to elevate any look.

12

Wide Leg Pants

wide leg trousers
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These days, the comfier the better. And thanks to wide leg pants, you can look chic and feel cozy all at the same time. Style them with an oversized t-shirt and dainty shoes for that effortless cool girl look.

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13

Jumpsuits

jumpsuits
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Jumpsuits are a fantastic, low-lift way to always look put together. Pair them with your favorite go-to accessories and you’re golden.

14

Suede

suede jacket
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In case you didn’t know, all the cool girls still wear suede. Whether you opt for a western jacket or chic purse that features the fabric, the buttery soft texture is sure to turn heads.

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15

Platform Shoes

platform shoes
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Platform shoes may have been far out back in the day, but they’re here to stay. Add height to any outfit with a minimal or upscale rendition of the beloved accessory.

RELATED: Vintage Old Hollywood Staples Your Wardrobe Needs, Per a Stylist

16

Velvet

velvet
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Another staple fabric of the decade, velvet was used extensively in both fashion and home decor. Now, a pop of the fabric here or there is all you need to stand out.

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17

Paisley Print

paisley print
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Paisley isn’t just for your grandmother’s favorite tablecloth. Implement the pattern in subtle ways for that added vintage feel.

18

Pantsuits

striped trouser suit
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Ladies, where would we be without the power suit? Sophisticated, sleek, and chic, you can never go wrong with a good pantsuit.

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19

Graphic Tees

graphic tees
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Graphic tees have been a go-to grunge style for decades. But did you know their roots extend to the 1970s? Pair your favorite printed tee with a good pair of jeans and sneakers for a relaxed look.

20

Statement Necklace

statement necklace
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A statement necklace can bring an otherwise boring outfit right out of the dumps. Go the oversized route by wearing a necklace with chunky elements that can pop against a minimal ensemble.

RELATED: Accessories From the 1940s That Will Elevate Your Wardrobe

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Sasha Monet Wayman
Freelance Writer

Sasha is a freelance writer who covers fashion, beauty, wellness, and celebrity news. You can find her work in publications such as E! News, Teen Vogue, Bustle, V Magazine, Byrdie, and Essence GU, to name a few. When she isn’t surfing the web for the next viral beauty trend, you can find her hunched over her computer writing about it.

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actress and singer diana ross, wearing a pinstripe skirtsuit with a white, tie front blouse, being interviewed in new york
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