The 1970s marked a significant shift in Bollywood fashion, moving away from the styles of the previous decades and embracing a diverse range of influences. This era saw a fascinating blend of traditional Indian garments with emerging Western trends, creating a unique and iconic style. From elegantly casual looks to extravagant party outfits and everyday Indian attire, 70s Bollywood Fashion was incredibly versatile and inspiring.
Iconic films like Sholay, Kabhi Kabhie, Don, and Seeta Aur Geeta defined this decade, and the leading ladies such as Hema Malini, Dimple Kapadia, Rekha, and Zeenat Aman became synonymous with 70s fashion. These Bollywood divas captivated audiences not only with their performances but also with their incredibly stylish and trend-setting ensembles.
The 70s Bollywood style was characterized by mini skirts, playful polka dots, chic crop tops, and sarees in a spectrum of vibrant colors and designs. This era was truly a golden age for fashion experimentation and self-expression in Bollywood.
Today, in 2023, we are witnessing a resurgence of interest in this glamorous era, revisiting and reimagining the iconic styles of 70s Bollywood fashion.
Bell Sleeves and Flared Pants: The Defining Silhouettes
Bell sleeves were an absolute essential in 70s fashion, becoming a signature element for both men and women. Women’s dresses and men’s button-down shirts frequently featured these dramatic, flared sleeves. The popularity of bell sleeves was so immense that we’re even seeing a revival of this style in contemporary fashion.
Paired perfectly with bell sleeves were flared trousers, another defining hallmark of 1970s Bollywood style. Actresses were frequently seen sporting these flared pants, creating a long and lean silhouette. Men also embraced flared bottoms, often pairing them with floral or denim tops to complete the quintessential 70s look.
For a 70s Bollywood themed party, consider a vibrant top in a bold color like red paired with denim flared pants. To enhance the retro vibe, incorporate accessories like oversized sunglasses and platform shoes.
Anarkalis: Elegant Grace and Traditional Charm
The Anarkali, a timeless Indian garment, held a significant place in 70s Bollywood fashion. Known for their elegance and flowing silhouette, Anarkalis were perfect for formal occasions and celebratory events. While the Anarkali’s on-screen debut can be traced back to the 1960s film Mughal-e-Azam, the 70s saw a modified version become popular, with hemlines typically falling just below the knee.
These knee-length Anarkalis were often reserved for actresses’ captivating dance performances, adding a dramatic flair to twirl-worthy, scene-stealing moments in films. Fabrics like net and silk were predominantly used to create these stunning ensembles, emphasizing the luxurious and graceful appeal of the Anarkali. This trend continued to influence Indian fashion well into the 1980s.
Androgyny Fashion: Blurring Gender Lines with Style
The 1970s was undeniably a decade of groundbreaking innovation in Bollywood style, particularly in embracing androgynous fashion. Drawing inspiration from 70s outfits for men, this trend saw a delightful blurring of gender lines. Both men and women confidently sported bow ties, button-down shirts, and flared trousers, showcasing a more unisex approach to style.
This era also marked a shift in the portrayal of women in Indian cinema. The ’70s Bollywood heroine was depicted as bold, independent, self-assured, and yet undeniably feminine. This evolving image was reflected in the androgynous fashion trend, empowering women to experiment with traditionally masculine styles.
To achieve this androgynous 70s Bollywood look, opt for a denim button-up shirt paired with flared pants made from comfortable fabrics like linen or cotton. This combination captures the essence of the era’s progressive and stylish androgyny.
Bold Disco Outfits: Embracing Glamour and Sparkle
No exploration of 70s Bollywood fashion is complete without acknowledging the dazzling world of disco outfits. The disco era heavily influenced Bollywood, bringing with it a wave of glamour and sparkle.
Bollywood actresses of the 1970s fearlessly embraced flamboyant headbands, shimmering sequined skirts, and statement chokers. Their ability to effortlessly rock these bold looks remains iconic. Actresses like Helen pioneered this style, paving the way for a new era of on-screen glamour. Even before the term “item number” became commonplace, many actresses had already captivated audiences with their mesmerizing dance performances and incredibly stylish, often disco-inspired, wardrobes.
To recreate this bold disco look, choose a sequined fabric in a vibrant color like yellow or gold. Pair it with statement accessories and embrace the era’s over-the-top glamour.
Floppy Hats: A Touch of Western Chic
Inspired by Hollywood and broader Western fashion trends, floppy hats became a major accessory in 70s Bollywood fashion. These stylish and often colorful hats became an integral part of every fashionable actress’s wardrobe, effortlessly complementing a variety of outfits.
Floppy hats were typically crafted from felt and adorned with earthy and nature-inspired motifs like flowers and vines. Some preferred a more minimalist approach, opting for hats embellished with simple ribbon bows. Luxurious fabrics like silk and satin were used to create glossy ribbons, adding a touch of elegance to these popular 70s accessories.
Saree Fashion: Garish Colors and Modern Silhouettes
Saree fashion in 70s Bollywood style took a bold turn, favoring vibrant, sometimes garish, colors and eye-catching patterns. Sharmila Tagore, a timeless beauty of Bollywood, is widely credited with popularizing the trend of the see-through saree, adding a touch of sensuality to this traditional garment.
Beyond sheer sarees, 70s saree blouses also evolved. High-necked, short-sleeved blouse designs became a popular pairing with sarees. Another notable 70s saree trend was the paachwari, or five-yard saree, characterized by a shorter length and a minimal pallu, offering a more modern and practical take on the traditional saree drape.
FAQ
What accessories are essential for a 70s Bollywood costume?
To perfectly recreate 70s Bollywood fashion for a retro party, ensure your costume includes essential accessories such as bracelets, necklaces or chokers, and headbands. Platform heels and footwear will further enhance the authenticity of your 70s inspired look.
Is 70s style making a comeback?
Fashion trends are indeed cyclical, and the 70s style is undeniably experiencing a significant resurgence. The fashion landscape of today reflects the comeback of 70s fashion elements, such as flared pants, polka dot prints, front-tie shirts, and sheer fabric sarees. It’s clear that 70s fashion is making a major comeback in the contemporary world, influencing modern styles and trends.
