The 1970s was a revolutionary era for fashion, reflecting societal shifts and newfound freedoms. This article delves into the iconic fashion trends of the ’70s, from the rise of menswear-inspired looks to the emergence of comfortable sportswear.
Menswear for Women: Power Dressing and Androgynous Styles
The ’70s witnessed women embracing traditionally masculine styles, signifying a move towards greater sexual liberation and empowerment. Bianca Jagger’s iconic white tuxedo at Studio 54 in 1974 epitomized this trend, echoing Yves Saint Laurent’s groundbreaking “Le Smoking” suit from 1966. Trouser suits, once strictly formal attire, became increasingly acceptable for both work and evening wear. These suits were often less form-fitting than previous iterations, embracing a more relaxed and androgynous silhouette (Fig. 8). The 1977 film “Annie Hall,” starring Diane Keaton, further popularized layered menswear looks (Milford-Cottam 39-40), solidifying the trend’s influence. This marked a significant departure from earlier decades when trousers were primarily confined to casual home wear. The incorporation of bold patterns like animal print and luxurious accessories such as fur coats added a touch of glamour to these menswear-inspired ensembles (Figs. 11, 12).
The Wrap Dress: Versatility and Liberation
Alongside the adoption of menswear, the wrap dress emerged as a defining garment of the decade. Diane von Fürstenberg’s 1974 design achieved phenomenal success, selling over five million dresses in just two years (Fig. 13). Its versatility allowed women to seamlessly transition from day to evening. Von Fürstenberg emphasized the dress’s ease of wear, appealing to the modern, empowered woman. As Milford-Cottam notes:
“With long sleeves and at midi length, wrap dresses offered a professional appearance in the office, and could then be dressed up with strappy sandals, jewelry and loosened hair for an evening on the town immediately after work… Von Fürstenberg openly stated that she designed for the empowered woman seeking a simple little dress that whipped off in an instant, and, more usefully, could be swiftly and silently pulled back on in a dark bedroom without waking last night’s sexual conquest” (46).
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The Rise of Sportswear: Comfort and Casual Style
As the decade progressed, comfort became increasingly important. The late ’70s saw the beginnings of a trend that would define the following decade: the rise of sportswear as everyday attire. Designer Norma Kamali played a pivotal role in this shift, introducing sweatshirts, ra-ra skirts, bandeau tops, jumpsuits, leotards, and leggings into the fashion mainstream (Laver 272) (Fig. 14). While these styles would become synonymous with the 1980s, their roots lay firmly in the late seventies.
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Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of 70s Fashion
The 1970s left an indelible mark on fashion history. From the powerful statement of menswear-inspired tailoring to the effortless chic of the wrap dress and the burgeoning comfort of sportswear, the decade’s trends reflected a society undergoing significant change. These iconic styles continue to inspire contemporary fashion, demonstrating the enduring legacy of 70s fashion innovation.
