The 1970s was a decade of bold experimentation across fashion, film, music, and culture. Vogue declared, “There are no rules in the fashion game, now,” and innovators like David Bowie and Blondie embraced this freedom, creating iconic looks that continue to inspire today. This era’s influence reverberated through the 80s and beyond. Let’s delve into the style legacies of 32 of the most influential 70s Fashion Icons.
Halston: The Architect of American Glamour
Halston revolutionized American fashion with his minimalist designs and luxurious fabrics. From Jackie Kennedy’s iconic pillbox hat to the wardrobes of Elizabeth Taylor and Liza Minnelli, his creations epitomized effortless chic. His impact on ready-to-wear continues to resonate in contemporary fashion.
Patti Smith: Punk Poet Laureate
Poet and punk rock icon Patti Smith emerged in 1975 with her debut album, Horses. Her androgynous style, rebellious spirit, and raw lyrics challenged conventional notions of femininity and cemented her status as a cultural force. The Patti Smith Group’s influence on music and fashion endures.
Charlotte Rampling: The Enigmatic Muse
Charlotte Rampling’s career, spanning from the ’70s to the 2020s, showcases her timeless appeal. From her early roles in films like The Night Porter to her recent appearance in Dune, her captivating presence and sophisticated style have made her a enduring icon.
Pat Cleveland: Trailblazing Supermodel
Pat Cleveland shattered barriers as one of the first Black supermodels to achieve international recognition. A muse of Halston, she graced countless runways and magazine covers, paving the way for greater diversity in the fashion industry. Her influence extended beyond modeling, as she also pursued a career in design.
Blondie: Punk Meets New Wave Chic
Blondie’s frontwoman, Debbie Harry, embodied the rebellious spirit of punk while exuding a unique brand of feminine cool. Her platinum blonde hair, edgy style, and powerful vocals made her a music and fashion icon, influencing generations of artists. Blondie’s impact on the New Wave music scene is undeniable.
Donna Summer: Queen of Disco
Donna Summer reigned supreme as the “Queen of Disco,” her music defining the era’s dance floors. Hits like “Love to Love You Baby” and “Last Dance” showcased her incredible vocal range and cemented her place in music history. Her glamorous stage presence further solidified her icon status.
Stevie Nicks: The Enchanting Songstress
Stevie Nicks’ ethereal vocals and mystical stage presence captivated audiences as a member of Fleetwood Mac. Her signature bohemian style, with flowing dresses, shawls, and platform boots, became synonymous with 1970s fashion. Nicks’ songwriting and unique aesthetic continue to inspire.
Cheryl Tiegs: The All-American Supermodel
Often dubbed “the first supermodel,” Cheryl Tiegs graced countless magazine covers, including multiple Sports Illustrated swimsuit issues. Her all-American beauty and girl-next-door charm made her a household name. Tiegs’ influence on the modeling industry is undeniable.
Jerry Hall: Defining the “Tall Blonde” Look
Jerry Hall’s statuesque figure and flowing blonde hair epitomized the “tall blonde” look that dominated the 1970s fashion scene. Her numerous magazine covers and high-profile relationship with Mick Jagger solidified her status as a style icon. Hall’s impact on the modeling world extended beyond the decade.
Anjelica Huston: From Model to Hollywood Royalty
Before achieving Hollywood acclaim, Anjelica Huston was a successful model, favored by designers like Halston. Her striking beauty and unique style transitioned seamlessly to the big screen, establishing her as a prominent actress and fashion icon. Huston’s career continues to flourish in both film and television.
Diane Keaton: The Quirky Style Icon
Diane Keaton’s menswear-inspired style, characterized by tailored suits, hats, and ties, set her apart in the 1970s. Her unique fashion choices, coupled with her acclaimed acting career, solidified her status as a true original. Keaton’s influence on fashion continues to inspire.
Jane Seymour: Bohemian Beauty
Jane Seymour’s breakout role in the James Bond film Live and Let Die showcased her stunning beauty and bohemian style. Her long, flowing hair and effortless fashion choices made her an instant icon. Seymour’s acting career has spanned decades.
Joan Jett: The Rebel Rocker
Joan Jett’s rebellious spirit and rock and roll attitude were reflected in her edgy style. Her leather jackets, chokers, and signature shag haircut made her a fashion icon for a generation. Jett’s music and style continue to inspire.
Diane Von Furstenberg: The Wrap Dress Revolutionary
Diane Von Furstenberg liberated women with her iconic wrap dress, a versatile and flattering design that became a staple of 1970s wardrobes. Her entrepreneurial spirit and innovative designs transformed the fashion landscape. Von Furstenberg remains a prominent figure in the industry.
Grace Jones: Androgynous Icon
Grace Jones defied convention with her androgynous style, bold makeup, and fearless attitude. Her unique aesthetic and powerful presence made her a muse for designers and artists alike. Jones’ influence on fashion and music transcends generations.
Bianca Jagger: Studio 54 Royalty
Bianca Jagger’s glamorous style and presence at Studio 54 made her a fixture of the 1970s New York social scene. Her sophisticated fashion choices and association with the iconic nightclub cemented her status as a style icon. Jagger continues to be involved in various philanthropic endeavors.
Beverly Johnson: Breaking Barriers in Vogue
Beverly Johnson made history as the first Black model to grace the cover of American Vogue. Her groundbreaking achievement paved the way for greater diversity and representation in the fashion industry. Johnson’s impact extends beyond modeling, as she is also an author and businesswoman.
Joni Mitchell: The Folk Goddess
Joni Mitchell’s poetic lyrics and folk-inspired style resonated with a generation. Her introspective music and effortless fashion choices made her a cultural icon. Mitchell’s influence on music and songwriting continues to this day.
Sophia Loren: Timeless Glamour
Sophia Loren’s captivating beauty and classic style transcended decades. Her glamorous gowns, voluptuous figure, and dramatic makeup defined a generation of Hollywood glamour. Loren’s influence on beauty and style remains timeless.
Pam Grier: Blaxploitation Queen
Pam Grier’s powerful performances in blaxploitation films made her a cultural icon. Her strong on-screen presence and bold fashion choices challenged stereotypes and empowered a generation. Grier’s influence on film and culture continues to be celebrated.
Andy Warhol: Pop Art Pioneer
Andy Warhol’s pop art creations and unique personal style made him a defining figure of the 1970s. His influence extended beyond the art world, as he became a prominent figure in New York’s vibrant nightlife scene. Warhol’s legacy as a pop culture icon endures.
David Bowie: The Chameleon of Rock
David Bowie’s constantly evolving personas and groundbreaking music made him a true original. His flamboyant costumes, androgynous style, and fearless experimentation pushed boundaries and inspired countless artists. Bowie’s influence on music and fashion is immeasurable.
Farrah Fawcett: Hair Icon
Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hairstyle became a defining look of the 1970s. Her role in Charlie’s Angels and her all-American beauty made her a pop culture phenomenon. Fawcett’s influence on hair and beauty trends is undeniable.
Iman: Supermodel and Muse
Iman’s striking beauty and elegant style captivated the fashion world. Her work with leading designers and her numerous magazine covers established her as a supermodel icon. Iman’s influence on fashion and beauty extends beyond the runway.
Olivia Newton-John: Grease Lightning
Olivia Newton-John’s transformation in Grease from innocent schoolgirl to leather-clad vixen became a cultural touchstone. Her on-screen style, particularly her final black outfit, influenced fashion trends for years to come. Newton-John’s music and film career continues to inspire.
Aretha Franklin: The Queen of Soul
Aretha Franklin’s powerful voice and soulful music defined a generation. Her impact on music and American culture is immeasurable. Franklin’s legacy as the “Queen of Soul” continues to inspire artists today.
Liza Minnelli: Broadway and Hollywood Star
Liza Minnelli’s captivating performances on Broadway and in Hollywood made her a star. Her powerful vocals, dynamic stage presence, and signature pixie cut made her a style icon. Minnelli’s contributions to entertainment continue to be celebrated.
Faye Dunaway: Hollywood Glamour Personified
Faye Dunaway’s elegant style and acclaimed acting career made her a Hollywood icon. Her roles in films like Bonnie and Clyde and Chinatown showcased her beauty and talent. Dunaway’s influence on film and fashion remains significant.
Cicely Tyson: Groundbreaking Actress and Activist
Cicely Tyson’s groundbreaking acting career and activism paved the way for Black actors in Hollywood. Her powerful performances and elegant style made her a role model and inspiration. Tyson’s legacy continues to inspire.
Jane Fonda: Actress and Activist
Jane Fonda’s successful acting career and political activism made her a prominent figure in the 1970s. Her fitness videos and outspoken views on social issues further cemented her influence. Fonda’s impact on fitness and activism continues to resonate.
Jane Birkin: Effortless Chic
Jane Birkin’s effortless chic and bohemian style made her a fashion icon. Her namesake Birkin bag, created by Hermès, remains a coveted accessory. Birkin’s influence on fashion and style endures.
Diana Ross: Supreme Style
Diana Ross’s incredible vocal talent and glamorous style made her a superstar. Her solo career and film roles showcased her versatility and charisma. Ross’s influence on music and fashion remains undeniable.
