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The Seventies are remembered for many things, but the distinctive fashions are very high up the list! The period is often characterised in terms of disco, funk and the commercialisation of rock music.
What are the seventies known for?
In addition to the booming music scene, in the UK the 1970s were characterised by economic and political change. The decade was blighted by the miners strikes, the power crisis and rapid inflation. Innovations of the period included Britain’s first female prime minister, Hawking radiation, the birth of modern computing, the Sony walkman, email, microwaves, VCRs and mobile phones.
What was the fashion of the period?
When we think of 1970s design, the first image that comes to mind is often based around geometric patterns and acid colours. Though this type of design was very popular during the period, there was a rather more aesthetically pleasing side to seventies fashion too!
One of the most iconic seventies fashions is the flare. This shape of trouser became ubiquitous during the period, and the cut was seen on jeans, chinos and even formal suit trousers.
The so-called peacock revolution of the period invited gentlemen to experiment with fabric and colour. Velvet and silk became popular, as did bright colours and style details such as ruffles. Suits became more varied and experimental during this time, with many gentlemen favouring jackets with shawl collars, peak lapels or even bold fabric choices.
What style lessons can we learn from the seventies?
We think the key style lesson to take from this period is that fashion can be fun. Don’t worry; we’re not suggesting you get your next suit tailored with full flares! However, perhaps a little seventies inspiration could help you make a bolder texture, colour or pattern decision.
If you’d like to see some more vintage style inspiration, take a look at what we can learn from the tailoring of the thirties.