The 1970s never stay away for long, and this round of the revival draws on all of the decade's moods at once: bohemian, disco, prairie and western. That's why 70s inspired outfits are so easy to wear now. You can be in a floral maxi on Saturday and a sequin jumpsuit on Saturday night without either feeling forced. The pieces that carry the look haven't changed: high-rise flares, peasant blouses, crochet, corduroy, suede and a platform sole. Below are 35 complete outfits, from errands to the dance floor, with the fit and fabric notes I'd give a client trying each one for the first time.
Hemming Flares for Platforms Without Ruining Them
Nearly half of these outfits rest on a flared or bell-bottom leg, and the hem decides whether they look right. A flare that stops at the ankle looks cut off; one that drags on the floor frays and catches under your heel. Here's how I set the length.
- Put on the shoes you'll wear most with the trousers, platforms or heeled boots, before measuring anything.
- Stand straight and have someone pin the hem so the back is about half an inch off the floor and the front just covers the top of the shoe.
- For denim, ask the tailor to keep the original hem. It's reattached higher up, so the faded edge stays and the jeans don't look altered.
- If you switch between flats and platforms, buy two pairs or settle on one heel height. A hem set for platforms will drag with flats.
- Wash and dry jeans once before hemming. Cotton denim usually shrinks slightly in length on the first wash.
Wide-leg crepe and velvet need a slightly shorter hem than denim, because they fold and pool at the foot. A quarter inch shorter keeps them clear of the ground.
1. Flared jeans with peasant blouse outfit
Flares and an embroidered peasant blouse are probably the best known of all 70s inspired outfits, and the shape explains why. Denim fitted through the waist and thigh balances the volume of a gathered blouse, so the eye reads a defined middle. I'd pick a white cotton blouse with three-quarter bell sleeves and colored embroidery, tucked fully into dark flares that skim the floor. Tan platform clogs or wooden-soled sandals give the lift the hem needs. A fringed leather crossbody, round tortoiseshell sunglasses and a few long pendants at staggered lengths finish it for a market morning or brunch.
2. Floral maxi dress with ankle boots outfit
A floral maxi with a deep V, bishop sleeves and a tiered skirt is the romantic side of the decade. Paisley or wildflower prints in rust, mustard and olive on cream look most authentic. What keeps it from looking like a costume is the boot: suede ankle boots with a stacked heel give the floaty dress some weight. A wide leather belt with a brass buckle finds the waist, and a cognac hobo and a felt floppy hat finish it. Tiered maxis add volume at every seam, so if you're petite, I'd choose one with two tiers rather than four.
3. Crochet midi dress with platform sandals outfit
Crochet was everywhere in the 70s, and a cream midi crochet dress with long sleeves and a slight flare at mid-calf is a good warm-weather piece. Check the lining before anything else; many crochet dresses come unlined, and you'll need a nude slip underneath. Keep jewelry fine, a gold chain and thin wooden bangles, so the texture leads. Caramel platform sandals, a fringed suede crossbody and lightly tinted round sunglasses finish it for an outdoor concert or a warm afternoon. Crochet stretches when hung, so I fold it flat in a drawer.
4. Tie-dye top with bell-bottom pants outfit
A cotton tie-dye tee in indigo, turquoise and magenta over high-waisted white bell-bottoms makes the swirl look modern; the clean white denim is what does it. A long suede vest on top adds the layering the decade loved, and jute platform espadrilles give height. A beaded headband, stone bracelets, big hoops and a tan fringed bag lean fully into the hippie movement, so I'd save this one for a festival or a free weekend. White bell-bottoms show grass and dirt at the hem within an hour outside, so pack a stain stick.
5. Denim jumpsuit with platform sneakers outfit
The denim jumpsuit came straight out of the 70s, and a fitted version with a front zip, a defined waist and a flare from the knee looks long and sleek. Try it on sitting down: a one-piece pulls at the crotch and shoulders if the torso length is too short for you, and no amount of styling fixes that. Chunky white platform sneakers make it feel current, and a ribbed turtleneck underneath works when it's cold. A silk scarf at the neck, a top-handle bag, square sunglasses and gold hoops finish it.
6. Suede fringe jacket with flared jeans outfit
A tan suede jacket with long fringe across the back and sleeves moves with every step, and that movement is the whole point. I'd keep the rest simple: a white fitted tee and medium-wash high-rise flares. Brown pointed western ankle boots with a stacked heel, a camel felt hat, a tooled belt and long pendants push it into the western-bohemian crossover the decade was known for. Suede jackets dislike rain, so check the forecast; water leaves dark marks and stiffens fringe. It's my pick for a dry fall weekend.
7. Corduroy blazer with wide-leg trousers outfit
A rust or caramel corduroy blazer and matching wide-leg trousers is one of the smartest ways to wear the decade. The blazer should have notched lapels and a slightly roomy fit; the trousers sit high and fall full. A cream silk pussy-bow blouse softens all that texture. Dark brown platform loafers, a chunky gold chain, sculptural hoops and a brown satchel finish it for the office or a dinner. Look at the wale: wide wale is warmer and more casual, while a fine wale drapes better in a suit.
8. Peasant mini dress with lace-up sandals outfit
A cream cotton peasant mini with a square neck, bell sleeves and smocking across the bodice is the summer version. I'd belt it at the natural waist with wide leather to stop the smocking from making it look like a nightdress. Flat brown lace-up sandals tied around the ankle, a round rattan crossbody, a silk scarf in the hair and tortoiseshell sunglasses finish it. Short and full can be tricky if you're tall, because the hem rises higher on you; check the length when you lift your arms.
9. Patchwork denim jeans with vintage band tee outfit
Patchwork flares were a piece of 70s home craft, with panels of different washes sewn into geometric shapes down the leg. They're loud, so the top has to be plain: a fitted vintage band tee with a faded graphic, tucked in at the front. Black lace-up platform boots, a wide leather cuff, layered silver chains, aviators and a canvas messenger bag finish it for a concert or a casual night out. Real patchwork with seams in every direction can stretch unevenly, so buy the snugger size.
10. Boho maxi skirt with embroidered blouse outfit
A tiered cotton maxi skirt in bands of print or embroidery is pure 70s bohemian romance. With all that detail on the skirt, the top should be a plain white peasant blouse with a drawstring neck and full sleeves. Flat brown gladiator sandals that lace to the ankle, long beaded necklaces in wood and shell, a tan floppy hat and round sunglasses complete it for a garden party or an outdoor wedding. Gladiator straps can rub on a long day, so wear them around the house a few times first.
11. Sequin halter jumpsuit with platform heels outfit
The disco side of the decade is all about sparkle. A sequin halter jumpsuit with a deep V, a defined waist and wide flared legs in gold, silver or emerald needs almost nothing else. Metallic platform sandals add height, and a small glittery clutch and crystal earrings are all the extras it can take. A high ponytail or big waves and a berry lip finish it for a cocktail party. Sequins scratch the inside of the arms when you dance, so I look for a version with a soft lining at the armholes.
12. Velvet blazer with silk blouse and flared trousers outfit
Velvet adds instant richness. A fitted black or deep burgundy velvet blazer with peak lapels over a champagne silk blouse with a soft bow makes the top half; high-waisted black wool flares make the legs long. The contrast of plush, smooth and structured fabrics is what gives the outfit depth. Black platform heels with an ankle strap, a gold chain belt, small sculptural earrings and a velvet clutch finish it. It suits a holiday party where you want a 70s nod without anything theatrical. Don't hang velvet tightly between other coats; crushed pile leaves shiny patches.
13. High-waisted bell-bottoms with crochet top outfit
High-rise bell-bottoms in a light or medium wash, snug through the hip before the flare, with a cream or mustard crochet halter make a classic warm-weather pairing. The high waistband meets the short top, so only a sliver of skin shows. Wooden platform sandals with ankle straps, a suede belt with a brass buckle, long pendants, amber round sunglasses and a fringed bucket bag finish it. Crochet halters often tie at the neck and back; tie them firmly, because cotton yarn loosens as it warms up.
14. Paisley print wrap dress with wedge sandals outfit
The jersey wrap dress is one of the decade's most lasting shapes because the tie adjusts to your waist. I'd choose long sleeves, a deep V and a bold paisley in burgundy, navy and gold. Tan wedge espadrilles keep it daytime, and gold hoops, a slim bangle and a cognac top-handle bag add polish. A silk scarf on the ponytail or bag handle is the retro touch. Wrap fronts slip open when you sit, so I add a small snap at the cross point. It moves from the office to dinner without a change.
15. Knit twin set with A-line midi skirt outfit
The knit twin set, a cardigan and matching short-sleeve shell, is coming back quietly. Fine wool or cashmere in mustard, forest green or burnt orange looks most 70s. Tuck the shell into a high-waisted A-line tweed or wool midi, and wear brown knee-high boots with a low heel that disappear under the hem. A slim belt, pearl studs, a tan satchel and a small silk scarf tied at the neck finish the preppy look for an office or a lunch. Twin sets pill under the arms first; a fabric comb takes care of it.
16. Satin shirt with flared leather pants outfit
A satin shirt with a long dagger collar in burgundy or midnight navy, left open a few buttons, shows the glam, slightly edgy side of the decade. Tuck it into high-waisted black leather or faux leather flares that hug the thigh before kicking out. Black platform ankle boots, a gold chain belt, layered gold necklaces, square sunglasses and a patent shoulder bag finish it for a dinner or gallery evening. Leather flares need a longer inseam than denim because the leather doesn't stretch over the boot; buy them long and have them hemmed.
17. Corduroy pinafore dress with ruffled blouse outfit
A camel or rust corduroy pinafore with thin straps and an A-line mini hem is a sweet piece for in-between weather. Under it, a white ruffled blouse with a high frilled neck and full sleeves softens the corduroy. Opaque tights and dark brown knee-high boots with a low block heel keep it warm, and a tan crossbody and a velvet hair ribbon finish it. I'd skip the frilled collar if you have a short neck; a plain round neck works just as well.
18. Metallic mini dress with go-go boots outfit
Silver or gold lamé in a simple long-sleeved shift with a high neck keeps the shine modern because the shape is so plain. White or cream go-go boots with a chunky heel commit to the dance-floor look. A small metallic clutch, silver hoops and a glossy nude lip are enough, with hair sleek or in soft waves. It's made for New Year's Eve. Lamé creases at the lap after sitting, so I'd keep the dress for parties where you're on your feet.
19. Wide-leg jumpsuit with clogs and layered necklaces outfit
A wide-leg jumpsuit in an earthy floral or paisley is a one-piece outfit that always looks finished. Choose a fitted bodice, a belted waist and legs that pool slightly over the shoe. Rust, olive and cream prints suit dark brown wooden platform clogs. Long pendants in mixed metals and wood, thin gold bangles, round sunglasses and a tan suede shoulder bag finish it for travel or a creative office. Check whether there's a back zip before buying, because some jumpsuits need help to get in and out of.
20. Flared denim overalls with fitted knit top outfit
Dark-wash flared overalls with adjustable straps and a bib pocket are a playful throwback. Wear them over a fitted ribbed knit in rust, mustard or cream so there's no bulk under the bib. Tan platform clogs or chunky platform sneakers work on the feet. A colorful paisley bandana at the neck or in the hair adds the retro touch, with round metal sunglasses and a canvas tote. Shorten the straps until the bib sits flat; when they're too long, the crotch sags and the flare loses its line.
21. Earth-tone palazzo pants with knotted blouse outfit
Palazzo pants were the decade's big statement trouser. Soft crepe in rust, olive or ochre gives the widest leg the best drape. Tuck in a light white cotton blouse and knot the front at the waist, which marks the high rise without a belt. Brown platform sandals with a carved heel, long beaded necklaces, a wide leather cuff, a straw tote and round sunglasses finish it for a summer evening or a resort trip. Hem palazzos to clear the ground in your platforms; crepe drags and frays fast on pavement.
22. Hot pants with halter top and knee-high boots outfit
Hot pants were daring then and still are now, so the tailoring has to be precise. I'd choose high-waisted shorts in camel suede or burgundy leather, which look dressier than denim. A fitted black or cream knit halter shows the shoulders. Black knee-high platform boots balance the short hem; the taller the boot, the less leg shows. A wide belt with a gold buckle, square sunglasses, big hoops and a small shoulder bag finish it for a night out. If short hems make you uncomfortable, try the same idea with a suede mini instead.
23. Patchwork midi skirt with lace-up boots outfit
A patchwork midi skirt, gathered from floral, paisley and solid panels in burgundy, mustard, brown and cream, is a little wearable folk art. Let it lead by tucking in a plain black fine-knit turtleneck. Black lace-up lug-sole ankle boots keep it modern, and a wide suede belt, layered silver chains and a simple black crossbody finish it for a gallery visit or a fall walk. Gathered skirts add bulk at the waist, so if you're short-waisted, wear the turtleneck untucked with a belt over it instead.
24. Vintage graphic tee with patchwork flare jeans outfit
High-waisted patched denim flares with contrasting washes down each leg make the statement here. A faded band tee or retro typography tee, loosely tucked, keeps the top quiet. Black platform ankle boots, a worn brown belt, silver chains, aviators and a distressed hobo bag finish the rock-leaning look for concerts and weekends. It's a close cousin of the patchwork outfit above, so if you own one pair of patched jeans, you have two outfits.
25. Plaid flared trousers with turtleneck bodysuit outfit
Plaid flares in a muted navy, forest and burgundy tartan with a pressed crease are the preppy side of the decade. A fitted black turtleneck bodysuit keeps the top smooth and stays tucked. Black patent platform Mary Janes, a slim patent belt, gold hoops and a black crossbody with a chain finish it for the office or a holiday gathering. Line up the pattern at the side seams before you buy; on cheaper trousers, the checks don't match and the flare looks crooked.
26. Crochet vest over slip dress with suede boots outfit
A cream crochet vest left open over a silky midi slip in emerald, sapphire or burgundy creates the layered texture that 70s boho was built on. Tan suede knee-high boots with a low block heel make it walkable. A thin brown belt, layered gold pendants, a fringed crossbody and tortoiseshell round sunglasses finish it, and it goes from a daytime market to dinner. The slip shows through the crochet, so pick a slip color you like on its own.
27. Burgundy corduroy flares with cream turtleneck outfit
High-waisted burgundy corduroy flares with a chunky cream cable turtleneck tucked in at the front is my favorite fall outfit on this list. Tan platform ankle boots with a stacked wooden heel, a brown belt with a brass buckle, gold hoops and a tan suede bag keep the palette to three warm tones. Chunky knits add bulk at the waist when tucked; tuck just the front few inches. It's a good outfit for apple picking or a cool dinner.
28. Sheer kimono with flared jeans and platform sandals outfit
A long sheer chiffon kimono in a rust, pink and olive print adds movement over a white ribbed tank and light-wash flares. Tan crisscross platform sandals, beaded necklaces, mixed bangles, round sunglasses and a caramel fringed bucket bag finish it for a warm evening or festival. Chiffon snags on bag hardware and jewelry, so I avoid chunky metal near the sleeves and carry the bag on the opposite shoulder.
29. Double denim flared jeans and western shirt outfit
Double denim has deep roots in the decade's western influence. Medium-wash high-rise flares, snug through the hip, go with a matching denim western shirt with pointed yokes, snap buttons and a dagger collar. Tuck it in and break the denim with a wide brown belt and a big buckle. Brown pointed cowboy boots, a tooled leather crossbody, a turquoise ring and a tan felt fedora complete it. Choose washes within a shade of each other; a near match reads intentional, while two different blues can look accidental.
30. Velvet flared trousers with silk camisole outfit
Velvet flares in black or deep emerald, sleek through the thigh and flaring from the knee, are the decade's evening trouser. A black silk camisole with fine lace at the neckline keeps the outfit simple. Black strappy platform sandals, a gold chain belt, fine layered necklaces, small earrings and a velvet or metallic clutch finish it for date nights and cocktail parties. Velvet trousers bag at the knee after a long sit; hang them by the hem overnight and they recover.
31. Floral prairie dress with lace-up ankle boots outfit
The prairie dress was a romantic staple of the decade, and it's still wearable today. I'd choose a high neck, long puffed sleeves, a fitted bodice and a tiered midi skirt in a tiny floral on a dark ground. Black lace-up ankle boots peek out under the hem. A thin velvet ribbon at the neck, a gold locket and a small black top-handle bag finish it, with soft loose waves. High necks with puffed sleeves can overwhelm a short neck or a large bust, so a slightly lower neckline helps.
32. Colorful knit poncho with bell-bottoms outfit
A knit poncho in a bold geometric or striped pattern of mustard, rust, cream and brown, with a fringed hem, is cozy outerwear with real 70s character. Wear it over a cream turtleneck and with high-waisted brown corduroy or denim bell-bottoms that balance the volume. Brown platform clogs, amber round sunglasses, a wide leather headband and a suede hobo bag finish it. Ponchos make crossbody bags awkward; a shoulder bag worn under the poncho works better.
33. Western suede mini skirt with turtleneck outfit
A camel suede A-line mini with topstitching and a snap front gives the western trend a cleaner edge. A fitted black fine-knit turtleneck tucked in keeps the torso long. Black knee-high boots with a chunky heel should end just below the hem. A wide brown belt with a brass buckle, gold hoops, a black shoulder bag and a tan fedora finish it for a casual office day. Suede skirts stretch at the seat after a few wears; buy them snug.
34. Burgundy velvet blazer with floral midi dress outfit
Mixing textures and prints is a very 70s way to dress. A dark-ground floral midi with a V-neck, sheer sleeves and a flowing skirt under a fitted burgundy velvet blazer adds warmth and turns a day dress into an evening outfit. Dark brown platform ankle boots, a slim gold chain, small earrings and a burgundy velvet clutch finish it for a fall wedding or dinner party. Choose a floral with a little burgundy in it so the blazer looks related to the dress.
35. All-white 70s outfit with headscarf and platforms
All white is the jet-set side of the decade. High-waisted white crepe flares and a white sleeveless ribbed knit with a high neck make a clean base, and white platform sandals with a stacked wooden heel add height. Then add the 70s accessories: a paisley silk scarf tied turban-style, big gold hoops, layered chains, a tan belt and a straw bag with leather trim. Check that the white trousers aren't see-through in daylight; nude underwear is the safest choice under white crepe.
Real Vintage or a New Version?
Many of these pieces can be found secondhand, and an original 70s corduroy blazer or suede jacket often has better fabric than a new copy. Vintage sizing is the catch. Size labels from that era run smaller than modern ones, so ignore the number and measure: bust, waist and hip on the flat garment, doubled, against your own measurements. Allow a couple of inches of ease in jackets.
Check the zip, the lining and the underarms before buying. A broken zip is an easy repair; a lining that has shredded or underarm fabric that has gone thin usually isn't worth fixing. Smell the piece too, since stale storage smells in wool and suede can be hard to remove.
Caring for Suede, Corduroy and Velvet
These are the three fabrics most of these outfits rely on, and each needs different care. Suede wants a brush and a protective spray before its first outing; if it gets wet, let it dry away from heat and brush it once dry. Corduroy should be washed inside out on a gentle cycle so the ribs don't flatten. Velvet should be steamed from the back, never pressed flat on the front, or the pile crushes and leaves a shine you can't remove.
Start With the Flare and Build From There
The 70s give you an unusually wide range, from corduroy and suede to sequins and satin, and very little of it needs a costume to wear. What keeps it modern is restraint: one or two pieces from the decade, such as a flare, a crochet layer or a bold print, with current shoes and simple accessories around them. If you're new to it, start with a good pair of high-waisted flares hemmed for platforms. Almost every outfit on this list builds from there.
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