7 Ways to Wear ‘70s Disco Fashion Like It’s 2022 (& 1 Look to Leave in 1977) (2024)

Published Mar 29, 2022

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We all know the saying—history has a tendency to repeat itself…especially in the form of fashion. And there’s no doubt that ‘70s disco fashion is just about everywhere we look these days. Think about that Farrah Fawcett hair you saved on your feed or Bella Hadid’s Vehla sunglasses you wanted to add to cart. All seventies influenced. The rise of disco called for funky cuts, bold patterns and daring expression. Think: The Supremes in striking bell-bottoms and opulent silhouettes or the original Charlie’s Angels in the pointed tapered collars. With a resurgence of ‘70s disco fashion, we’ve curated a list of seven ways to capture the vibe in 2022—and one that's better left in 1977.

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

1. Balance bold patterns with staple accessories

When it comes to channeling another decade via fashion, there’s a fine line that teeters ‘just right’ and ‘overdoing it.’ To keep things modern, opt for just one bold, funky pattern and keep the rest of your outfit fairly neutral, with solid colors or—if you really want to go for it—a subdued print.

Shop similar styles: Vehla Eyewear Dixie ($160); Nasty Gal Oversized Aviator Jacket ($288; $114); Dundas x Revolve Munroe Shearling Jacket ($798); Cider Multicolor Retro Knitted Cardigan ($24); Cider Floral All Over Print Flares ($28)

Christian Vierig / Contributor

2. Rock a denim jumpsuit

Nothing screams peak ‘70s quite like a good all-denim look. Think: John Lennon sporting his favorite Wrangler jeans, Brooke Shields’s controversial Calvin Klein ad at the end of the decade or pretty much any of Sonny and Cher’s iconic denim ensembles. There are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a denim jumpsuit doesn’t look costume-y: First, opt for wide or flared legs rather than slimmer cuts. Then, add a cool camel coat with a minimal shoe to add polish to the look without stealing any attention from the denim jumpsuit.

Shop similar looks: Show Me Your Mumu Emery Jumpsuit ($188); Alice + Olivia Denim Jumpsuit ($550); REISS Danie Denim Jumpsuit ($320)

Hope Macaulay

3. Embrace funky materials

Denim is all well and good, but another fun way to channel the ‘70s is by incorporating bolder, less expected materials into your wardrobe. While the crochet boom mostly began in the sixties, the DIY look carried well into the seventies. This would be a fabulous time to scour vintage stores for bold knits that are the real deal, or look for sustainable designers who prioritize the handmade granny squares cherished back in the day. Since these crochet cardigans run bulky, we suggest pairing them with a cute bralette or form-fitting shirt and a bold, straight-leg leather pant for a modern twist on a groovy outfit. While not for the faint of heart, these in-your-face combos are sure to turn some heads.

4. Opt for shiny fabrics (and platform heels)

Say it with us: nylon, nylon nylon! Be the center of attention in this shiny, wrinkle-free fabric that will make it look like you stepped straight off the disco floor after a night of boogying. Disco pants are making a *big* comeback, and the best way to pull them off is to let them be the star of the show. Keep your look simple and clean—with a matching top or a even a simple white tee—as not to deter from the pizazz. To finish off the look, we recommend digging up your cutest platform heels to (quite literally) take you to the next level.

Edward Berthelot/Contributor

5. Try a halter neckline

We love the subtle sexiness that a plunge halter has to offer—it’s s a low-key way to show off some skin while still looking chic and classy. Whether you decide on a dress, jumpsuit or top in a pattern or a solid color, this gorgeous ‘70s silhouette is a no-brainer—especially once you’ve squared away your backless bra situation.

Christian Vierig / Contributor

6. Swap Beanies and Baseball Caps for Fun Headscarves

So, your scarf tops have been sitting in the bottom of your drawer during the past winter months. Fear not; you can totally breathe new life into it as a ‘70s-inspired headscarf. Not only does a headscarf help hide a bad hair day, but it quickly polishes your ‘fit.

7. Keep things cool with an earth-toned palette

While a lot of ‘70s fashion was bright and daring, avocado greens, rusty reds, wooden browns and mustard yellows were also de rigueur. Pair earth-toned pants with a simple T-shirt for a foolproof weekend look, or rock a head-to-toe brown get-up as a retro twist on your typical all-black vibe.

Shop similar looks: Madewell Racerback Crop Top ($42); ASOS Bershka Leather Blazer ($60); Revolve Leather Like Shacket ($139; $126); ASOS Bershka Tailored Pant ($36); Free People Charlie Chain Crossbody ($58)

Edward Berthelot / Contributor

Don’t: Wear the same pattern head-to-toe

While we love a staple bell-bottom cut, confident print and vintage-style pantsuit, combining all the above with head-to-toe patterned print runs the risk of looking kitschy and, dare we say…like an Austin Powers costume? Not “Groovy, baby.” Instead, stick to one ‘70s-inspired piece at a time and feel free to mix and match. Less is more.

Stephanie Meraz

Associate Fashion Commerce Editor

Stephanie Meraz is PureWow’s Associate Fashion Commerce Editor. Stephanie is a natural savant in the fashion, beauty, and dating & relationships beats. She has over 22+ years...

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