10 Embarrassing ’70s Fashion Staples That Should Stay in the Past

The 1970s were a wild time for fashion, with bold choices that seemed innovative but didn’t age well. While some trends became timeless, others left us scratching our heads. From flashy materials to exaggerated designs, these ten staples are reminders of a daring decade best left behind.

1. Bell-Bottom Pants

Bell-bottoms flared out dramatically from the knees, making them impossible to ignore. While they were stylish in the disco era, their exaggerated shape wasn’t practical for everyday wear.

The oversized bottoms often dragged on the ground, collecting dirt and fraying easily. Today, their extreme look feels more costume than casual.

2. Polyester Leisure Suits

Leisure suits became a go-to look for men in the ‘70s. Made almost entirely of polyester, they were uncomfortable and didn’t breathe well, especially in hot weather.

The bold colors and wide lapels screamed disco fever but lacked versatility. Wearing one today would raise more eyebrows than compliments.

3. Platform Shoes

Platform shoes added inches to your height but came with a price. The thick soles made walking a challenge, and many people tripped or fell while wearing them.

While they worked for a night out, they were far from practical. Their flashy designs often clashed with outfits, making them harder to style.

4. Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits were everywhere in the ‘70s, with their one-piece design simplifying getting dressed. However, they were far from convenient. Bathroom trips became a chore, requiring the entire outfit to come off.

The unflattering fits and bright patterns didn’t help their case. Jumpsuits often looked better in photos than real life.

5. Huge Collars

Oversized collars dominated shirts and jackets in the ‘70s. Stretching well past the shoulders, they were a bold fashion statement but looked cartoonish in everyday settings.

Paired with wide ties and leisure suits, these collars turned outfits into exaggerated caricatures. It’s easy to see why this trend disappeared.

6. Patchwork Denim

Patchwork denim combined different washes of jean fabric into one garment. While it seemed creative, the result was often messy and overwhelming. Jeans and jackets ended up looking like DIY projects gone wrong.

The trend clashed with simpler styles, making it hard to pull off. It’s no surprise it faded quickly.

7. Velvet Everything

Velvet was everywhere in the ‘70s, from dresses to blazers. While soft to the touch, it was difficult to maintain. The fabric showed wear and tear easily, making it impractical for regular use.

Its shiny appearance often felt over the top, leaving many outfits looking more theatrical than fashionable.

8. Clunky Clogs

Clogs became a footwear staple with their wooden soles and chunky design. While they were easy to slip on, they weren’t ideal for walking long distances.

Their heavy build made them noisy and awkward. Today, clogs are more of a novelty item than a practical shoe choice.

9. Tie-Dye Everything

Tie-dye exploded in popularity during the ‘70s, with its bright, swirling colors appearing on shirts, pants, and even accessories. While fun, the designs often looked chaotic and clashed with other clothing.

The homemade vibe didn’t always translate to stylish outfits. Most tie-dye pieces worked better as casual wear than serious fashion.

10. Lamé Fabric

Lamé fabric, with its shiny metallic finish, became a favorite for disco outfits. While it reflected the lights on the dance floor, it felt too flashy for most settings.

The material also didn’t age well, often cracking or losing its sheen over time. It’s best left in the disco era.