7 70s Fashion Trends We’d Like to Forget

The 1970s brought a unique blend of style, but not all of it was timeless. From bold patterns to questionable fabrics, some fashion trends from this era have aged poorly. While the 70s had its share of iconic looks, there were also plenty of trends we’d rather leave behind. Here are seven 70s fashion choices that definitely missed the mark.

1. Bell-Bottoms

Bell-bottoms were a staple of 70s fashion, with their flared legs creating a dramatic silhouette. They became a must-have item, worn by both men and women. But looking back, the oversized flare often looked awkward, especially when paired with platform shoes.

While bell-bottoms were meant to make a statement, they often went overboard. The exaggerated shape made them impractical for daily wear. Although they had a brief comeback in later years, most of us are happy to leave this trend in the past.

2. Polyester Everything

Polyester was everywhere in the 70s, from shirts to pants and even suits. The fabric’s synthetic feel and unnatural sheen made it popular for its low-maintenance care, but the stiff texture wasn’t the most comfortable. Many people found themselves sweating in these synthetic clothes.

Though polyester promised convenience, it often lacked style. The fabric didn’t breathe well, and the shiny look could be unflattering. Today, many avoid polyester-heavy outfits, remembering how uncomfortable those 70s styles could be.

3. Platform Shoes

Platform shoes were all about height in the 70s. Both men and women wore them to add inches to their stature, but walking in these bulky shoes wasn’t easy. The thick soles and towering heels made for clumsy steps and frequent tripping hazards.

The platforms’ size and weight made them more of a fashion risk than a statement. Though they were trendy at the time, it’s safe to say most people prefer more practical footwear today. These shoes were fun for the dance floor, but not for everyday life.

4. Leisure Suits

Leisure suits became a symbol of casual style, often made of polyester and featuring wide lapels. While the idea was to look relaxed and fashionable, the suits often appeared cheap and too shiny. They quickly became a cliché of 70s fashion excess.

The oversized collars and bold patterns didn’t help the leisure suit’s image either. Instead of looking stylish, the suit often seemed like a costume. Today, it’s remembered more for its tackiness than its fashion sense, making it one of the decade’s most regrettable trends.

5. Earth Tones Overload

The 70s were obsessed with earth tones, from browns and oranges to mustard yellows. While these colors were meant to evoke nature, the overall effect was often drab. Wearing head-to-toe in these muted shades could make even the brightest personality seem dull.

Though earth tones still have their place in modern fashion, the 70s took it to the extreme. Too much of these colors led to outfits that felt flat and uninspired. Looking back, the overuse of these shades feels more dated than natural.

6. Hot Pants

Hot pants, or very short shorts, were a bold 70s trend that left little to the imagination. While they were popular for their daring look, the extremely short length made them impractical and uncomfortable. Many people embraced this trend, but it wasn’t suitable for every occasion.

Though hot pants were meant to show off confidence, they often pushed the boundaries of good taste. Today, they’re seen as more of a fashion misstep than a daring statement, with most people opting for more comfortable and modest shorts.

7. Tie-Dye Everything

Tie-dye was a symbol of the counterculture movement, and by the 70s, it had become mainstream. From t-shirts to dresses, people embraced the colorful, psychedelic patterns. But the randomness of the design often made outfits look more chaotic than stylish.

Though tie-dye was meant to represent individuality and creativity, it quickly became overused. Entire outfits drenched in swirling colors felt like sensory overload. While tie-dye occasionally resurfaces, it’s more often associated with its 70s overuse.