’70s was the era of good vibes and great tunes. With David Bowie and Mick Jagger on rise, the disco culture and bell-bottoms defined the iconic ’70s, and the time is still remembered as the era of cultural shift, especially in fashion. Setting the tone for 2021, we saw designers bring back some of the greatest hits from the past on the runway. We saw interesting textures, eye-catching colours and patterns such as satin, velvet, corduroy along with essential items such as wide-leg pants, sweater vests, long collared shirts, all of which point to the iconic era.
So what are the key pieces of the year? How can we wear them? Celebrity stylists Isha Bhansali, Gurleen and Sukhmani Gambhir help decode the ’70s wardrobe, and explain how to nail it in 2021.
Talking about the key pieces of the year, Gurleen and Sukhmani say, “’70s fashion for men was all about bell bottoms, fitted wide-collared shirts, textured tailored suits, bold patterns like tie-dyes, paisleys, oversized prints, and textures like satin, corduroy, poplins, etc. Tight polos and turtlenecks were also a big thing back then. In our opinion, corduroys, bold prints, and turtlenecks have made a comeback. Fashion trends are all about a repeated cycle. Also, not to forget, the favourite tinted sunglasses.” Bhansali feels printed flimsy shirts and flared bottoms, thanks to Gucci’s collections for the last couple of seasons, have come back in a solid way.
The best way to wear a bold print shirt, according to Gurleen and Sukhmani, is not going overboard with the styling as it will end up looking bizarre. “Keep it sharp with a well-tailored neutral bottom. Secondly, a turtleneck under a suit is always interesting, but wear it with a solid texture, like a checkered or striped suit, and not with bold or bright coloured ones. Go for tie-dye printed shirts, sweatshirts, and tracksuits, but keep the other pieces, like your sneakers and bottoms, in neutral shades. It’s better to always keep one statement piece and not confuse the look with too many elements.”
Bhansali opines, “Make sure the bottoms are not too tight like they actually wore in the ’70s. A well-groomed chest is a key to pulling off a cool printed shirt. Choose wide denims and instead of silk shirts, you can opt for more casual fabrics.”
Here are some of the key pieces to add to your list in 2021:
CORDUROY TROUSERS
If there’s a fashion trend that screams ‘70s, it’s corduroy. Corduroy trousers in darker shades are a solid starting point for those experimenting with the style in 2021. If you want to wear corduroy minimalistically, a pair of comfortable cord trousers can replace the everyday jeans. Add your usual sweatshirt, shirt, or T-shirt, and you’re good to go.
TURTLENECKS
Turtlenecks are edging back into the mainstream in recent seasons, making them a more refined way to keep warm rather than wearing a scarf. Try pairing turtlenecks with some high-waisted trousers to fully commit to the ’70s aesthetic. A cream turtleneck worn beneath a black shearling coat or a leather jacket is one of the finest examples of layering that you can ever come across.
TINTED MINI SUNGLASSES
Tinted sunglasses in the shades of yellow, red, purple, or blue, but make them mini. These mini eyewear go with literally everything. Be it a statement fit or running errands, mini pairs will add a hint of the era.
PRINTED SILK SHIRTS
Silk shirts with baroque, paisley, and graphic prints are returning with an upgraded touch. Make black trousers your best friends, along with bold printed silk pieces. Go full Harry Styles by opting for the perfect rockstar footwear — the good old black Chelsea boots.
VELVET
After being a major highlight in the ’70s, velvet managed to sneak in the ’80s as well. Think of something that can be easily worn at work, but also during evening parties. A velvet blazer is enough to start off the party season. If you wish to play safe, velvet shirts and bombers can be added on. Another option would be velvet flares, along with basic graphic T-shirts. Add shades of blue, brown, tan, and black to your wardrobe.
