The 1970s, with their captivating aura of independence and daring, persistently motivate fashion creators to reenvision the period's look and produce contemporary adaptations of what are considered 'perennial staples.' So, what stylistic evolutions are emerging now?
Foremost, it's about how you put things together. The approach no longer demands nostalgic replication of vintage photographs; instead, it encourages savoring the present, being more adventurous with pairings, and rejecting strict rules of coordination. Overall, you'll find it appealing!
The global circumstances have naturally reshaped our clothing purchasing habits. On one side, there's a growing emphasis on mindful spending; on the other, people seek garments that simply bring joy and elevate their mood. Caught between these somewhat emotional extremes, a trend has emerged toward investing in costly timeless pieces, many of which trace their roots to the 1970s.
Certainly, we recognize this decade from multiple perspectives: hippie culture, floral motifs, fringe – alongside textured, premium, bohemian pieces that perfectly aligned with the era's liberating spirit. The challenge lies in merging two desires: dressing up while avoiding transient fads. 1970s style adeptly satisfies both: it can be refined, serene, audacious, or sensual. The key is that its building blocks are classic, recognizable items. How you combine them is entirely up to your creativity.
Designers, facing similar circumstances, must cater to consumer demands. Consequently, in the autumn-winter 2020 collections (and future plans), we see a clear emphasis on more conventional, recognizable silhouettes and a modern classic aesthetic leaning toward minimalism and sculpted forms. They recognize that such pieces will endure any challenge, stay sought-after, and outpace fleeting hype and trendy fads by several steps.
But here's the subtle point. Fashion is famously cyclical, often revisiting the past to forge the future. Yet that notion doesn't fully apply to 1970s classics, which operate under different principles. Interest in bourgeois style actually predated the coronavirus saga and has transformed from a mere aesthetic into a contemporary dressing approach. In other words, items like cashmere turtlenecks, flared pants, checked suits, and suede midi skirts have transcended their '70s origins to become everyday staples deliberately adopted by stylish women.
Now, let's examine precisely which pieces deserve a spot in your autumn wardrobe to satisfy the craving for striking outfits while relying on a dependable collection of enduring items.
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The Trench Coat
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A trench coat, flared pants, monogram details—the modernized 1970s aesthetic seamlessly complements urban style, and autumn shopping traditionally begins with a raincoat. An auspicious start! In all seriousness, the trench coat remains an iconic autumn staple—it almost feels like September cannot begin without one. So equip yourself with a version in classic light hues, then experiment freely, perhaps with quirky eyewear.
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Statement Blouses
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Striking blouses are another hallmark of the 1970s. They come in versions not only with ruffles and balloon sleeves but also with unexpectedly daring cutouts. These pieces lend the outfit a touch of drama and theatricality, as intended. Pair these blouses with structured suits and classic items, such as straight-leg trousers or a knee-length skirt. Color choice depends on your taste and goals. Black suits restaurant dinners, dates, and theater premieres. White brightens any workday and pairs well with jeans and Cossack boots.
The Pantsuit
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From a practical standpoint, a pantsuit may not appeal to everyone, but aesthetically, it's the opposite. It instantly evokes past style icons like Bianca Jagger or Charlotte Rampling. Today's suits are styled differently, of course—worn with plain white T-shirts, sneakers, or sandals. The color palette is broad, encompassing not only classic neutrals but also less universal shades like pink or white. In fact, suits are now even packed for vacations, so it's worth reconsidering any lingering skepticism.
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Tall Boots
See this Instagram post A post shared by Suzanne Koller (@suzannekoller) on Nov 27, 2019 at 2:53am PST
Tall boots—either sleek or pleated—are essential for a polished look. They transform any dress, blouse, or pants (fashion-forward women even tuck trousers into them). So if you're planning to economize, don't skimp on boots. A little secret: brown leather appears more luxurious, but black versions are easier to coordinate with clothing. So check your existing wardrobe before grabbing your favorite pair at the register. Though we understand the temptation—we sometimes do the same.
Bold Print Dresses
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Recall our earlier mention of floral prints? They are not exclusive to hippie chic; they also fit comfortably within classic style. A floral-print work dress is perfectly acceptable if the pattern aligns with the theme. And 1970s-style flowers are unmistakable. The color palette adheres to autumn's typical hues. The fabrics are luxurious and lovely, like silk and satin. A cotton floral dress, however, is an entirely different matter.
The Leather Jacket
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An autumn season without a stylish leather jacket simply isn't autumn. It's the ideal companion for jeans, midi skirts, and delicate dresses. This jacket is a true investment and a wardrobe cornerstone that defies passing trends and suits any occasion: work, casual gatherings, even formal events.
