
Our obsession with the '70s has finally peaked, and while boomers have lived through crochet and cords once already, we millennials can't help but fawn over the remixed silhouettes of the decade. Why are we so engrossed with the fashion of the bygone days? The clothes that defined it were all of the things we aspire to be: free-spirited, inherently cool, and a little rock n'roll. Even the greats—from Celine to Saint Laurent to Gucci—have taken inspiration from their own collections 50 years ago, reintroducing iconic prints, burnt hues, and embroidered fabrics. Understandably, you may not want to be confused for a member of The Brady Brunch, so remember that a soft take on the trends will keep you firmly planted in the present. Still not convinced? Side step your comfort zone and try out that flared corduroy pant, a clog sandal, or a crochet top—just don't wear them all at once. Ahead, seven blast-from-the-past trends to consider adding to your springtime wardrobe.
The Corduroy Pant
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Corduroy slacks are no longer a stuffy throwback pant from yesteryear. The ribbed fabric is now a cool denim alternative for your weekend attire. Designers in droves are finding their own take on the trend—from retro high waisted flares to slim leg alternatives—the cord is being fully embraced yet again.
This high-rise flare leg pant is a true throwback to the original 1970's silhouette.
A slim fit leg and mid-rise waist makes this corduroy option a great stand-in for jean devotees.
This relaxed fit corduroy option hits just above the ankle, ideal for pairing with a boyish loafer and a Joni Mitchell peasant blouse.
A favorite of '70s heart throb Greg Brady, these ultra-flared camel cords pair perfectly with an understated pastel sweater.
The Clog
Clog enthusiasts know all too well the allure of these wooden-soled shoes. Born in the Netherlands, it was America who made the clunky heeled footwear a beloved fashion fad of the decade. Today, with only slight variations, the practical clog has remained much the same. Opt for a cool designer pair or put a new twist on a more classic silhouette with your accessories—like a logo clad tube sock for a modern update.
These Italian crafted floral canvas clogs are your '70s inspired footwear for spring.
A chunky wooden platform offers height, but still provides a clog's quintessential comfort.
Don't wait for Memorial Day to invest in this white patent leather slip-on. Pair with high-waist khakis and an oversized blazer for a warm weather take.
The iconic Swedish Hasbeen brand has a vintage feel with modern craftsmanship. These classic wood-heeled clogs were inspired by a towering platform version from the '70s.
The Printed Shirt
While a button down shirt may forever be classified as a wardrobe staple, a printed version has a specific reference point in time—the '70s being one of those. The era embraced a more-is-more attitude when it came to their designs. From paisley to flower power, prints are back and they're bolder than ever.
This retro printed top embraces a '70s-style pointed collar, but pairs perfectly with a fitted workwear trouser or a midi skirt for the modern lady.
Layer this bright tapestry print top with a cascade of gold necklaces. If you're fond of a full look, consider investing in the matching skirt.
The fanciful floral print and colorful contrast piping will add warm weather vibes to a lightweight corduroy trouser.
Pair this billowy blouse with a maxi skirt and clogs for a romantic '70s moment.
The Floppy Hat
With its bold, face-framing brim, the iconic fashion hat of the '70s adds a bit of boho whimsy to any outfit. While many of today's floppy hats are destined for the beach, that wasn't always the case—Brigitte Bardot lived in one, while Bianca Jagger wed in one. Pair yours with oversized sunnies for a look that's stepped off the silver screen.
This giant floppy hat will shield you from the sun (and onlookers).
Crafted in Ecuador, this wide-brimmed straw hat will effortlessly pull together a city or beach ensemble.
A satin strap adds flare to this classic straw hat. A discreet adjustable interior band ensures a custom-like fit.
A sleek back ribbon offsets this slightly asymmetrical white hat. Invest in this one for your next getaway on the French Riviera.
The Crochet Top
The breezy crochet knit of the '70s is back, remixed in compelling new patterns and cheeky silhouettes that can be layered or worn on their own. Try a neutral hue or get far-out in a psychedelic pattern.
Take a step back in time with this daisy embroidered top with a sweet tied neckline.
Short puff sleeves and back button closures are just some of the details that make this crochet crop top a winner.
This pocket-friendly option has a sustainable lean, made from all natural fibers.
A groovy pattern, feminine scalloped neckline, and delicate spaghetti straps make this top the perfect contender for multiple occasions: including the bar and the beach.
The Fringe Jacket
It was Saint Laurent's late '60s collections that put fringe back on the map after its heyday in the flapper-filled era of the '20s. By the '70s, there was no cooler coat to rock out in than a fringe jacket or vest. Luckily, this vintage treasure is new again—making a full throttle comeback for all of us modern hippies.
This velvety suede jacket will be your go-to outerwear for chilly summer evenings and crisp fall days.
Punch up a turtleneck and jeans with this fringed trim, pocket -lined statement jacket.
Tap into your boho self with this jacket's elongated silhouette and fluttering fringe trim.
Business in the front and party in the back, this trucker style jacket will sway as you walk away.
The Head Scarf
While we may not be matching our hair accessories to our shift dresses anymore, there's nothing that says "who is she?" quite like a perfectly placed head scarf. One of the best accessories to recreate an iconic Elizabeth Taylor moment, loads of colors and prints will help you ace this statement look.
Inspired by Japanese landscapes, this pastel colored scarf is perfectly suited for a Sunday drive with the top down.
Opt for a mini version of the iconic Hermès scarf. When you're not donning it on your head, tie it around your wrist.
Style this scarf as a headband a la Goldie Hawn or fasten it to your current it-bag for a pop of color.
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Sara Holzman is the Style Director at Marie Claire, covering runway trends and tracking down the latest finds to buy and wear. When she’s not writing about fashion, she pens about the best places to jet-off to. Over her six years with Marie Claire, Sara has reported on the ever-evolving world of fashion— covering both established and emerging designers within the industry. Sara has held fashion positions at Lucky and SELF Magazine and was a regular contributor to Equinox’s Furthermore website, where she wrote across their style, wellness, and travel verticals. She holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and currently resides in Manhattan. Follow her along at @sarajonewyork.
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