The Best '70s Fashion Trends to Bring Into 2023

Clogs, crochet tops, and fringe, oh my!

1970s Fashion
(Image credit: Getty Images ¦ Gianni Penati)

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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Woman Wearing Corduroy Pants

(Image credit: John Cowan)

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.

The Clog

Women Wearing Clogs

(Image credit: McKeown)

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.

The Printed Shirt

The Printed Shirt

(Image credit: Getty Images ¦ Gianni Penati)

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.

The Floppy Hat

The Floppy Hat

(Image credit: Getty Images ¦ Slim Aarons)

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.

The Crochet Top

The Crochet Top

(Image credit: REPORTERS ASSOCIES)

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.

The Fringe Jacket

The Fringe Jacket

(Image credit: H. Armstrong Roberts/ClassicStoc)

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.

The Head Scarf

The Head Scarf

(Image credit: Gianni Penati)

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.


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Sara Holzman
Style Director

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.