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1970s
1970s

Fashion in the 70s saw a wide variety of trends, from folk to disco to punk. The influence of disco was seen widely in fitted lycra clothing, flares and hotpants. For some, fashion became more natural, in line with a more ethical lifestyle. The hippy looks were reworked with a folksy feel. Hemlines fell and shapes and structures became more relaxed. Designers took inspiration from traditional crafts such as weaving, knitting and tapestry. Collaborations became more popular — designers such as Ossie Clark and Celia Birtwell worked together. And the famous designer Vivienne Westwood lead the punk movement.


Key features of the decade:

  • Disco (flares, hotpants, wraparounds) and punk looks
  • Folk style included blouses, frills, maxi skirts, floral prints, knits, lacing, patchwork and waistcoats
  • Eastern influences (kaftans, kimonos, prints)
  • Jumpsuits and bodystockings
  • Prints included florals, geometrics and stripes

Shop women’s clothes from the 1970s
1960s

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