The 1970s and 1980s were some of the most influential fashion decades of all time, with anything from bohemian chic and disco glam to punk rock rebellion and power dressing.
Take a time machine back in time to explore some of the iconic trends in the 70s and 80s that reflected changing behaviors, global influences, and the spirit of self-expression. These fashionable photos perfectly encapsulate how people dressed and expressed themselves in eras where a lot was changing.
Flower Power
The 1970s saw the tail end of the hippie movement, where many wore bohemian fashion that was all about freedom, nature, and anti-establishment.
The flowing fabrics, earthy tones, and floral motifs were important features of this fashion trend that was part of an important movement, symbolizing more than just rejection of the “then” modern fashion that was taking root.
Iranian Models
This photo showcases the vibrant patterns and global reach that 1970s fashion started having on the world. The garments and intricate prints show the fascination that the fashion world had with ethnic and folk clothing.
Fashion opened up in the 70s and became a multicultural sector, with designers borrowing influences from all over the world and blending the result into a cutting-edge piece of fashion while respecting traditions.
Fur Models In A Train
There was another trend in 1980s fashion that showed off the extravagant side of life with overcoats made entirely of fur, which represented luxury and wealth.
The models are posed confidently in the train compartment, epitomizing the 1980s intrigue with shameless wealth and boldness. Today, fashion brands are more ethically conscious, and most use faux fur to achieve the same look while being “animal friendly.”
New Romantic Style
This photo shows the flair of New Romantic Fashion that influential music artist Alice Bag wore in the early 1980s.
This look blends older themes from both Hollywood and history into a modern package. The New Romantic style was for those who wanted to stand out among the crowd through a sense of romantic rebellion.
Permed Hair
Permed hair became a fashion statement in the late 1970s and dominated by the 80s. Most hairstyles incorporated straight hair, while the perm welcomed voluminous waves and curls.
Perms made the hair appear much more full and had a variety of styles. This photo shows a typical perm of the 1980s. Many women sought perms after seeing celebrities from the time wearing them. They were a fashion statement that anyone could achieve.
Frans Molenaar Minidress And Jacket
This mini dress and jacket show a shift from 60s fashion to more energetic and youthful silhouettes. Tailoring in the 1970s started to stray away from strict male and female tailoring, embracing androgynous fashion like broader shoulders for women and baggier clothing for men.
Frans Molenaar designed many pieces that swayed fashion followers to dress in more versatile and easy-wearing pieces.
African Lace VLM 31
As fashion became a widespread phenomenon around the world, clothing emerged, which showed the influence that African fashion had on the 1970s style. Bold colors and patterns followed by lacework showcase beautiful artisanal techniques at play.
Fashion was more inclusive than ever in the 1970s as designers sought inspiration from a wide range of diverse cultures. The 1970s saw vibrant diversity, cultural heritage, and exquisite craftsmanship.
Acid-Washed Jeans
Jeans have been a part of the fashion world for decades, and the 1980s saw acid-washed jeans rising in popularity after becoming icons of surfer culture and the punk scene.
The bleached denim showcased how the era wasn’t afraid to do a bit of experimentation and build further upon already established trends. These jeans were part of an easy-going style that could be adapted and worn with nearly anything else.
Madonna’s Style
The 1980s saw bold changes, and one of them was Madonna’s iconic look from the era. The model showcases how she dressed, wearing layered and heavily accessorized clothing that turned heads and caught on like wildfire.
The fashion that Madonna wore called on young women and empowered them through looks of playful rebellion. Her fashion represents self-expression, confidence, and pop trends.
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