That '70s Show

Photo courtesy of Taschen

Between bell-bottom pants, turtle-necked shirts, and cheap polyester, the 1970s is labeled to be a decade that, needless to say, lacks in taste. However, for those of us who love fashion, we know this is not completely true. While the ‘70s definitely had moments of crazy “Saturday Night Fever” inspired style, what decade is fully above reproach?

For designers, the ‘70s holds a plethora of fashion inspiration. In Paris, during this time, Yves Saint Laurent was revolutionizing the way women were dressing. Famous for taking masculine pieces, such as trench coats or pants, and slimming them down to fit a feminine shape. Laurent broke barriers between sexes. “Yves was the most influential designer working in the ‘60s and ‘70s,” said Tom Ford, successor of YSL ready-to wear runway, in an interview with Today.

Bianca Jagger wearing a white pantsuit in 1979.
Photo courtesy of Getty.

Not only were designers revolutionizing the fashion world, but the women themselves played a vital role. Take for instance, Jackie Kennedy Onassis, who set the fashion standard as the First Lady with her clean suites and sleeveless A-line dress. And women like Bianca Jagger who showed us that wearing a hat could be glamorous. It’s no wonder that the ‘70s pulled inspiration from silhouettes and styles of the ‘40s—a decade celebrated for its timeless and classic appeal.

For spring 2011 fashions, the ‘70s are making a comeback. Designers like Tory Burch and Hannah MacGibbon for Chloe are drawing off ‘70s-inspired tailored jackets, feminine blouses, high waist pants, and platforms. ABC News describes MacGibbon’s spring collection, as “romantic, casual, sexy, bohemian, boyish and seventies-tinged style has never looked better.”

Seventies-inspired dress from Tory Burch's
Spring 2011 Collection.

It seems to me that the ‘70s are one of the most reinvented decades for fashion inspiration. Now, when I feel the urge to wear my high-waist jeans in public, I do not have to feel as if I am on my way to Studio 54, but rather tipping my hat to past fashionistas.