How to Dress ’70s Chic

Bohemian Style

Bohemian-style dresses, sometimes referred to as “hippie chic,” are loose, collarless and flowing and can range in the length from the mid-thigh to near the ankle. While modern Bohemian-style dresses borrow their look of the 1970’s hippie style and are often brightly colored with bold stripes or patterns, one major difference between the Bohemian style dresses from the 70’s and the ones on the runways today is the introduction of more sophisticated and earth friendly fabrics such as fabrics made of hemp.

Baby Doll Dress

Another blast from the past that has seen a major comeback is the baby doll dress. In the 1970’s, these feminine style dresses were usually made from cotton or satin fabrics, featured puffy style sleeves and were trimmed with lace. While short is still the key, modern renditions of the Baby Doll style include figure friendly, a-line designs that camouflage the mid-section. Additional updates to the look include the change from light fabrics to heavy, bulkier fabrics.

The Return of Evening Dresses

Evening wear has also seen the return of ’70s-style glamor and sex appeal. In the 1970’s evening dresses were typically long and flowing, puffy in the sleeves and highly detailed in sequins. Updated versions of 70’s inspired evening wear are sleeker in design and include deep, plunging neck lines and thigh-high slits. Other modern updates to the look include the addition of higher waists and the replacement of sequins with subtle, more sophisticated detailing.

Animal Prints

Animal prints are another ’70s fashion trend that has been revived in modern style. In the 70’s mid-thigh length tee-shirt dresses boasted wild animal images such as lions, leopards and zebras. Today’s versions are a bit more subtle and meant to be suitable for the office. Modern designs include bold, zebra or leopard print wrap style dresses that tie at the side of the waist. Edgier renditions include zebra print shirt dresses paired with leggings and belts around the waist for an urban, sophisticated look.