Everyone knows the saying “what comes around, goes around,” and in fashion, it’s especially true. Trends always return—often decades later—ready to inspire a new generation. ‘70s fashion trends, just like those from the ‘60s, are back again. Now, fifty years later, the disco era is influencing today’s style. For instance, slim sneakers are trending again, with Adidas Sambas leading the way.
One of the best things about fashion is making trends your own. Of course, you can skip the ones you don’t like—no judgment! But sometimes, it’s fun to mix in styles from the past. The 1970s, for example, was a decade full of bold ideas and lasting influence. So, here are a few timeless ‘70s trends to inspire your next outfit.
A trouser suit by Yves Saint Laurent from February 1970Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 1970 collectionModels wear tights in June 1976American model Pat Evans wears oversized hoopsA model wears a velour jumpsuit by the ocean in Assateague Island, Virginia in 1971Christian Dior presents his “Diorling” collection on Jan. 14, 1970Bianca Jagger, Krissy Wood, and Lorna Luft attend a Rolling Stones’ concert in 1975The Glen Campbell Goodtime HourHarlequin-style trousers from March 1970A model poses in the Hamptons in 1972Ali McGraw wears a bohemian maxi dress, white tights with lace-up sandals on June 5, 1970Mick and Bianca Jagger at their wedding at the Church of St. Anne in St. Tropez on May 12, 1971Fashion models in brightly colored sports coats with matching hats and slacks from Guy Laroche’s fall/winter collections (1971-1972)Portrait of Italian actress and model Daniela Bianchi wearing a long printed dress in 1971Madonna in New York City, 1979Activist, journalist, and feminist leader Gloria Steinem attends a fundraiser and rally for California State Senate candidate Catherine O’Neill (in checked dress) on Oct. 15, 1972 in Los Angeles, CalifAmerican singer and showgirl Lola Falana stands on the stage of the TV showThe Shirelles perform onDiana Ross poses for a portrait session on July 16, 1975 in Los Angeles, CalifLauren Hutton at the 47th Academy Awards at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles, Calif. in 1975Diana Ross at the second annual Rock Music Awards on Sept. 18, 1976Vicki Hodge drinks champagne in London in 1970In a 1977 episode ofA woman wears leopard print in 1979, in Los AngelesAn editorial image of model Iman taken in 1977Cher poses wearing a Bob Mackie creation on April 9, 1978 in Los Angeles, CalifDisco star and model Grace Jones in 1977Cher poses in another Bob Mackie design on April 9, 1978 in Los Angeles, CalifJane Forth models in 1971Grace Jones wears a tiger-print outfit at the Park West in Chicago on Oct. 14, 1978Billie Blair models Oscar de la Renta in 1974American punk rock band Blondie in 1979. Clockwise from top left: guitarist Chris Stein, singer Debbie Harry, bass player Nigel Harrison, drummer Clem Burke, guitarist Frank Infante, and keyboardist Jimmy DestriCher is seen at Studio 54 in NYCA patchwork maxi dressFarrah Fawcett is seen on set in 1977 in Los AngelesDionne Warwick in the ’70sGoldie Hawn stands in a front garden, circa 1970The Pointer Sisters in Cannes, FranceBritish model Twiggy wears a white ankle-length dress with a fitted apron on the front, modeled after an ecclesiastical surplice, circa 1970. It was designed by Bill GibbA fashion editorial from the ’70sThe Millinery Institute of America showcases wide-brimmed hatsA crochet beach set inspired by Maltese fishermen’s netsCaroline Delevingne in a poncho, Earl Peel in a fur coat, and Suzanne Scott in a tiger skin coat trimmed at the bottom with white furTwo looks from a collection by iconic fashion designer CourrègesModels wear jackets and tights in New York City, 1973Portrait of an unidentified model, dressed in a matching brocade trouser suit and hatVicki Hodge wears a Loris Azzaro spider web dress in 1972Fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg and her then-husband, Austrian prince Egon von FurstenbergItalian TV presenter, actress, singer, and showgirl Raffaella Carrà wears a fringed swimsuitModel Hazel sports a patterned mini playsuit and platforms from Ossie Clark’s “Quorum” show in LondonModels wear trousers in the UK, 1972Twiggy and husband Justin de Villeneuve give a lesson in summer streetwear in July 1970Barbra Streisand channels a ’70s working girl on the set ofDonna Summer delivers floral and fur, circa 1976Meryl Streep redefines the chic morning walk in New York City, outside of the Public Theater in 1979Pam Grier glamorously lounges poolside in Los Angeles, circa 19751972, the UK, models wear jeans and hatsOlivia Newton-John smiles behind a pair of oversized sunglasses, circa 1970Diana Hanworth and Denise Healey, models, are seen in babydoll dresses in 1973Carrie Fisher complements her natural surroundings in denim and a pair of western-inspired boots in 1978
The 1960s truly swung—especially in fashion. First, Jackie Kennedy brought classic style with clean lines and soft pastel colors. Then, Mary Quant and the mods changed everything. They cut their hair short and made mini skirts a bold trend. Meanwhile, the space race inspired futuristic shift dresses with a modern look. At the same time, the hippie movement embraced peace, love, and boho outfits full of folk style. Clearly, there’s much more to explore about 1960s fashion!
A whirlwind recap of the decade, below.
Women’s Trends of the 1960s: The Mini Skirt Arrives
Never before had fashion revealed the knee. Even in the 1920s, flappers kept their knees hidden. However, after Christian Dior lowered hemlines in 1947, skirts slowly began to rise. Then, by the early 1960s, hemlines climbed even higher. Although 1964 is often called the year of the mini skirt, earlier designs paved the way. For example, Cristóbal Balenciaga’s sack dress from 1957 and 1958 hinted at what was coming.
Balenciaga’s sack dress
Did Mary Quant invent the mini skirt? Not exactly—but she made it popular. In 1964, her lace dress and affordable prices helped launch the trend. Then, her Mary Quant’s Ginger Group label made the style easy for young people to buy. At first, skirts just skimmed above the knee. But soon, the mini got shorter. By the late 1960s, micro-minis were everywhere. As a result, sheer stockings were out, and tights became the new must-have.
“Legs are still the focus—that’s the big news,” wrote Vogue on August 15, 1966. At the time, hemlines were rising fast. As a result, fashion welcomed a wide mix of skirt lengths. And for legs, it was all good news!
Mary Quant, foreground, with models, in her own creations, 1967Marisa Bernson wearing Valentino in Cy Twombly’s apartment in Rome.
Youth Is the New Black
“Youthquake 1965,” declared Vogue on January 1, 1965. At the time, over 90 million young people were reshaping fashion and culture. Coined by Diana Vreeland, the term captured a major shift. Gone were the days of couture queens. In their place came bold, leg-baring girls who loved rock music and lived for the now. As a result, fast fashion was born—with paper dresses, synthetic fabrics, and trendy looks made to wear and toss.
Synthetics Proliferate Fashion
In 1960, the U.S. passed the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act, which required clothing labels to list fiber content. Soon, new synthetic fabrics like Perspex, PVC, polyester, acrylic, nylon, rayon, and Spandex hit the market. Ready-to-wear brands quickly embraced them—especially those targeting young shoppers and busy households. These easy-care, no-iron clothes were a hit. Vogue even marked the moment with a fun article on April 15, 1965. It was truly the start of a new fashion era!
“What’s the hot ticket?” asked Vogue in 1965. Not a Broadway show—but the new fabric label on every dress made in America. Thanks to the Textile Act, each tag listed fiber content clearly, even down to the percentages. Suddenly, names like polyester, acrylic, and triacetate—once sounding like sci-fi—became familiar and trusted. Some clothes used all-natural fibers, others were fully synthetic, but most were smart blends offering the best of both worlds.
Photographed by Bert Stern,
The Jackie-Look
Not all women followed the youthquake trend. Some chose elegance over edge—and their style icon was Jackie Kennedy. While mini skirts and Mary Janes ruled youth fashion, Kennedy defined classic culture. Paris couture houses like Balmain, Balenciaga, and newcomer Givenchy offered refined looks with boxy yet tailored shapes. These designs echoed the Golden Age of Couture (1947–1957), now updated with sleeker lines but still crafted with care.
Skirt sets, trapeze silhouettes, and a prim, polished look were popularized by designers like Patou, Saint Laurent, and Pierre Cardin. In the U.S., Norman Norell, Oscar de la Renta for Elizabeth Arden, Chez Ninon, and Oleg Cassini—who became Kennedy’s personal designer—championed these styles.
Jacqueline Kennedy while attending a fashion show, 1962
A Pret-a-Porter and Retail Disruption
The Youthquake sparked a shift in the fashion world. More designers embraced prêt-à-porter, offering diffusion labels at lower prices. By 1959, Ungaro had licensed his name for a ready-to-wear line, and in 1963, Mary Quant launched her Ginger Group. Other designers like Jean Muir and John Bates also joined the ready-to-wear movement.
The rise of RTW designers brought a new shopping experience. Instead of just department stores or couture salons, boutiques became the heart of youth culture in London, New York, and Paris. In London, Biba’s art nouveau interiors on Abingdon Road attracted the Mods, while Carnaby Street featured menswear shops with fresh takes on classic styles. In New York, Betsy Johnson brought energy to Paraphernalia on Madison Avenue, offering affordable, bold pieces modeled by Edie Sedgwick.
On September 19, 1966, Yves Saint Laurent opened his ready-to-wear boutique, Saint Laurent Rive Gauche, in Paris. By doing so, he became the first couturier in France to launch a highly successful ready-to-wear line.
A customer at the Biba boutique in Abingdon Road, Kensington, London, March 1965Yves Saint Laurent and model Ulla outside the Rive Gauche store in Paris, 1966
1960s Beauty Trends
In beauty, the mod look was all about short, helmet-like hair. Vidal Sassoon’s asymmetric five-point cut for model Peggy Moffitt made a big splash, as did his iconic cut for Chinese-American actress Nancy Kwan.
Vogue raved on October 15, 1963: “We love the cut Nancy Kwan just received from Vidal Sassoon of London. As one of the masters of the new hair movement—believing hair should move and comb easily—this brilliant young hairdresser has a system he’ll share with anyone who asks.”
Mary Quant and Mia Farrow both rocked the mod look, with Farrow’s iconic pixie cut courtesy of Vidal Sassoon. For those not opting for a cropped style, youthful bangs were in—like Jean Shrimpton’s, full of volume and a flipped, ski-slope finish at the ends.
The cosmetics industry exploded during this time, with technology enabling mass production of eyeshadows, mascaras, and lipsticks. Eyes became the focal point, complemented by softer lipstick shades that highlighted bold lashes and kohl-rimmed eyes.
Mary Quant getting a trim Vidal Sassoon, 1964Photographed by Bert Stern, All Hail Saint Laurent
All Hail Saint Laurent
If one designer defined the 1960s, it was Yves Saint Laurent. Though his 1960 collection for Dior led to his dismissal—and a stint in the army for the Algerian War—it was revolutionary and ahead of its time. Dubbed the Beatnik collection, Saint Laurent drew inspiration from Paris’s bohemian Left Bank, blending biker jackets and artistic tunics in couture construction. He was among the first to recognize the influence of culture on fashion. By 1962, with the support of Pierre Bergé, he debuted his own collection under his name.
In just a few years, Saint Laurent revolutionized fashion with true icons. In 1965, he introduced the Mondrian-inspired shift dresses, proving he could outdo even Swinging London’s designers. In 1966, he debuted the gender-defying Le Smoking tuxedo for women. Then, in 1967, his safari-inspired collection, captured in a stunning Richard Avedon shot of Veruschka, made waves. And this was just the beginning for Saint Laurent.
Susan Moncur in Saint Laurent’s homage to Piet Mondrian cocktail dress, Fall 1965YSL’s “First” pantsuit, Spring 1967 Haute Couture
Enter: Space Age
While the U.S. landed on the moon in 1969, space-age fashion took off years earlier. Inspired by the era’s fascination with space exploration, designers like André Courrèges, Paco Rabanne, and Pierre Cardin embraced the “Atomic” style movement. Courrèges’ Spring/Summer 1964 Space Age collection featured silver vinyl, PVC moon girl outfits, astronaut hats, goggles, and mid-calf boots. In 1966, Cardin introduced pinafore dresses worn over slinky turtlenecks and knots, pushing fashion into the future.
Photographed by Franco Rubartelli,hotographed by William Klein,
Enter Hippie Culture
By the end of the 1960s, growing disapproval of the Vietnam War and a push for civil rights sparked a movement centered on peace and love. On college campuses, students protested the war, while in Alabama, the 1965 Selma Marches fought for Black Americans’ right to vote. In 1967, thousands of hippies gathered in San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury district for the Summer of Love. Then, in 1969, Woodstock became a landmark event in upstate New York. Fashion embraced bohemian maxi dresses in floral prints, loose, flowing silhouettes, and folkloric styles with Eastern European influences.
Initially, this aesthetic was seen as part of the sub-culture. However, by the mid-1970s, elements of the look began appearing on high-fashion runways.
Photographed by Patrick Lichfield,
Top Designers of the 1960s
Some of the most influential designers of the 1960s include Yves Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, André Courrèges, Paco Rabanne, Mary Quant, Barbara Hulanicki, Roberto Capucci, Pierre Balmain, Oleg Cassini, Rudi Gernreich, Norman Norell, Nettie Rosenstein, Vera Maxwell, Hubert de Givenchy, Emilio Pucci, Claire McCardell, Bonnie Cashin, Pauline Trigère, Hardy Amies, Norman Hartnell, and Pierre Cardin.
In the past, many believed wearing tights with sandals was a major fashion mistake—even in winter. However, this spring, fashion experts are confidently breaking that rule. After all, who better to set trends than industry insiders?
So now, tights with sandals are officially in style. Surprisingly, they’re not paired with the shoes you’d expect.
If you’ve ever worn tights with open-toe shoes, you likely played it safe with black stockings and strappy heels. While still a bit bold, this combo is quickly becoming mainstream—thanks to celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and stylish streetwear stars embracing the trend.
Lately, stylish women have taken the trend even further by wearing tights with unexpected shoes—even thong sandals once seen as off-limits.
Gala González in tights and flatTights and sandals on the streets of ParisAt Copenhagen Fashion WeekAnd in Milan
Former Man Repeller editor Leandra Medine rocked sheer black tights with thong sandals—yes, thong sandals. She completed the bold look with long black trouser shorts and a bright red jacket.
She’s not alone. Model Vittoria Ceretti and other street-style stars are also pairing their tights with thong sandals.
Vittoria Ceretti in Paris
At first, this combo might seem unexpected. But it’s actually a smart styling hack for transitional weather. It lets you pack away winter clothes and start wearing spring shorts, dresses, and sandals—while staying warm on cooler days. So go ahead and rock your tights with sandals confidently.
When I go to work at the FASHION office, I love wearing bold, quirky outfits. Usually, I start with unusual stockings. For example, I’ve worn lavender nylons with a grey blazer dress. Also, I’ve matched crimson tights with cream suede pieces. Sometimes, I mix olive green hosiery with a checkered skirt and a two-tone vest. As a result, my looks are loud and fun—even if minimalists might cringe. Still, I don’t care. Right now, I’m simply enjoying getting dressed every day.
It all began a year ago, when I challenged myself to wear red tights every day for a week—just for journalism. At first, it felt tough. But soon, I discovered a bold new side of my style. These days, when shopping feels tricky, I’ve realized one simple thing: red tights can instantly refresh any outfit.
I always turn to Canadian brand Sheertex for tights. They offer red, maroon, and bright blue options in their signature rip-resistant fabric. Plus, Montreal’s From Rachel has stylish shades too, like deep plum and rich coffee. To me, colorful tights open the door to full fashion creativity—and clearly, I’m not the only one.
During New York Fashion Week, bold stockings became part of my daily look. As I watched street style across fashion capitals, one thing stood out—colorful tights are everywhere. From Copenhagen’s playful dressers to Milan’s more muted crowd, vibrant legs are in. Everywhere I turn, outfits are bursting with bold pops of color. It’s fun. It’s quirky. It’s pure joy—and in 2025, we all need more of that.
Dua Lipa turned up the heat on Thursday as she rocked a sexy red bodysuit and fishnet tights. Plus, she struck sizzling poses for Instagram that grabbed everyone’s attention.
The 29-year-old Grammy winner looked stunning in a strappy mesh one-piece. She also paired it perfectly with matching tights for a bold, stylish look.
Dua boosted her height with red stilettos and added drama with a long matching fur coat. She let it drape off her shoulders as she posed confidently on the floor.
With her long dark hair styled in loose waves, Dua crouched on the floor. Then, she removed her coat to confidently show off her stunning figure.
Dua, currently on her Radical Optimism Tour in New Zealand, stunned fans as she posed backstage right before her show.
If Kate Moss says fishnets are back, then they must be!
On Friday night, the supermodel stepped out in London with fashion icons Donatella Versace, Claudia Schiffer, and Amber Valletta.
For the after-hours event, the British icon wore a silky black mini dress in timeless crepe. It featured a sleek halterneck, ruched draping, and a low-slung waistband, all radiating 2010s nostalgia.
Kate paired her party-girl dress with fishnet tights, proving this daring lingerie trend is back in style.
Fishnet tights have a rich history, dating back to the late 19th century when cabaret and burlesque performers made them iconic. In the 1920s, flappers embraced their bold allure. By the 1970s, they became a punk fashion statement, symbolizing both rebellion and elegance. So, it’s no surprise that Britain’s queen of playful style loves them too.
In the attitude of subverting mainstream fashion, punks and goths of the 1970s took control of the fishnet tights and made them more extreme by ripping more holes.
Statement socks are the next big wardrobe investment for fall 2025. This past fashion month, models stole the spotlight with bold hosiery choices. From Chanel to Rabanne to Valentino, designers elevated their looks with eye-catching socks—think vibrant colors, shimmering crystals, and dazzling sequins. Even off the runway, VIP guests and celebrities embraced the trend.
Socks may seem like a simple way to keep warm, but this season, they’re making a bold fashion statement. Designers proved they can be both fun and stylish. At Rabanne, chunky flats paired with silver sequin socks instantly gave outfits a party-ready vibe.
Rabanne Fall Winter 2025-26 Fashion Show
At Valentino, Alessandro Michele paired dainty strappy stilettos with bold green and red socks, instantly shifting the look from vampy to playful. The right statement socks can completely transform your outfit’s vibe and energy.
Front-row stars embraced the trend, too. At Miu Miu, Sydney Sweeney and Emma Corrin paired the brand’s below-the-knee socks with strappy pumps, adding a chic, fashion-forward touch.
Street style icons like Tamu McPherson, Chloe King, and Susie Lau elevated their looks by pairing designer heels and ballet flats with chunky or lurex socks.
Why invest in statement socks? Think of them as a small but impactful style upgrade. Your outfit may not need bold socks, but adding them instantly makes the look feel more polished and intentional. Like a great belt or bag, they’re a subtle yet delightful detail. Plus, since socks are a daily essential, why not choose a pair that stands out?
If Kate Moss says fishnets are back, then they’re definitely in style!
On Friday night, the supermodel stepped out in London with fashion icons like Donatella Versace, Claudia Schiffer, and Amber Valletta.
For the late-night event, the British icon wore a silky black mini dress with a sleek halterneck, ruched draping, and a low-slung waistband, channeling 2010s nostalgia.
Kate styled the party-girl dress with fishnet tights, proving this bold lingerie staple is making a comeback.
Fishnet tights have a rich history, dating back to the late 19th century when cabaret and burlesque performers made them iconic. In the 1920s, flappers embraced their bold appeal. By the 1970s, they became a punk fashion statement, blending rebellion with sophistication. So, it’s no surprise that the queen of British cheek loves them too.
In the attitude of subverting mainstream fashion, punks and goths of the 1970s took control of the fishnet tights and made them more extreme by ripping more holes.
As always, Myleene Klass looked stylish when she left Smooth Radio on Saturday. Moreover, she rocked glossy tights boldly printed with, “Mom, I am A Rich Man.”
The radio host, 46, also made a clear reference to singer Cher’s iconic 1996 interview quote.
Cher famously told Dateline NBC’s Jane Pauley that when her mom suggested she settle down and marry a rich man, she replied, “Mom, I am a rich man.”
Myleene made a bold fashion statement as she turned the streets of central London into her personal catwalk, wearing tights with the iconic quote.
The I’m A Celebrity alum showed off her long legs in a sporty dark mini skirt, pairing it with a top and a matching billowing blazer.
The TV personality showed off her expensive fashion taste, pairing her look with a black Chanel quilted bag and a leather Prada baseball cap.
She styled the cap under a classy headscarf and completed her outfit with black boots and orange-tinted shades.
Earlier, Myleene shared a close-up of her tights on Instagram Stories.
In one snap, she simply wrote ‘LOL’, while in another, she captioned, ‘Thighs the limit,’ with Cher’s hit Believe playing in the background.
Elsewhere, Myleene set pulses racing in a white bikini as she recreated her iconic I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here shower moment on Friday.
If Kate Moss says fishnets are back, then they must be!
