Hippie fashion has been a major influence on the clothing industry since the 1970s.
During this time, hippies began to adopt a more carefree and relaxed approach to their wardrobes, with an emphasis on natural fabrics and vibrant colors. This style was often referred to as “hippie chic” or “bohemian”.
The most iconic pieces of what did hippies wear in the 70s were bright tie-dye t-shirts and bell-bottom jeans. The look was completed by flowing maxi dresses for women, usually made out of lightweight cotton or linen fabric.
Women also wore fringed leather vests over their dresses and floral headbands around their heads, while men opted for unbuttoned shirts that exposed their chest hair.
Denim jackets were also popular among both sexes at this time; they could be worn open or closed depending on the weather conditions.
Footwear was typically composed of sandals with thick soles for men and ankle boots for women; sometimes paired with patterned socks that reached above the calf length (also known as “knee highs”).
Accessories such as handbags made from patchwork cloth, bandanas tied around necks/wrists/waistlines, sunglasses round in shape, and long necklaces adorned with feathers & beads–these all gave hippies their unique aesthetic during this era.
One of the main characteristics that set apart hippie fashion from other trends is its focus on comfort rather than appearance.
Instead of striving to make a statement through flashy items like many contemporary styles do today–hippies prioritized comfortability over everything else when it came to selecting outfits each day; even if it meant sacrificing some elements of traditional beauty standards like high heels or overly tailored garments.
Environmental sustainability played an important role in these choices: people would upcycle materials like denim scraps into something new instead of buying clothes freshly manufactured from factories which require resources & energy consumption in order to produce them – another example being how they’d use vintage accessories found at secondhand stores rather than purchasing brand new one’s off shelves directly (which can save money too.).
A Trip Back to the 70s: Exploring Hippie Fashion Trends
The 1970s saw a revolution in fashion, particularly amongst the hippie counterculture. While bell bottoms, tie-dye shirts, and bandanas were some of the most popular items worn by this group, there was more to their wardrobe than these iconic pieces.
Denim jackets and vests with intricate embroidery added a touch of boho chic to any outfit while colorful Indian kurtas paired with chunky wooden jewelry provided an Eastern aesthetic.
Embellished peasant blouses also became widely adopted by hippies as they embraced their free-spirited style.
Flower power was everywhere during this era and floral prints were all over maxi dresses, skirts, and accessories alike.
Floral patterns found on fabrics like velvet added texture as well as vibrant hues that made any ensemble stand out from the crowd. The traditional sari dress also gained traction among hippies who adopted its eye-catching draping silhouettes for daywear or evening wear looks alike.
Fringed leather jackets and suede coats gave off a retro vibe that fits perfectly into the laid-back lifestyle of many 70s-era hippies. This trend extended beyond clothing; fringed bags could be seen dangling from shoulders or used to store essential items such as incense sticks or small crystals when on festival trips away from home base. Platform shoes came into fashion too for both men and women – although it was mainly groovy gals sporting platforms adorned with peace signs which really grabbed attention at parties or concerts!
Groovy and Bold: Key Characteristics of Hippie Fashion
In the 70s, hippie fashion was all about standing out from the crowd and making a statement. Colorful prints and bold patterns made up a majority of clothing pieces worn by those who identified with this subculture. The vibrancy of their clothing choices was meant to show that they weren’t afraid to be themselves and rebel against traditional societal norms.
Bell bottoms were an essential piece for any self-proclaimed hippie. Not only did these pants offer comfort, but also gave off a groovy vibe when paired with patterned or tie-dye shirts as well as headbands or long necklaces. Popular brands such as Levi’s helped shape this trend, which became iconic among those in the movement during this time period. Fringe jackets added another layer of flair to complete looks and take it one step further than just bell bottoms alone.
Platform shoes had become a mainstay by then too – usually in bright colors like yellow or red – alongside maxi skirts that hung down past mid-calf length. This look was often finished off with some sort of unique accessory like dangling earrings, beaded bracelets, or wide-brimmed hats – which served both fashion and practical purposes since they could help protect skin from direct sunlight exposure on hot days spent outside protesting injustices at peace rallies across the country.
The Impact of Disco on 1970s Hippie Fashion
The 1970s saw a seismic shift in fashion, and the hippie movement was no exception. While free-flowing bell bottoms, peasant blouses, and long skirts were staples of their wardrobe prior to the decade’s onset, disco brought about an entirely new set of trends for hippies to embrace.
Sparkly metallic fabrics became popular among men and women alike as they sought to capture the flashy aesthetic of discotheques around the world. Fitted jumpsuits were also popularized during this time; often accompanied by wide-brimmed hats or oversized sunglasses that served as a nod to glam rock sensibilities. Bell bottoms continued to be worn but began to take on a more tailored shape with fitted waistlines as opposed to their traditionally loose fit.
Perhaps one of the most iconic looks associated with 1970s hippie fashion is its vibrant color palette – think oranges, yellows, reds, and purples – which could be found adorning everything from maxi dresses and kimonos down to headbands and jewelry. Although it may have been inspired by psychedelia from years before, there’s no denying that disco played an important role in making these shades fashionable once again after decades out of style.
Flares and Bell Bottoms: The Iconic Silhouettes of Hippie Fashion
Flares and bell bottoms were the most iconic silhouettes of 70s hippie fashion. The bold, wide-legged trousers made a statement in an era of experimentation with all aspects of style. These trousers instantly became associated with hippies and free spirits who embraced them for their comfort and distinctiveness. They came in a variety of fabrics such as denim, corduroy, or velvet and could be paired with everything from simple t-shirts to intricately embroidered tops to create fashionable ensembles that expressed individual personality.
The bright colors often found on flares and bell bottoms also added to their popularity among the flower power generation; vibrant oranges, pinks, yellows, blues – you name it.
Contrasting stitching was used to further embellish these garments as well as draw attention to the flared leg design which was considered essential for achieving true hippie flair.
Accessories such as layered necklaces or peace sign earrings provided even more ways for individuals to express themselves through fashion while staying within the overall spirit of 70s counterculture aesthetics.
At the time they were originally released onto mainstream markets in 1969 by brands like Jordache and Gloria Vanderbilt jeans, flares had already become popular among younger generations who saw them as part of a growing trend towards liberated expressionism through clothing choices rather than conforming traditional dress codes imposed by authority figures such as parents or teachers at school.
Platform Shoes: The Must-Have Footwear for the Hippie Fashion of the 1970s
Platform shoes were a staple of the 70s hippie style. With their extra-thick soles and chunky heels, they offered an eye-catching way to add some height while still looking fashionable. Platforms often featured intricate designs, such as bold colors or patterns, that allowed wearers to express themselves through their footwear. Platforms provided comfort in comparison with more traditional styles due to the cushioning of the sole.
As one would expect from a fashion trend associated with hippies in the 70s, platform shoes could be found in abundance at music festivals and other events where self-expression was encouraged. Music acts like The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin famously wore these statement pieces on stage during live performances; this only added fuel to the fire of platform shoe popularity throughout this era. Even nonconformist icons like David Bowie could be seen wearing them offstage for his daily activities.
Today’s fashion scene has been heavily influenced by styles from past decades; it’s no surprise that platform shoes are having a major resurgence in 2021. While modern versions may lack some of those quintessential ’70s details – such as psychedelic prints or colored leather – they remain iconic pieces that will never go out of style.
Hot Pants: Short Shorts and the Rise of Summer Fashion
The 1970s was a time of rebellion, as the hippie movement made its mark on society. A big part of that statement came in the form of fashion. Summer wardrobes saw an explosion of color and pattern with bright colors and floral patterns taking center stage for both genders. For women, one item which became synonymous with this era was hot pants; short shorts were designed to be worn during warmer weather months.
These tiny shorts first appeared around 1969-1970, although their popularity didn’t explode until later on in the decade when they began appearing in mainstream media outlets such as magazines and TV shows. During this period they were typically made from thin fabrics such as denim or polyester satin, often printed with vivid colors or bold prints. They soon became associated with female sexuality and freedom thanks to their extremely short length that barely covered anything at all – making them a provocative addition to any outfit.
In many ways these garments represented something much larger than just clothing; they symbolized the rising power of women within society who wanted more control over their own bodies and how they expressed themselves through fashion choices. Hot pants quickly became popular among young people looking to make a statement about gender equality – even if it was only done by wearing a pair of very revealing shorts.
The Enduring Legacy of Hippie Fashion in Today’s Fashion Trends
The 1970s hippie fashion is having a resurgence in the 21st century. What was once deemed outlandish and rebellious has become fashionable and mainstream, with many modern-day designers taking inspiration from this iconic era. From bell-bottom jeans to peasant blouses, paisley prints to macramé maxi dresses, the bohemian style continues to influence today’s trendsetters.
Modern designers have taken these retro elements of hippie fashion and incorporated them into new pieces that blend classic silhouettes with contemporary materials. Bell bottom jeans are now made from high-quality denim, while lace-up boots are available in all sorts of styles – both practical and stylish – perfect for completing any outfit. Bohemian-inspired jewelry such as chokers, necklaces, and bracelets add a touch of 70s glamour to any look; plus patchwork jackets help bring an edgy element to the mix too.
When it comes to hairstyles too there’s plenty that remains relevant today: braids can be seen everywhere from festivals through streetwear looks; long hair tied back or adorned with flowers still give off those ethereal vibes; even fringes have been given an update for 2020 – but they still retain their boho charm. It seems that hippies’ love of color, texture, and pattern lives on in current trends – something we should definitely embrace wholeheartedly!
Conclusion
So, there you have it, folks – a groovy trip down memory lane, exploring the iconic trends of the 1970s hippie fashion. This era of free love and self-expression saw a delightful mishmash of styles, from the laid-back, late 1960s hippie look to the more glamorous disco vibes that defined the decade. Bell bottoms, tie-dye, and flowy caftans were all the rage, while mini skirts and floppy hats made a bold fashion statement.
Hippie culture was all about breaking away from the conservative styles of the 1950s and 1960s and embracing a more relaxed wardrobe. Cher, Vivienne Westwood, and other fashion icons from the 60s and 70s helped shape the decade’s fashion landscape, popularizing garments like halter tops, tunics, and flared trousers. Hair was often worn long, with many opting for natural styles and accessorizing with flowing scarves or brightly colored headbands.
In the 70s, fashion wasn’t just about looking good – it was a way for people to express their beliefs and values. With themes of peace, love, and sexual liberation, the hippie trend was a powerful force that helped redefine popular fashion. As the decade wore on, disco took center stage, ushering in an era of glamorous clothes, leisure suits, and jersey-wrap dresses that were all about having a good time.
From vintage clothing to the more modern twists on hippie style, the 1970s remain a treasure trove of fashion inspiration. So, whether you’re donning a tie-dye shirt or rocking a pair of bell bottoms, remember that the spirit of the hippie movement lives on through the clothes we wear and the messages we convey. Keep on groovin’, and stay true to your roots!
People Also Ask
What were the key elements of 70s hippie fashion, and how did they differ from other trends of the era?
The 70s hippie fashion was all about self-expression, bright colors, and groovy patterns. Key elements included tie-dye, kaftans, long flowing hair, and a variety of accessories like headbands and capes. This fashion craze was a stark contrast to the glamorous disco look that also emerged in the late 60s and early 70s, with its glitzy outfits, close-fitting clothes, and high-heeled shoes.
How did the hippie movement influence fashion in the 1970s, and what inspired their unique style?
The hippie movement had a significant impact on 70s fashion, as people sought to express their beliefs and values through clothing. The hippie style was heavily influenced by a desire for peace, love, and freedom, often drawing inspiration from Eastern cultures and the late 1960s counterculture movement. This led to a fashion revolution, with men and women wearing bold patterns, bright colors, and comfortable, flowing garments that exuded a sense of harmony and unity.
Were there any specific hairstyles or accessories that were popular among hippies in the 1970s?
Hippies in the 1970s often wore their hair long, with some sporting facial hair like mustaches and beards as a symbol of rebellion and freedom. Hair accessories, such as headbands, bandanas, and flower crowns, were also popular for both men and women. In terms of footwear, the shoes ranged from sandals and moccasins to boots, depending on the individual’s personal style and preference. Accessories like peace sign necklaces, fringed bags, and beaded bracelets also helped complete the quintessential hippie look.