The Essential 1970s Accessories: A Dive into Fashion Trends of the Decade

The 1970s was a transformative decade in fashion, where self-expression, rebellion, and creativity took center stage. Accessories were crucial in defining the distinctive styles of the decade, from boho chic to disco glamour. Whether you’re exploring this iconic era for inspiration, looking to add vintage flair to your wardrobe, or simply intrigued by the historical evolution of fashion, this deep dive into 1970s accessories will transport you back in time to a world of bold statements and eclectic flair.

1. The Bohemian Influence: Natural Materials and Earthy Tones

Key Accessories:

• Beaded Jewelry: Necklaces, bracelets, and even belts made from wooden, bone, or ceramic beads were popular. The longer and more layered the necklaces, the better, reflecting the free-spirited ethos of the time.
• Headbands and Scarves: A defining accessory for both men and women, headbands were often made from leather, suede, or fabric, worn across the forehead or around the hair. They were a symbol of rebellion against mainstream fashion, exuding a laid-back, natural vibe.
• Leather and Suede Accessories: Leather belts, bags, and shoes, often featuring fringes or braided details, became essential to the boho look. This was not the polished leather seen in the business world but rather rustic, earthy tones with a more raw finish.

The boho chic aesthetic was about connecting with nature, and accessories played a huge part in this. Jewelry was handmade, clothes were loose and flowing, and the color palette was dominated by earthy hues like browns, deep reds, oranges, and greens.

2. Disco Fever: Flashy, Bold, and Glamorous

Key Accessories:

Bold Statement Jewelry: Huge hoop earrings, chunky bracelets, and oversized necklaces made from gold or silver metals became the go-to accessories for the disco scene. Rhinestones and sequins also adorned many accessories, reflecting the dazzling disco ball lighting.

Platform Shoes: Arguably one of the most iconic accessories of the decade, platform shoes were worn by both men and women. Ranging from simple leather platforms to glittering, rhinestone-covered designs, these shoes became synonymous with disco fashion. The higher the platform, the better.

Disco accessories were all about making a statement. This was a time when self-expression through fashion reached its peak, and there were no rules—people wore what made them feel fabulous, whether that meant gold lamé, sequins, or feathers.

3. Feminist Fashion: The Power of Practical Accessories

The 1970s was also a period of significant social change, particularly regarding women’s rights. The feminist movement gained momentum, and this was reflected in fashion choices, with a shift toward practicality and empowerment.

Key Accessories:

Functional Bags: Unlike the dainty handbags of previous decades, the 1970s saw women embracing larger, more functional bags. Shoulder bags with long straps allowed for hands-free convenience, symbolizing the growing independence and mobility of women.

Feminist fashion in the 1970s emphasized function over form. Accessories were meant to be practical and convenient, but this didn’t mean they lacked style. Instead, these pieces fused utility with a modern, chic aesthetic that helped women feel empowered in their day-to-day lives.

4. Men’s Accessories: From Dapper to Daring

The 1970s wasn’t just about women’s fashion—men’s fashion also took some bold strides. While earlier decades were more reserved, the ’70s saw men embracing bright colors, bold patterns, and flamboyant accessories.

Key Accessories:

• Wide Ties: Known as “kipper ties,” these bold and often gaudy neckties were wide, colorful, and featured loud patterns. They became a signature accessory for men in the business world who wanted to add a touch of personality to their attire.

Belts with Large Buckles: Men’s belts became more than just functional—they were a fashion statement. Large belt buckles featuring intricate designs, initials, or even logos became a way for men to express their individuality.

Men’s fashion accessories in the 1970s were daring and flamboyant, reflecting the broader cultural shifts toward breaking gender norms and allowing for more creative expression in fashion.

5. Iconic Brands and Designers of the 1970s

Several brands and designers emerged during the 1970s, making their mark with unique accessories that defined the decade.

• Tiffany & Co.: While Tiffany had been around for over a century, its popularity soared in the ’70s thanks to Elsa Peretti. Her sleek and modern jewelry designs, like the bone cuff and open heart necklace, became iconic pieces of the decade.
• Gucci: Gucci belts with the signature double G logo became a must-have accessory in the ’70s, symbolizing wealth and status. Gucci’s luxury leather bags and shoes also became synonymous with sophistication.
• Bvlgari: Bvlgari introduced bold, colorful jewelry featuring oversized gemstones during the ’70s. These pieces, often seen on Hollywood celebrities, helped establish the brand as a leading name in luxury jewelry.
• Monet and Napier: These brands became household names for affordable, high-quality costume jewelry. They offered bold designs that allowed women to embrace the latest trends without breaking the bank.

6. Lesser-Known Facts About 1970s Accessories

While the broad strokes of 1970s fashion are well-known, there are some lesser-known, fun facts about accessories from this decade:

The Return of Pearls: While pearls are often associated with older, more traditional styles, they had a surprising resurgence in the ’70s thanks to designers like Vivienne Westwood. Pearls were layered in unconventional ways, making them more accessible and fashionable for younger women.

DIY Accessories: The 1970s was the golden era of do-it-yourself fashion. People often made their own jewelry from beads, leather, and feathers, reflecting the decade’s embrace of individuality and creativity.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of 1970s Accessories

The accessories of the 1970s were as varied and dynamic as the decade itself. From the earthy, handmade pieces of the bohemian movement to the glitz and glamour of the disco era, the accessories of this time reflected the social and cultural changes happening across the world. Today, many of these accessories—platform shoes, aviator sunglasses, gold chains—remain iconic, influencing contemporary fashion in exciting ways.

The 1970s accessories trend proves that fashion is cyclical, and many elements of this decade continue to inspire designers, stylists, and fashion enthusiasts. Whether you’re embracing the free-spirited vibe of boho chic or the bold sparkle of disco glamour, the 1970s offers a treasure trove of inspiration for anyone looking to make a stylish statement.