1970s-Inspired Vintage Style: How to Wear It Today
The 1970s produced some of fashion’s most recognisable ideas: flared trousers, warm earth tones, tactile suede, wide collars, patterned shirts and expressive knitwear. The easiest way to wear those influences today is to borrow the shapes and textures you enjoy without trying to recreate an entire period outfit.
RMAR Vintage Limited is a London-based online vintage shop serving customers across the UK and worldwide through eBay. This guide explores practical ways to build 1970s-inspired vintage style while keeping an outfit useful, personal and modern.
Start with one strong 1970s-inspired shape
A single recognisable silhouette gives an outfit direction. High-waisted flared trousers, a long-line coat, a fitted roll-neck or a softly structured suede jacket can all create the mood without overwhelming the wearer.
Let the strongest shape lead. If the trousers are wide or flared, keep the upper half neater. If the coat has volume, choose a simpler line underneath. This balance makes period-inspired clothing easier to combine with pieces already in your wardrobe.
Use an earthy colour palette
Brown, rust, camel, mustard, cream, olive and deep green naturally work together and suit the textures associated with 1970s style. You do not need to wear every shade at once. Two neutrals and one richer colour usually create a more considered result.
Cream with chocolate brown for a clean, warm base.
Forest green with camel or tan for depth.
Rust with dark denim for an easy everyday combination.
Mustard used as one accent rather than the whole outfit.
Burgundy with brown leather for a softer alternative to black.
Build interest through texture
Texture is central to a convincing 1970s-inspired outfit. Corduroy, suede, velvet, leather, denim and chunky knitwear catch the light differently and bring depth even when the colours are restrained.
Try pairing one tactile outer layer with a smoother shirt or fine knit. A corduroy jacket over a cream roll-neck feels distinctive but remains simple. Suede can soften dark denim, while a velvet blazer can add character to plain trousers.
Choose flares with proportion in mind
Flared trousers vary from a gentle bootcut to a much wider hem. A subtle flare is often the easiest starting point because it works with familiar shirts, knitwear and jackets. A stronger flare creates more drama and benefits from a defined waist.
When buying online, compare the waist, rise, inside leg, thigh and hem opening with trousers you already own. The hem should work with the footwear you intend to wear, and the rise should place the waistband where you feel comfortable.
Wear patterned shirts without looking like costume
Paisley, geometric and abstract patterns can introduce the decade quickly. Keep the rest of the outfit quieter so the print has space. A patterned shirt with brown trousers and a plain jacket often feels more wearable than matching several prints together.
Collar shape also matters. A wider collar can sit neatly over a jacket or waistcoat, but it does not need extra accessories to make an impact.
Use accessories to control the mood
A wide leather belt, patterned scarf, amber-toned brooch, structured handbag or simple boots can add a 1970s reference to an otherwise modern outfit. Accessories are useful when you want the influence to feel subtle.
Use one wide belt to define the waist.
Choose boots that sit cleanly beneath a flared hem.
Repeat one colour from a patterned shirt in a scarf or bag.
Keep jewellery simple when fabric and print are already strong.
Avoid adding every period reference to the same outfit.
Mix vintage-inspired pieces with modern basics
A modern cream T-shirt, plain roll-neck, simple denim or clean footwear can make a statement vintage piece easier to wear. Mixing eras also prevents an outfit from feeling like fancy dress. The aim is not historical accuracy; it is to find shapes and materials that still work for you.
Check condition before buying vintage online
Suede, leather, corduroy and knitwear all show age differently. Study close-up photographs and read the condition description carefully. Check high-wear areas such as cuffs, elbows, hems, pockets, fastenings and linings. Natural softening or fading may add character, while weakened fabric or failed construction can affect usefulness.
A quick 1970s-inspired styling checklist
Begin with one strong silhouette or texture.
Keep the colour palette connected and wearable.
Balance flared or voluminous shapes with neater layers.
Compare garment measurements rather than relying only on labels.
Use accessories as accents, not a checklist.
Choose pieces that work with clothing you already own.
Discover vintage style online from London
Explore RMAR Vintage collections for considered pre-owned clothing and vintage finds, or visit the official RMAR eBay shop to see current listings. Availability changes because every pre-owned item is individual.
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