38 Vintage Photos Show What Women Wore in the 1970s

The 1970s saw a time of rising self-expression through fashion, with form-fitting silhouettes at the top and loose at the bottom. ’70s style was empowering as individuality became essential to dressing, and more women entered the workplace.

In the 1970s, women’s increased participation in the workforce had a significant impact on fashion trends. As young women began to take on more professional roles, they demanded stylish and functional clothing. Although women wore suits, they were usually paired with skirts rather than pants.

This was also the time of the rise of youth countercultures, with scenes like punk, hippy, disco, and glam rock standing out. During the 1970s, many young people earned a reputation as the “Me Generation” because of their culture’s intense focus on self-expression. This spirit of individualism heavily influenced the decade’s fashion trends in tangible and intangible ways.

Popular fabrics such as velvet, suede, and polyester were seen on the famous stars of the ’70s for both day and night wear. In its own way, ’70s fashion was a form of rebellion against traditional norms, giving each individual a sense of identity. This freedom in fashion changed the landscape for decades to come, creating a timeless legacy.

Take a look at these vintage photos to see what women wore in the 1970s.