By Prem Sagar 
70s Hippy Fashion: A Comprehensive Guide to Iconic Style
The 1970s was a decade of radical change, both socially and politically. Among the most influential cultural movements during this time was the hippy movement, which gave rise to a fashion revolution that continues to inspire today. Hippy fashion was all about freedom, peace, and individuality, reflected in the loose, colorful, and unconventional clothing choices of the time. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of 70s hippy fashion, exploring its key elements, iconic trends, and how you can still incorporate these groovy looks into your wardrobe today.
The Origins of 70s Hippy Fashion
Hippy fashion didn’t just appear out of nowhere—it was a reflection of the social and political landscape of the time. The late 60s and early 70s saw a surge in counterculture movements, with young people rejecting the materialism and conformity of the post-World War II era. Hippies embraced peace, love, and self-expression, and this was reflected in their clothing.
Key Influences:
- The Peace Movement: In response to the Vietnam War, many young people adopted the peace symbol and wore clothing that communicated their opposition to war and violence.
- Psychedelic Culture: The rise of psychedelic music, especially with bands like The Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane, influenced fashion with its bold, bright colors and swirling patterns.
- Bohemian Ideals: Inspired by the bohemian lifestyle, hippies favored clothing that was natural, unstructured, and handmade. They rejected the rigid, formal clothing styles of the past in favor of something more relaxed and organic.
Iconic 70s Hippy Fashion Trends
1. Bell-Bottom Jeans
Bell-bottom jeans, also known as flared pants, were one of the most recognizable fashion items of the 70s. These pants were tight at the waist and thighs and flared dramatically from the knee down, creating a distinct silhouette. They became a symbol of rebellion and individualism, allowing people to express their freedom of choice.
How to Wear Them:
- For a Boho Look: Pair bell-bottom jeans with a loose blouse, fringe vest, and a pair of sandals or boots.
- For a Glamorous Vibe: Combine with a fitted top, chunky jewelry, and high heels for a more elevated style.
2. Tie-Dye
Tie-dye was a colorful, fun, and psychedelic trend that became a hallmark of hippy fashion. Clothing was often hand-dyed in swirling patterns of bright colors, reflecting the psychedelic music and culture of the time.
How to Wear It:
- For a Casual Look: Wear a tie-dye T-shirt with distressed jeans or shorts.
- For a Festival Vibe: Layer a tie-dye dress with a fringed shawl and accessorize with peace sign jewelry.
3. Fringe and Suede
Fringe and suede were staples in the 70s hippy wardrobe, often seen on jackets, vests, and accessories. The soft, natural texture of suede, combined with the playful movement of fringe, evoked a carefree, Western-inspired look.
How to Wear It:
- For a Full Outfit: Opt for a fringe suede vest paired with a long, flowing skirt or bell-bottoms.
- For Accessories: Choose fringe bags, boots, or belts to add subtle hippy flair to any outfit.
4. Floral Prints
Floral patterns were popular in 70s hippy fashion, as they symbolized a connection to nature. These prints were often bold and oversized, with bright hues that evoked a sense of optimism and joy.
How to Wear It:
- For a Bohemian Vibe: Choose a floral maxi dress, paired with a wide-brimmed hat and oversized sunglasses.
- For a More Subtle Approach: A floral blouse or tunic worn with denim jeans or shorts was a popular look.
5. Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses became synonymous with 70s hippy fashion. These long, flowing dresses were often made from natural materials like cotton and featured floral prints, lace, and ruffles, offering both comfort and style.
How to Wear It:
- For a Day Look: Pair a floral maxi dress with flat sandals, a floppy hat, and large sunglasses.
- For Evening: Opt for a more embellished dress with metallic jewelry and heeled boots.
The Key Elements of 70s Hippy Fashion
1. Loose and Comfortable Fits
The hallmark of 70s hippy fashion was the rejection of tight, restrictive clothing. Everything was about comfort, from loose blouses and oversized sweaters to wide-legged trousers and flowing skirts.
2. Natural and Earthy Materials
Hippies embraced materials that were natural and sustainable. Cotton, linen, and suede were commonly used for clothing, while wool and leather were often found in accessories.
3. Vibrant Colors and Patterns
Hippy fashion was known for its bold and eclectic mix of colors and patterns. Psychedelic prints, tie-dye, and florals were key to the style. Bright oranges, yellows, and greens dominated, as well as earthy tones like browns, reds, and mustard.
4. Accessories
Accessories were crucial in completing a 70s hippy look. Wide-brimmed hats, scarves, peace sign jewelry, and beaded necklaces were just a few of the popular choices. Leather sandals, moccasins, and fringe bags also played an important role in the overall aesthetic.
Important Icons of 70s Hippy Fashion
1. Jane Birkin
The British-French actress and singer was an icon of 70s bohemian style. Birkin was known for her relaxed, effortless looks, often seen in oversized sweaters, flowing skirts, and natural fabrics.
2. Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell, a folk singer-songwriter, was a key influence on the 70s hippy fashion scene. Her bohemian style, characterized by fringed shawls, ethnic prints, and flowing dresses, continues to be a source of inspiration today.
3. Syd Barrett
Syd Barrett, a founding member of Pink Floyd, epitomized the psychedelic side of 70s fashion. His eclectic style, with its mix of bright colors, layers, and experimental patterns, reflected the surreal and innovative nature of the music he created.
70s Hippy Fashion: How to Incorporate It Into Your Wardrobe Today
While 70s hippy fashion might seem like something from the past, it’s easy to incorporate elements of this iconic style into your modern wardrobe. Here are a few tips:
- Mix and Match: Combine vintage hippy pieces with more contemporary items to create a balanced look.
- Focus on Accessories: If you’re not ready to fully embrace the 70s aesthetic, start with accessories like wide-brimmed hats, peace sign jewelry, or a fringed bag.
- Go for Comfort: Embrace the loose fits and natural fabrics that define the hippy style. Look for flowy skirts, oversized shirts, and casual dresses.
- Embrace Color: Don’t be afraid to experiment with bright colors and bold patterns, whether it’s through a tie-dye T-shirt, floral prints, or a psychedelic-inspired accessory.
Table: Key Elements of 70s Hippy Fashion
| Element | Description | How to Wear It |
|---|---|---|
| Bell-Bottom Jeans | Flared pants that became a symbol of the era’s rebellion. | Pair with a loose blouse and boots for a retro vibe or dress them up with a fitted top and heels. |
| Tie-Dye | Swirling, colorful patterns inspired by the psychedelic movement. | Perfect for T-shirts, dresses, or even accessories like scarves and socks. |
| Fringe and Suede | Textured materials often used for vests, jackets, and accessories. | Combine with bell-bottoms for a full 70s look, or add a fringe bag or boots to your current outfit. |
| Floral Prints | Bright, oversized floral patterns symbolizing a connection to nature. | Wear a floral maxi dress or pair a floral blouse with denim jeans for a casual yet stylish look. |
| Maxi Dresses | Long, flowing dresses, often with bohemian details like lace and ruffles. | Ideal for festivals, casual wear, or evening outings with accessories like a floppy hat and chunky jewelry. |
Conclusion
70s hippy fashion was all about expressing individuality, rejecting societal norms, and embracing freedom. Whether through the bold patterns of tie-dye, the laid-back vibe of bell-bottoms, or the earthy, natural materials, the style was as much about attitude as it was about clothing. Today, many elements of this iconic style are still relevant and can easily be incorporated into modern wardrobes, making it a timeless look that continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts around the world.