12 ’70s Fashion Rules That Wouldn’t Fly Today
The fashion world of the 1970s was bold, colorful, and full of strange rules people followed without question. What seemed stylish back then might raise eyebrows today or even spark some serious debate. These outdated fashion ideas show just how much style has changed over the decades.
- Tricia Quitales
- 3 min read
The 1970s brought a unique mix of disco glam, earthy bohemian, and loud patterns that defined the era’s look. Along with the wild clothes came certain “rules” that people followed, even if they didn’t always make sense. Today’s fashion is far more inclusive and expressive, breaking free from the limits of past decades. These 12 outdated fashion rules from the ’70s remind us how far style freedom has come.
1. Never Mix Prints
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In the ’70s, wearing more than one bold print was considered a fashion disaster. People were told to pick just one pattern and let it stand alone. Now, mixing florals with stripes or checks is a fashion-forward move.
2. Only Wear Bell-Bottoms with Platform Shoes
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It was almost a rule that bell-bottoms had to be paired with chunky platform shoes. The idea was to balance the wide pants with tall heels. Today, sneakers, sandals, or even bare feet work just fine.
3. No White After Labor Day
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Even in the groovy ’70s, this old-school rule stuck around. White was seen as a summer color, and wearing it in fall or winter was frowned upon. Now, white jeans or coats are welcome any season.
4. Matching Outfits for Couples Were Trendy
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Couples often wore matching prints or colors to show unity. While this may have looked cute then, it’s now seen as a bit over-the-top. Modern couples usually prefer to express their personal style.
5. Men Shouldn’t Wear Pink
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Pink was labeled a “feminine” color, and many men avoided it completely. That thinking was strong in the ’70s, even though the style was starting to loosen up. Today, pink is a powerful and popular color for all genders.
6. Your Purse Must Match Your Shoes
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Women were often told to keep their accessories in sync — brown shoes meant a brown purse. This made outfits look “put together” but left little room for creativity. Now, mixing colors is not just allowed; it’s encouraged.
7. Denim-on-Denim Was a Big No-No
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Wearing jeans with a jean jacket was once considered a fashion misstep. Too much denim was seen as lazy or unfashionable. Today, the “Canadian tuxedo” is a bold style statement when done right.
8. No Visible Bra Straps
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Showing even a peek of a bra strap was once seen as tacky or inappropriate. Fashion in the ’70s aimed to hide undergarments at all costs. Now, visible bras — especially lacy or colorful ones are part of the look.
9. Men Shouldn’t Wear Jewelry (Except a Watch)
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Aside from wedding rings and watches, men’s jewelry was seen as flashy or even strange. Bracelets, necklaces, and earrings were rare in the mainstream. Today, men’s accessories are stylish and widely accepted.
10. Mini Skirts Were for Young Women Only
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Short skirts were linked to youth and were thought to be off-limits for older women. Age was used as a strict style boundary in many circles. Now, mini skirts are about confidence, not age.
11. Always Tuck In Your Shirt
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Leaving your shirt untucked was considered sloppy or lazy, especially in public or at work. Tucked-in styles were the go-to for both casual and dressy looks. Today, untucked shirts are common and even stylish.
12. Socks and Sandals Were a Disaster
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The idea of wearing socks with sandals was the ultimate fashion don’t. It was mocked in magazines and avoided by trendsetters. Now, high-fashion brands have made this combo cool again.