The 1970s were a decade for men’s fashion: free expression, colorful vibrant hues, and bold designs. This was unlike the tight, restricted styles of previous decades where men were not allowed to express themselves freely, but instead were encouraged to break out into bold silhouettes and unique combinations-merging the influence of disco fever, rock rebellion, and bohemian freedom.
From flare-leg pants to flowing peasant tops with broad collars, to more tailored combinations and a great amount of comfortable street clothes a time period full of shimmering glitters in form of glam, and hippie looks. The following 35 ideas evoke the flavor of this stylish decade by celebrating its vivid and diverse trends in fashion.
1. The Psychedelic Suit Revolution
Bold colors clashed freely in psychedelic suits. Men strutted in paisley patterns that swirled with trippy energy. These suits were tailored, yet had a fluidity, a looseness that matched the vibe. Collars were wide and lapels long with an almost exaggerated look.
Top: Bold, psychedelic patterned blazers or shirts with wide lapels.
Bottom: Flared trousers in matching or complementary psychedelic patterns.
2. Bohemian Explorer Look
Loose, flowing garments offered comfort and ease. Men wore wide-brimmed hats and leather vests with raw edges. Billowy shirts and tapered trousers fit the mood of the times. This style wasn’t restricted by rigid trends but focused on a relaxed, free-spirited vibe.
Top: Flowing shirts, vests, or tunics, often in earthy tones.
Bottom: Loose pants or corduroy trousers with a relaxed fit.
3. Double-Breasted Chic
This style wasn’t just about fashion; it was about status. Men rocked bold double-breasted blazers, with heavy wool fabrics. The cuts were sharp, clean, making anyone wearing them look dapper. Paired with wide trousers, the ensemble balanced power with sophistication.
Top: Tailored double-breasted blazer or suit jacket.
Bottom: Wide-legged trousers, often in matching fabric or pattern.
4. Denim Everywhere
Denim made a serious comeback, dominating wardrobes. Whether a jacket, shirt, or pants, men wore denim head to toe. Often worn in a lighter wash, the fabric became associated with a rugged, laid-back vibe. For those feeling adventurous, denim flared out at the ankles.
Top: Fitted or oversized denim jackets or shirts.
Bottom: Denim jeans or trousers, often in a light or medium wash.
5. Afro Pick and Flared Pants
Men’s hairstyles and pants were statements of individuality. Large, voluminous afros, often shaped with an afro pick, became iconic. Combined with wide-legged flared trousers, this look embodied freedom and the rejection of conformity. Patterns ran wild, from psychedelic swirls to bold stripes.
Top: Loose-fitting t-shirts or patterned shirts, often worn untucked.
Bottom: Wide-legged, flared trousers or jeans.
6. Retro Turtleneck Layers
The turtleneck made an unexpected return with a twist. Instead of being a high-neck, conservative item, it became more versatile. Worn under button-down shirts or sleek suits, it lent an effortlessly stylish vibe. In thick knit or fine wool, turtlenecks kept men warm while providing a touch of sophistication.
Top: Knit turtleneck shirts or sweaters, often in neutral or vibrant tones.
Bottom: Fitted pants, usually high-waisted or wide-legged.
7. The Disco Inferno Suit
When night hit, men suited up in glittering, daring ensembles. The disco suit was all about bold flair, often in metallic or brightly-colored fabrics. The jackets were tight, and trousers flared out to dramatic proportions. Velvet or satin were key fabrics that captured the light.
Top: Shiny, metallic blazers or jackets, often with wide lapels.
Bottom: Tight-fitting trousers with dramatic flares, often in metallic or bright colors.
8. Leisure Suit Dream
The leisure suit defined relaxed elegance. Made from polyester or a synthetic blend, it offered both comfort and style. Often paired with an open-collared shirt, these suits screamed of weekend fun. Bright tones and pastel hues became the go-to for those looking to stand out.
Top: Polyester or synthetic fabric blazer, often in pastel or bold colors.
Bottom: Matching polyester trousers with a wide fit.
9. Hippie Denim Shirt Combo
Denim shirts became a favorite of the counterculture movement. Men paired them with faded jeans for an all-denim look. Some shirts came with embroidery or patchwork to add flair. Often worn untucked, they flowed over bell-bottom jeans or cargo pants.
Top: Denim shirt, often with embroidery or patchwork.
Bottom: Faded denim jeans or bell-bottoms.
10. The Boho Blazer
For men who wanted to blend sophistication with carefree ease, the boho blazer was perfect. Tailored to perfection, these blazers often had unstructured fits. Bold patterns, patchwork, and embroidery added personality. Paired with corduroy pants or flared denim, it felt casual yet cultured.
Top: Unstructured, relaxed blazers with unique fabrics or patterns, often in earthy tones.
Bottom: Loose-fitting trousers or wide-legged pants, often in corduroy or linen.
11. The Velvet Touch
Velvet suits and jackets gave a soft yet luxurious appeal. In rich shades of purple, deep blue, or forest green, these fabrics stood out. The tactile sensation added another layer of richness to the 70s look. Men wore velvet jackets with flare-leg pants or paired them with tighter trousers.
Top: Soft velvet blazers or jackets in deep, rich colors.
Bottom: Tailored trousers, often in a matching velvet fabric.
12. High-Waisted Jeans Glory
High-waisted jeans were synonymous with both comfort and style. Men wore them in wide-leg cuts or skinny fits. These jeans had a certain air of classic masculinity and were often paired with tucked-in shirts. The waistline sat above the belly button, elongating the legs.
Top: T-shirt or button-down shirt, often tucked in.
Bottom: High-waisted, wide-legged jeans or trousers.
13. Safari Suit Saga
Inspired by adventure, the safari suit combined function with fashion. Typically made of cotton or linen, the suit included multiple pockets. Khaki, olive, and earthy tones dominated this practical yet stylish look. Men paired these with sturdy boots or loafers.
Top: Khaki or olive safari jackets with multiple pockets, often in lightweight fabrics.
Bottom: Matching khaki or olive trousers, usually with a relaxed fit.
14. Statement Leather Jackets
Leather jackets, often in dark hues, became a symbol of rebellion. These jackets were worn with everything from jeans to trousers, making them incredibly versatile. Men favored them with minimal embellishment, letting the leather speak for itself. Zippers and studs occasionally adorned them for a more punk edge.
Top: Leather jackets, often in black or dark brown, with minimal embellishment.
Bottom: Slim-fitting jeans or pants, often paired with boots.
15. Patchwork Perfection
Patchwork designs ruled the 70s, especially in denim and cotton. Men wore shirts and jackets with mismatched fabric swatches, making each piece unique. Denim often featured colorful patches or intricate stitching. The randomness of the patterns felt free-spirited and rebellious.
Top: Patchwork shirts or jackets, often in denim or cotton.
Bottom: Mismatched, patched jeans or trousers.
16. The Rocker Vibe
In the 70s, rock stars inspired everything from hairstyles to wardrobe choices. Tight leather pants, band tees, and high-heeled boots became part of a man’s essential wardrobe. These looks were often topped off with long, shaggy hair and dark sunglasses.
Top: Band tees, tight leather jackets, or patterned shirts.
Bottom: Slim or skinny jeans, often in black or dark denim.
17. Color Blocked Goodness
Color blocking became a dominant trend in 70s menswear. Men wore bold combinations of colors, often in geometric patterns or striking contrasts. A bright red shirt paired with yellow pants created an eye-catching silhouette. Jackets followed the same pattern, often combining three or four complementary colors.
Top: Color-blocked shirts or jackets, often in vibrant hues.
Bottom: Coordinating or contrasting colored pants or trousers.
18. The Flared Trousers Return
Flared trousers became the hallmark of 70s fashion. These pants flared out dramatically from the knee downward, creating a sweeping silhouette. Paired with tight-fitting shirts or loose tunics, they balanced out the outfit. Made of wool, cotton, or denim, these pants were often brightly colored or patterned.
Top: Tight-fitting shirts or turtlenecks, often in solid colors.
Bottom: Wide-flared trousers, sometimes in bright or patterned fabrics.
19. Platform Shoes Strut
Platform shoes made men stand taller, literally and figuratively. Whether paired with a suit or bell-bottom jeans, they added a striking silhouette. Leather or suede, these shoes came in a range of styles, from boots to slip-ons. Often adorned with metallic elements, they screamed extravagance.
Top: Varies, often paired with brightly-colored shirts or jackets.
Bottom: Platform shoes with wide or flared trousers.
20. Wide Lapels Classic
In the 70s, the wider the lapel, the better. Jackets and blazers boasted lapels that were several inches wide, creating a bold look. These wide lapels were often paired with v- neck shirts or turtlenecks for added contrast. Trousers also followed this dramatic trend, wide and flowing.
Top: Blazers with dramatically wide lapels and long sleeves.
Bottom: Matching or coordinating trousers with a flared or wide leg.
21. Bohemian Scarf Wrap
Scarves wrapped around the neck became a key accessory for the stylish man. Worn loosely or tied with a casual knot, scarves added flair. Often patterned or in earthy tones, they complemented the bohemian look. Men layered them over open-collared shirts or blazers.
Top: Flowing shirts or jackets paired with scarves.
Bottom: Casual pants or jeans, often in earthy or neutral tones.
22. The Disco King
The disco era brought with it a whole new level of glitzy glamour. Men wore shiny, metallic shirts with wide collars and tight trousers. Platform shoes raised them above the crowd, ready to dance. Jackets sparkled in golds or silvers, reflecting the neon lights of the disco ball.
Top: Shiny, often metallic shirts or vests with wide collars.
Bottom: Tight trousers, usually in metallic fabrics with dramatic flares.
23. Suede Jacket Swagger
Suede jackets exuded both sophistication and a rugged edge. Men favored them for their soft texture and subtle elegance. Often paired with turtlenecks or button-down shirts, these jackets elevated any look. Earthy tones like tan, brown, and camel were the go-to choices.
Top: Suede jackets, often in camel or tan.
Bottom: Slim or flared trousers, often in earth tones.
24. Cuffed Pants Pop
Cuffed pants made a subtle but significant statement. Men rolled the hems of their trousers, creating a neat finish. The cuffs could be subtle or exaggerated, depending on the trend. This look worked best with sharp dress shoes or loafers. Paired with a tucked-in shirt or blazer, it added a refined touch to casual wear.
Top: Casual button-down shirt or t-shirt, often tucked in.
Bottom: Trousers or jeans with rolled-up cuffs at the ankles.
25. Workwear Wonders
Workwear-inspired clothing became popular in the 70s, with men sporting durable fabrics like denim and canvas. Cargo pants with large pockets were paired with thick, sturdy boots. The look exuded functionality mixed with an air of rugged cool. Jackets, often in khaki or olive, featured numerous utility pockets.
Top: Denim jackets, utility shirts, or jackets with large pockets.
Bottom: Cargo pants or denim jeans, often in a relaxed fit.
26. Leather Vest Rocker
The leather vest became synonymous with rebellious rockers. Often worn over a simple t-shirt, it added an edge to any outfit. Paired with tight jeans or flared trousers, the leather vest was versatile. Some vests were adorned with metal studs, adding more character.
Top: Leather vests, often worn over t-shirts or shirts.
Bottom: Tight jeans, flared pants, or casual trousers.
27. Tinted Sunglasses Cool
Tinted sunglasses, particularly in bold colors, became a 70s must-have accessory. Worn both indoors and outdoors, they added an air of mystery. These glasses were not just for sun protection but to complete a look. Men embraced round, oversized frames or aviators.
Top: Any shirt, jacket, or suit, often worn with an open collar.
Bottom: Casual or dress pants, often with an eye-catching pair of sunglasses.
28. Striped Shirts Cool
Striped shirts were a staple of 70s menswear. Bold, horizontal stripes in bright colors made a vibrant statement. Whether worn with suits or denim, they added character. The fit was usually boxy, complementing the looser, more relaxed vibe of the era.
Top: Striped shirts, often horizontal and in bright colors.
Bottom: Fitted trousers or high-waisted pants, often in solid colors.
29. Patch Pocket Suits
Patch pocket suits were less formal than their traditional counterparts. These suits featured oversized pockets on the outside of the jacket. The loose, unstructured fit reflected the decade’s love for comfort. Made from lightweight wool or cotton, they allowed for easy movement.
Top: Suit jackets with large, practical patch pockets.
Bottom: Matching trousers, often with a relaxed fit.
30. The Western Cowboy Edge
Cowboy-inspired fashion made its mark on the 70s. Men wore western shirts with snaps, often in plaid or denim. These shirts were paired with high-waisted trousers and boots. Leather vests added an extra layer of ruggedness.
Top: Western shirts with snap buttons and embroidery.
Bottom: High-waisted denim jeans or trousers with boots.
31. Disco Jumpsuit Queen
Jumpsuits, often shiny and metallic, became a disco sensation. Men wore them with open collars, creating a bold silhouette. These suits were often form-fitting and featured flared legs for added drama. Paired with platform shoes, it was the ultimate statement of dancefloor domination.
Top: Shiny jumpsuits, often with open collars.
Bottom: The same jumpsuit, featuring wide, flared legs.
32. Corduroy Allure
Corduroy pants became a staple of 70s menswear. These trousers had a distinctive ribbed texture that offered both style and warmth. Often paired with turtlenecks or button-down shirts, they exuded a sense of retro chic. Colors ranged from earthy tones to bold hues, making them versatile. Corduroy jackets were also popular, adding another layer of comfort and charm.
Top: Corduroy shirts, jackets, or sweaters.
Bottom: Corduroy trousers or pants, often in earth tones.
33. The V-neck Revolution
V-neck shirts and sweaters made a big splash in 70s menswear. Worn casually or tucked into trousers, these shirts created a more relaxed, elongated look. They were often paired with button-down shirts underneath or worn on their own.
Top: V-neck t-shirts or sweaters, often with a loose fit.
Bottom: High-waisted trousers, jeans, or flared pants.
34. Tapered Pants Trend
Tapered pants offered a sharp contrast to the wide, flared leg trend. They fit snugly around the thighs, then narrowed down to the ankle. Paired with a tucked-in shirt or tight blazer, they created an athletic silhouette. Men favored these with loafers or sneakers.
Top: Fitted shirts, turtlenecks, or blazers.
Bottom: Tapered pants with a slim fit, ending at the ankle.
35. Collared Knitwear Finesse
Collared knit shirts became another hit of 70s fashion. Worn with trousers or tucked into shorts, they offered a clean yet comfortable look. The ribbed texture added an extra dimension to the outfit. These shirts were sometimes worn open with a hint of chest showing.
Top: Knit shirts with a collar, often ribbed or textured.
Bottom: Fitted trousers or chinos, often with loafers or sandals.