Seventies fashion has become a bit of a punchline, and understandably so. Flares, ridiculous platforms and lots of lamé mean the decade is generally regarded as a style nadir.

And yet the ’70s had a seductive, carefree aura too; a breezy, undone but embellished glamour epitomised by its seductive suede, cool animal prints, slouchy furs and daring cuts. And thanks to the upcoming fi lm American Hustle starring Bradley Cooper, Christian Bale, Jennifer Lawrence and Amy Adams, the era’s swaggering sensuality is set to be rehabilitated. While the guys may not be enamoured with the permed hair and pointed collars popularised during the decade, for women there’s a myriad of great trends to draw from. Think dangerously unbuttoned shirts and blazers over wide-legged capris; long shearling coats over high-waisted, high-cut shorts; fur jackets teamed with lace playsuits.
Little wonder the ’70s were about defying convention, pushing boundaries and making bold and outrageous combinations. As America witnessed a decade of sweeping social, economic and political upheavals, the mood was changing. The idealistic hopefulness of the swinging ’60s had given way to the fresh anguish of the Vietnam war, the political disillusionment and mistrust of Watergate, and a deep recession. There was an emphasis on rebellion and cultural diversity; the key result of which was the popularity of disco, with its emphasis on funk, Latin and soul influences.
Disco fashion was extravagant; shiny jacquard prints, tiny silk dresses, tall boots and skintight snakeskin became the norm. But while these prints, textures and patterns can be overwhelming when worn together, a modern update is easily achievable by picking one or two key elements of ’70s style and incorporating them into your everyday wardrobe.
Fur always makes a return to the catwalks in autumn and winter months, so this year bring some retro glamour to your outerwear by layering them over silk kimonos, cami playsuits or a daringly low-cut shirt. The jacquard blazers and trousers that were a hit earlier in the year can also be updated for this season, simply by leaving them unbuttoned to the waist. Just don’t forget to tape yourself in first – no need for any obscene accidents! Leopard print shirts and jackets in slinky fabrics can also be updated if teamed with high-waisted jeans or even skinnies, and don’t forget boldly coloured accessories like bags in deep mauve or cobalt blue. Though full-on platforms can feel dated – and look orthopaedic – chunky high-heels with platforms and metallic or snakeskin highlights will embody the trend perfectly. High boots also look very ’70s teamed with over-the-knee skirts and dresses, while suede or lace-up thigh-highs are there for those ready to embody that serious ‘70s sexuality.
When it comes to accessories, think lots of bangles and medallions, and floppy, widebrimmed hats over artfully dishevelled hair. All you need now is to practice your disco dancing and you’re ready for a night with John Travolta.

Stocklist:
Boticca.com
Dune
Dundrum Town Centre, Dublin 16
Whitewater Shopping Centre, Newbridge
Marks and Spencers
15-20 Grafton Street, Dublin 2
24-29 Mary Street, Dublin 1
1 - 4 Eyre Street, Co. Galway
Merchants Quay S.C, Co.Cork
Missguided.co.uk
Pauls-Boutique.com
Penneys
35-39 Lower O’Connell Street, Dublin 1
47 Mary Street, Dublin 1
Unit 225 Eyre Square S.C, Co. Galway
O’Connell Street, Co. Limerick