10 Best And 10 Worst Trends From The ’70s
The 1970s was a bold, colorful decade filled with unforgettable trends that shaped an entire generation. From the glitz of disco and bell-bottoms to the rise of fast food and fad diets, the era was defined by experimentation, self-expression, and cultural shifts.
While some trends, like classic rock and vintage fashion, still influence us today, others—think shag carpeting and polyester everything—are best left in the past. Whether groundbreaking or cringe-worthy, the ‘70s had a unique charm that continues to captivate.
Let’s take a nostalgic journey through 20 of the best and worst trends from this unforgettable decade.
1. Classic Rock Dominance
This was the golden era of Led Zeppelin, Queen, Pink Floyd, Fleetwood Mac, and The Rolling Stones. The concerts were epic, the guitar solos were long, and rock stars were actual gods.
Classic rock defined the decade with its powerful performances and memorable tunes. Fans flocked to stadiums to witness their idols in action.
The legacy of 70s rock is undeniable, influencing countless musicians and shaping the sound of future generations. It remains a staple in playlists around the world.
2. Bell-Bottom Pants
Bell-bottoms were the statement piece of the decade. They flared, they flowed, and they made everyone look effortlessly cool (or like they were smuggling tiny parachutes on their legs).
These pants became synonymous with 70s fashion, embraced by both men and women. Their unique silhouette was both stylish and controversial.
While bell-bottoms have made occasional comebacks, their association with the 70s is strong. They represent a time when fashion was bold and unapologetically expressive.
3. Funk & Soul Revolution
James Brown, Parliament-Funkadelic, and Earth, Wind & Fire made sure that every dance floor was packed with the funkiest basslines and best moves. If you didn’t have afros, platform shoes, and an unstoppable groove, were you even in the 70s?
Funk and soul brought communities together, offering a vibrant soundtrack to the times. These genres emphasized rhythm and had infectious energy.
The influence of funk and soul endures, with many modern artists drawing inspiration from this revolutionary period in music history.
4. Disco Fever
Nothing screams 70s like Saturday Night Fever, mirror balls, and John Travolta strutting like he owns the world. The music? Absolute bangers. The fashion? Pure glittery excess.
Disco became a cultural phenomenon, with its pulsing beats and flashy fashion. Everyone wanted to dance, and dance they did, under countless spinning mirror balls.
The era of disco is fondly remembered for its energy and style. It left an indelible mark on music and fashion, creating trends that have seen revivals in modern times.
5. Star Wars Mania
A galaxy far, far away landed in 1977, and the world has never been the same since. This was the birth of one of the most legendary franchises ever. Lightsabers, Darth Vader, and The Force—what’s not to love?
Star Wars captured the imagination of audiences, creating fans that spanned generations. It became a cultural juggernaut with an expansive universe.
The mania surrounding Star Wars continues to this day, proving its lasting impact. It revolutionized the film industry and inspired legions of devoted followers.
6. Roller Disco Craze
Why just dance when you can dance on wheels? Roller discos were the place to be, and the best way to show off your moves without falling on your face (hopefully).
The roller disco craze combined the thrill of skating with the infectious beats of disco music. Skaters glided gracefully or awkwardly, depending on skill.
This trend was not only about fun but also a social scene where people connected over shared interests. Roller discos have seen a revival, reminding us of their joyful roots.
7. Vinyl Record Culture
Before streaming, music lovers had real collections—vinyl records. There’s just something magical about putting a record on a turntable, hearing the slight crackle, and feeling like a music connoisseur.
The 70s were a golden age for vinyl, with music enthusiasts cherishing their collections. Album covers became art pieces, adding to the experience.
Today, vinyl has made a comeback, appreciated for its warm sound and tactile nature. It represents a nostalgic connection to an era where music was a tangible treasure.
8. The Rise of Punk Rock
The anti-disco revolution was led by The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, and The Clash. Punk was loud, fast, and did not care what you thought. Mohawks, leather jackets, and rebellion were the vibe.
Punk rock was a raw, energetic movement that challenged societal norms. It was a voice for those disillusioned by mainstream culture.
Its impact is still felt today, influencing music, fashion, and attitudes. Punk embodies the spirit of nonconformity, and its legacy continues to inspire.
9. Iconic TV Shows
The 70s gave us classics like MASH, Charlie’s Angels, The Brady Bunch, Happy Days, and Wonder Woman. TV was cheesy, fun, and totally binge-worthy.
These shows captured the imagination and hearts of viewers, providing entertainment and escapism. Characters became beloved icons.
The influence of these programs is still evident, with reruns and reboots keeping their spirit alive. They represent a simpler time in television history.
10. Women’s Fashion Evolution
The 70s saw women breaking out of the restrictive past with bold looks—hot pants, jumpsuits, wrap dresses, and even suits. It was all about freedom, power, and looking effortlessly cool.
Fashion reflected the evolving role of women in society, embracing individuality and empowerment. Women expressed themselves through daring styles.
This period marked a significant shift in fashion history, paving the way for future trends. Today, the courage and creativity of 70s women’s fashion continue to inspire designers.
11. Polyester Everything 😬🚫
Polyester ruled the 70s—and it was hot, itchy, and looked like plastic. If you’ve ever been trapped in a polyester suit on a summer day, you know the true meaning of suffering.
Despite its practicality, polyester was notoriously uncomfortable, leading to many regrettable fashion moments. Its shiny appearance was a love-it-or-hate-it trend.
Thankfully, fashion has moved beyond this synthetic obsession. While it offered easy maintenance, the discomfort overshadowed its convenience, leaving polyester as a cautionary tale.
12. Shag Carpeting
Shag carpet looked like a wet dog exploded all over the floor. It trapped dirt, was impossible to clean, and came in the most hideous colors (think avocado green and mustard yellow).
Despite its popularity, shag carpeting was a nightmare for cleanliness and aesthetics. Its cumbersome texture made it unpractical for any household.
Interior design has since evolved, leaving shag carpets behind. Their brief existence serves as a reminder of how not all trends are worth keeping around.
13. Bad Makeup Days
Women’s makeup in the 70s was…a lot. Sky-blue eyeshadow, super thin eyebrows, and bright orange blush made people look more like a circus performer than a disco queen.
The bold beauty trends of the time were experimental, pushing the boundaries of conventional makeup. However, many styles were more theatrical than wearable.
Modern makeup has learned from past excesses, focusing on enhancing natural beauty. The clownish looks remind us that sometimes, less truly is more.
14. Cigarette Addiction Everywhere
Smoking was in literally every movie, office, airplane, and restaurant. If you didn’t smoke, you still ended up inhaling secondhand smoke for free.
The 70s were a time when smoking was ingrained in everyday life, despite its health risks. Cigarettes were marketed as glamorous and sophisticated.
Public awareness and health campaigns have since diminished smoking’s prevalence, highlighting the dangers. The era’s pervasive cigarette culture is now seen as a cautionary tale.
15. The Pet Rock Scam 🪨😑
Yes, people actually bought rocks and treated them as pets. A literal rock was marketed as a companion, and millions of people fell for it. The 70s were wild.
The pet rock phenomenon was a testament to clever marketing, turning ordinary stones into a fad. It captured the whimsical side of consumer culture.
Though short-lived, the pet rock craze serves as an amusing chapter in retail history. It reminds us of the power of novelty and humor in marketing.
16. Ford Pinto’s Exploding Problem
The Ford Pinto was a cute little car with one tiny issue… it had a tendency to explode when rear-ended. Not exactly a great selling point.
This design flaw became infamous, raising serious safety concerns and leading to numerous lawsuits. The Pinto’s reputation was tarnished irreparably.
Car manufacturers have since prioritized safety, learning from past mistakes. The Pinto remains a key example of how design oversights can have dire consequences.
17. Brown, Orange, and Avocado Green Everything
The 70s color palette looked like autumn threw up on your entire house. Every home had brown kitchens, mustard appliances, and orange walls—why did people think this was a good idea?
Despite its popularity, this color scheme is often remembered as garish and overwhelming. It dominated interior design choices.
Today’s design trends favor more subdued and harmonious palettes. The 70s’ bold colors serve as a cautionary tale in balance and aesthetics.
18. Weird Diet Fads
The 70s had some truly disturbing diet trends. The worst? The cigarette diet (yes, people smoked to lose weight), the grapefruit diet, and the horrendous “cabbage soup diet.” Someone call a nutritionist!
These fads promised quick results but lacked nutritional balance. They often led to unhealthy habits rather than sustainable wellness.
Modern nutrition emphasizes balanced diets and healthy lifestyles. The bizarre trends of the 70s remind us to approach diets with caution and informed choices.
19. Extremely Dangerous Playgrounds
Playgrounds in the 70s were basically lawsuits waiting to happen. Everything was made of scorching hot metal, slides were 10 feet tall, and the ground was concrete—good luck, kids!
Safety was not a prime concern, resulting in risky play environments. These playgrounds were challenging but often hazardous.
Today’s playgrounds prioritize safety and creativity, reflecting lessons learned from the past. The treacherous 70s playgrounds remind us of the importance of children’s safety.
20. The CB Radio Obsession
Before cell phones, truckers and regular people alike were obsessed with CB radios. Everyone had a weird “handle” (nickname) and spoke in cryptic trucker talk. It was basically 70s Twitter, but worse.
CB radio culture created a unique community, allowing communication over short distances. It was a practical tool with a quirky side.
With the advent of modern technology, CB radios have mostly faded. However, they remain a nostalgic reminder of a different era in communication.