Fashion: That 70s feeling

By Michiko Hylands

Herald on Sunday·

9 Aug, 2015 02:30 AM4 mins to read

Dust off your maxis and revisit your inner bohemian.

I'm excited to bring you my first Sunday Dress column. This week, the focus is on one of the biggest trends of the new season: the 70s. As a child of that era, this fun, retro revival is something I hold close to my heart.

A definite, strong 70s influence is coming through in so many new collections right now. Yes, the 70s are back but only in a good way and this time, minus the fashion faux pas.

The 70s were such an outrageous and experimental era where nothing was considered "too much". Thankfully though, designers have taken only the best elements from this decade and completely re-worked them.

Karen Walker has hit the nail on the head, fully embracing the 70s mood of the moment. Her sleek Halifax Flyer Coat, made out of patent shearling, is a showstopper. I love the detailing: the over-sized Peter Pan collar, centre zip feature and giant patch pockets. This is a wonderfully modern interpretation of the 70s aesthetic.

When I think of the 70s, instantly a flared jumpsuit comes to mind. I'm mad for Coop's incredible Avenue Des Champs Elysees pantsuit. It incorporates everything fabulous and flamboyant from that time. The eye-catching, graphic print and flared pants create a strong statement, perfect for making a dramatic entrance.

What I like about the 70s is that designers weren't afraid of a making an impact, fearlessly mixing colour and bold prints with unbridled panache.

Andrea Moore's gorgeous orange floral Mysterious Hero maxi dress captures this perfectly, with its long, lean silhouette. It's a fresh, modern update of the classic 70s maxi dress.

Back in the 70s, they loved a good chevron stripe. World's Philately Gown channels this vibe brilliantly. The disco-inspired gold and black sequinned, chevron striped maxi dress screams glam.

Of course, it wasn't all about the shiny and glitzy. Another big 70s look was structured, clean design lines and minimalism favoured in an earthy toned palette.

An ensemble that epitomises modern 70s luxe is Country Road's tan leather sleeveless vest, worn with ribbed navy culottes. The tan colour mixed in with blue is this season's must-have hue.

Next, I have to mention denim, a huge part of the 70s. I adore Sylvester's denim Combat Pinafore worn with the Dotty Shirt. The utilitarian pockets and the A-line skirt evoke a strong 70s spirit.

And let's not forget the era was also famous for hippies. Liam's fringed Vaudeville cami top and fabulously wide-legged Bessie palazzo pants effortlessly channel that free-spirited, hippy deluxe feeling. So groovy, baby!

There are plenty of 70s offerings available and happily enough, there's something for all of us.

I'm a little obsessed with the amazing accessories coming through right now. Zoe and Morgan's gold Free Spirit necklace is gloriously bohemian.

Topshop's felt floppy hat is pure 70s chic. KG by Kurt Geiger's Hero sandal from Asos will unleash your inner disco diva and Witchery's Tatum Crossbody tan leather bag is a timeless classic.

Remember the adage "disco never dies and denim never fades", so give your wardrobe a revival. Can you dig it, man?