15 ’70s Fashion Trends That Looked Way Better on TV Than in Real Life

The 1970s was a vibrant decade known for its bold fashion statements. Television of that era showcased an array of styles that seemed glamorous on screen but often didn’t translate well to everyday life. From flared trousers to psychedelic prints, these trends made a lasting impact on fashion history. Here’s a look at 15 iconic ’70s fashion trends that, while captivating on TV, were challenging to pull off in reality.

1. Bell Bottoms

Bell bottoms were the epitome of ‘70s fashion flair, their exaggerated flares swinging with each step. On TV, stars like John Travolta made them look effortlessly cool, dancing through disco floors.

In real life, however, these trousers were less practical. Their wide legs could easily get caught or dirty, particularly in crowded spaces or during rainy weather.

Moreover, finding the right shoes to pair with them was often a challenge, as the hems almost demanded platform heels. Despite their iconic status, bell bottoms were better suited for the screen than everyday wear.

2. Tie-Dye Shirts

Tie-dye shirts burst onto the scene as symbols of peace and love, frequently donned by counterculture icons. On TV, they radiated a carefree, colorful vibe that was captivating.

Yet, off-screen, these shirts often clashed with other wardrobe pieces, making them a bold and tricky choice for daily outfits. The colors could fade quickly with washing, losing their psychedelic charm.

While tie-dye remains a nostalgic favorite, its chaotic palette made it a daring fashion statement better appreciated from afar.

3. Platform Shoes

Platform shoes towered into fashion with their sky-high soles and flashy designs. They were the go-to choice for TV characters strutting through dance scenes.

However, these shoes were infamous for comfort issues, causing blisters and awkward walking. Their height posed dangers, especially on uneven surfaces, leading to potential ankle twists.

Despite their stylish allure on screen, platforms were a precarious choice for anyone not accustomed to their height. On TV, they were glamorous; otherwise, not so user-friendly.

4. Polyester Suits

Polyester suits, with their shiny finishes and bold colors, were a staple in ’70s TV wardrobes. Characters were often seen navigating business deals and social scenes in these synthetic fibers.

While they looked sharp on screen, in reality, polyester was notorious for trapping heat, leading to discomfort. The material didn’t breathe well, making it a sweltering choice for warmer climates.

Additionally, polyester suits were prone to static, which could be embarrassing. Despite their crisp appearance on TV, they were less practical for everyday wear.

5. Leisure Suits

Leisure suits were the ultimate in relaxed ’70s fashion, with an aura of casual sophistication portrayed in TV shows. These suits were perfect for backyard parties or casual gatherings on screen.

However, in real life, the combination of polyester fabric and the suit’s design often resulted in a look that was more outdated than dashing.

The comfort promised was often undermined by the fabric’s lack of breathability, making them suitable for cooler temperatures only. On TV, they breezed through scenes, but in reality, they felt stifling.

6. Psychedelic Prints

Psychedelic prints were a visual feast, seen throughout ‘70s television in vibrant patterns that seemed to dance. They added a dynamic energy to any scene, capturing the essence of the era’s rebellious spirit.

In everyday fashion, these prints could be overwhelming, clashing with more subdued pieces. Their busy designs often drew more attention than desired, making them a bold yet risky choice.

While they spoke volumes on TV screens, in real life, they required a certain confidence to pull off without seeming too loud.

7. Wide Lapel Jackets

Wide lapel jackets dominated TV screens, lending characters an air of authority and style. These jackets were synonymous with the suave, debonair look of the era.

Off-screen, however, the oversized lapels could appear dated, as fashion trends shifted towards more streamlined silhouettes. The bulkiness was often impractical for layering or fitting into modern settings.

Despite their commanding presence on TV, wide lapel jackets found themselves out of favor in everyday wardrobes as fashion moved forward.

8. Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses floated across TV sets, embodying ethereal grace and femininity. Their flowing fabric and vibrant prints made them a staple for ’70s fashion icons.

In reality, however, the length of these dresses posed challenges, especially for shorter individuals or in crowded spaces where tripping was a concern. Their whimsical appeal required careful accessorizing to avoid looking dated.

While maxi dresses brought a touch of romance to the screen, in everyday life, their practicality and style needed careful balancing.

9. Peasant Blouses

Peasant blouses were the epitome of bohemian chic on TV, often paired with flowing skirts or jeans. Their relaxed fit and intricate embroidery exuded a carefree spirit.

Yet, in daily wear, the voluminous sleeves and loose fit could overwhelm the frame, requiring careful styling. The embroidery needed gentle handling to prevent wear and tear.

While they brought a touch of boho elegance to the screen, peasant blouses demanded a certain finesse to be flattering in real life settings.

10. Track Suits

Track suits sprinted into ’70s TV as symbols of fitness and leisure. Their bold stripes and matching pieces made characters look sporty and trend-savvy.

In practice, however, the thick polyester material often felt uncomfortable, trapping sweat during workouts. The fit, although stylish on screen, could be restrictive.

While track suits looked effortlessly cool on TV, their functionality as athletic wear was often compromised by the very trends that made them popular.

11. Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits soared into the ’70s fashion scene as dazzling one-piece wonders, often worn by daring TV characters. Their bold silhouettes captured the essence of ‘70s glamour.

In real life, however, jumpsuits posed logistical challenges, particularly with their design making bathroom trips cumbersome. The fit had to be just right to avoid looking awkward.

While they made a striking statement on screen, jumpsuits in everyday settings required confidence and careful styling to avoid pitfalls.

12. Fringe Jackets

Fringe jackets swung their way into ’70s TV as symbols of rock and boho style. Their movement added flair and drama to any character’s look.

Off-screen, however, the fringe could easily tangle or wear out, requiring maintenance to keep it looking fresh. The jackets were often heavy, making them impractical for prolonged wear.

Despite their dynamic appearance on TV, fringe jackets needed a touch of diligence to maintain their allure in everyday scenarios.

13. Corduroy Pants

Corduroy pants were a staple on ‘70s TV, worn by intellectuals and trendsetters alike. Their textured fabric and earthy tones provided a distinctive style.

In reality, corduroy could be stiff and prone to wrinkling, making comfort a concern. The fabric’s thickness also made it unsuitable for warmer climates.

While they added richness to TV wardrobes, corduroy pants required careful selection and care to maintain their vintage charm in real-life wear.

14. Ruffled Shirts

Ruffled shirts graced ‘70s TV with their romantic flair and elegance. These shirts added a touch of drama to formal or evening scenes.

In practice, however, the ruffles could be cumbersome, making them difficult to iron and maintain. They were prone to looking overly fussy or outdated without the right ensemble.

While they enchanted on screen with their ornate details, ruffled shirts required precision and context to avoid appearing over-the-top in day-to-day fashion.

15. Velvet Blazers

Velvet blazers added a touch of luxury and sophistication to ‘70s TV wardrobes. Characters donned them for formal events and upscale outings.

Off-screen, however, velvet was notoriously high-maintenance, attracting lint and losing its sheen if not cared for properly. The fabric’s thickness meant it was better suited to cooler climates.

While they glistened on TV, velvet blazers called for careful handling and the right occasions to truly shine in everyday fashion.