African American Fashion Trends 70s
African American Fashion Trends of the 1970s
The 1970s were a remarkable decade for fashion, particularly for African American communities. This era saw a dramatic shift in style, influenced by cultural, social, and political movements. African American fashion of the 1970s was vibrant, bold, and a powerful expression of identity and pride. Let's dive into some of the key trends that defined this era.
The Influence of the Civil Rights Movement
The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s set the stage for the fashion trends of the 1970s. African Americans were fighting for equality and justice, and this struggle for civil rights carried over into fashion. Clothing became a way to express pride in African heritage and to assert individuality.
The Rise of Afros and Natural Hair
One of the most iconic fashion statements of the 1970s was the Afro. This hairstyle became a symbol of Black pride and beauty. Embracing natural hair was a rejection of the societal pressure to conform to European beauty standards. Men and women alike wore their hair in large, rounded Afros, celebrating the natural texture and volume of their hair.
Alongside the Afro, other natural hairstyles gained popularity, such as cornrows and dreadlocks. These styles were not only fashionable but also connected African Americans with their cultural roots.
Dashikis and African-Inspired Clothing
African-inspired clothing became very popular in the 1970s. Dashikis, with their loose fit and vibrant patterns, were worn by both men and women. The dashiki is a traditional West African garment that became a symbol of African heritage and pride. These colorful tunics often featured intricate embroidery and were made from kente cloth, a traditional African fabric.
Kaftans, another traditional African garment, also gained popularity. These long, flowing robes were worn for both casual and formal occasions. The use of African prints and fabrics in everyday clothing was a way for African Americans to connect with their ancestry and express their cultural identity.
Bell-Bottoms and Wide-Legged Pants
The 1970s saw the rise of bell-bottoms and wide-legged pants. These styles were a departure from the tight-fitting trousers of previous decades. Bell-bottoms flared out from the knee, creating a dramatic silhouette. They were often made from denim, but other fabrics like corduroy and polyester were also common.
Wide-legged pants were another popular style. These pants were comfortable and stylish, offering a relaxed fit that contrasted with the more structured styles of earlier years. Both bell-bottoms and wide-legged pants were often paired with platform shoes, adding height and a touch of flair.
Platform Shoes and Bold Footwear
Platform shoes were a staple of 1970s fashion. These shoes featured thick soles that added inches to the wearer's height. Platform shoes came in various styles, from sandals to boots, and were worn by both men and women. The bold, chunky design of platform shoes complemented the wide-legged pants and flared jeans that were in vogue.
In addition to platform shoes, African American fashion included other bold footwear choices. Brightly colored shoes, knee-high boots, and shoes with unique patterns were all part of the fashion landscape. Footwear was an essential element of an outfit, often designed to make a statement.
Funk and Soul Influence
Music had a significant impact on 1970s fashion. Funk and soul music, with its energetic and eclectic sound, influenced clothing styles. Musicians like James Brown, Sly and the Family Stone, and Parliament-Funkadelic not only set trends with their music but also with their fashion.
Funky fashion included vibrant colors, bold patterns, and an overall sense of extravagance. Men wore suits with wide lapels, colorful shirts, and flashy accessories. Women embraced glittering dresses, jumpsuits, and statement jewelry. The funk style was all about standing out and expressing individuality.
Disco music and culture also played a crucial role in 1970s fashion. The disco scene was all about glamour and glitz. African American fashion in the disco era featured sequined dresses, shiny fabrics, and bold colors. Jumpsuits became a disco staple, often adorned with sparkles and metallic accents.
Disco fashion was not limited to nightclubs. The influence of disco extended into everyday wear, with people adopting the flashy and flamboyant styles seen on the dance floors. The disco trend was characterized by its emphasis on shine and sparkle, making every outfit a statement.
Leisure suits became a popular trend in the 1970s. These suits were designed for comfort and style, made from polyester fabric that was easy to care for. Leisure suits typically featured a matching jacket and pants, often in bright colors or bold patterns.
Polyester was a favored material during this decade because of its durability and versatility. It was used in everything from suits to dresses to shirts. The synthetic fabric allowed for vibrant colors and unique textures, contributing to the distinctive look of 1970s fashion.
The Influence of Blaxploitation Films
Blaxploitation films, a genre of movies that emerged in the early 1970s, had a significant impact on fashion. These films, featuring predominantly Black casts, showcased stylish characters who became fashion icons. Characters like Shaft, Foxy Brown, and Cleopatra Jones influenced popular fashion trends with their distinctive looks.
Blaxploitation fashion included tailored suits, leather jackets, wide-brimmed hats, and oversized sunglasses. The characters in these films often wore outfits that were both stylish and functional, blending fashion with a sense of empowerment and confidence.
Accessories and Bold Statements
Accessories were an essential part of 1970s fashion. African American fashion embraced bold and unique accessories that completed an outfit. Oversized sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and chunky jewelry were popular choices.
Belts were often wide and adorned with large buckles, adding a dramatic touch to any ensemble. Scarves and headwraps, sometimes made from African fabrics, were used to accessorize and add color to outfits. Handbags and clutches came in bright colors and unique shapes, further enhancing the bold fashion statements of the decade.
Conclusion
The fashion trends of the 1970s were a vibrant mix of bold styles, cultural pride, and individual expression. African American fashion in this era was influenced by social movements, music, and cinema, resulting in a unique and unforgettable style. The 1970s were a time of experimentation and celebration, with fashion playing a crucial role in the expression of identity and heritage. From Afros to bell-bottoms, the trends of this decade continue to inspire and influence fashion today.
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