When forecasting the 70s era Vogue
announced, 'There are no rules in the fashion game now. You're playing it and
you make up the game as you go, [...] you write your own etiquette. Express
yourself.' Women were dressing for themselves. Styles had no limitations and
women were ready to express this freedom. The emergence of prêt-a-porter meant
catwalks were no longer the only source for fashion trends. While synthetic fabrics
were growing in popularity so were organic silks and cottons creating a plethora
of iconic and contrasting 70s looks. Most significant characters were the
Hippie, the Punk and the Disco Queen. Women were taking fashion in all directions
and finding new ways to embrace their femininity.
Boho enthusiasts of the 1970s
sported long lean silhouettes guided by the ethnic fashion movement. To achieve
the gypsy look floor length chiffon dresses were worn off the shoulder with
clog style shoes adapted from the Scandinavian folkloric romanticism which the
movement longed for. Crochet ponchos and dresses displayed the appreciation of
traditional craft and the boho dream of 'Back to Nature' fashion supported by
designers like Bill Gibb. Hand dyed fabrics from India and embellished fabrics
from Greece filled the 70s era with exotic colours and intricate craftsmanship.
Afghan Coats made from sheep or goatskin became key pieces in any hippies'
wardrobe. They became a uniform for the campaigning, peace-loving and protesting
individuals that fought for change during the 70s. 
