The 1970s was a time of bright and colorful fashion. It was also an era where women were finally allowed to think outside of the box, fashion-wise, and create images that would never been allowed just ten years prior to that decade. Dresses in the 1970s were just as diverse and colorful as the era that they resided in. Popstars from the United Kingdom to the United States, celebrities and even politicians wore the beautiful dresses of the 70s and created their own trends within each style.

The 1970s was begun with the introduction of mini-skirts, bell-bottom pants and high-waisted belts. Also introduced during this period were sweaters, feathered hairstyles and knee-grazing boots. It was the dresses of this period that people remember fawning over, however, whether it was the outlandish outfits of Cher or the day-to-day glamor of the average girl, they had a character all their own. The jersey wrap dress became famous during this time period. It was and still is a great style, perfect for a professional dinner but able to double for a night on the town or hitting a club. The other positive factor of this dress that made is extremely popular was that it flattered every woman’s body type. It made skinny women appear to have curves and curvy women appear slightly thinner.

Tube dresses were also immensely popular during the seventies, as were maxi-dresses. This is a trend that has made a comeback today. The long, flowing maxi dresses were a perfect match for the hippie-aura of the 70s, one that screamed ‘chill.’ Tube top dresses with fluttery sheer sleeves or tie-up blouses on top were all the rage, too. Form fitting dresses with short sleeves and button-up fronts were wildly popular. These had a long skirt, one that stretched down to the lady’s feet, and were often inlaid with a pattern of stripes, polka dots and so forth.

Celebrities were frequently seen wearing short dresses, preferably back, with long sleeved blouses underneath, the likes of which buttoned up but were left loose, as was the style. These were commonly worn with black or white nylons and platform pumps. Rayon wrap dresses were very popular as well, looking both fashionable at the time and relaxed. The styles of the 1970s were diverse. Today this is reflected in the range of 70s fancy dress abundantly seen online at costumes stores.