70s Costume Ideas

The 1970s were a decade of disco, designer drugs, and decadence. Coined the “Me” generation, the 70s were a time of unprecedented self-indulgence and fun that--wisely or not--has not been matched since.

Today, 70s fashion trends are instantly identifiable: bell-bottomed pants, Farrah Fawcett feathered hair, leisure suits, jersey wrap dresses, wide-brimmed sun hats, and platform shoes were all de rigueur. When planning a 70s costume, don’t be afraid to be outrageous! If you’re a man, fake sideburns, thick mustaches, and big Afro-style wigs are a must. If you’re a woman, in addition to the “Farrah” look, long straight hair parted in the middle, stretchy halter-tops, flared trousers, and mules are perfect for those boogie nights.

Here are ideas for the perfect 70s costume for Halloween, 70s theme parties, or any other dress-up occasion. They all range from a 3 ½ to 5-star rating (out of 5) and are available on Amazon.com.

Princess Leia was an interstellar babe from the original Star Wars movie, released in 1977. Played by actress Carrie Fisher, Leia’s dark hair buns and slinky costumes made her the dream girl of every 70’s adolescent boy. This 100% polyester costume is an officially licensed Star Wars product and rated 4 stars by Amazon buyers. It includes a dress, belt, and wig. Reviewers rave how the dress “clings to curves” and is “an excellent choice for the Star Wars nerd!”  Consider adding a pair of tall, white vinyl go-go boots to complete the sexy look.

Pimps wearing colorful suits and hats and standing on street corners may be a thing of the past, but this costume will command attention from both men and women at the next Halloween party! The 100% polyester costume includes a red jacket with a wide zebra-print collar and cuffs, matching wide-brimmed hat, and bell-bottom pants.  Amazon reviewers, who on average rated this costume 5 stars, called it “a great hit on campus." One reviewer claimed it “won first place for grooviest outfit!”  Add a pimp stick (sold separately) and you’ll be ready to party like it's 1979!

If you ever dreamed of being the dancing queen of the party look no further than this Disco Diva costume. It comes with a short, patterned polyester dress and a matching head tie.  Simple but definitely sexy, Amazon reviewers loved the style and how it looked in pictures.  Add a pair of black patent leather go-go boots and an Afro wig to complete the look. And make sure they play at least one Donna Summer tune at the party!

The excesses of the 1970’s had their downside—namely the early deaths of rock legends like Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and Jim Morrison. Arguably the most noteworthy passage was Elvis Presley, who died in 1977 at the age of 42. The 70’s-era Elvis will forever be associated with his live Aloha Hawaii concert.

Channel the King of Rock N’ Roll in this white polyester jumpsuit with decorated belt and red scarf. This costume is an officially licensed Elvis Presley replica of what he wore when he shook his hips in front of a billion TV viewers in 1973.

Similar to the Disco Diva get-up, this 70s costume offers a little more coverage with a bell sleeved top and pants with a split flare. Add big gold hoop earrings and people might mistake you for Pam Grier, aka “Foxy Brown” from the 1974 action film.

There is no more iconic image from the 70’s than that of Brooklyn bad boy Tony Manero from the 1977 film Saturday Night Fever. This satin costume includes a black and white jacket, pants, and vest with attached collar. Add a pair of black platform shoes and you’ll be fighting off potential dance partners all night long.

A 70s costume is perfect if you are looking to wear something that is both sexy and fun to your next Halloween bash. Have fun dressing up, and catch you on the flip side!