1. The Afros of the ’70s Were a Statement of Power
In the ’70s, the Afro became more than a hairstyle—it was a bold statement of identity and pride. Black women across America embraced their natural hair, rejecting the societal pressure to straighten it. It was a visual and cultural declaration that natural beauty was not only valid but also worthy of celebration. This movement was fueled by the Black Power movement, which emphasized pride in Blackness and the rejection of Eurocentric beauty standards. Icons like Angela Davis and Pam Grier made the Afro synonymous with strength, style, and defiance. For many, wearing an Afro was an act of rebellion against a society that had long dismissed Black beauty. This unapologetic embrace of natural hair paved the way for more dramatic and diverse hairstyles in later decades says Real Simple. The Afro’s popularity also spawned a cultural shift in how hair was cared for and styled, with natural hair salons and products flourishing. It was a time when Black women reclaimed their right to wear their hair as they pleased, setting a precedent for self-expression. By the ’80s, this foundation would evolve into bigger and bolder styles, amplifying the statement that hair could be political, personal, and powerful.
As the ’70s ended, the Afro transitioned into other forms, but its impact lingered. The voluminous hairstyles of the ’80s and ’90s often drew inspiration from the Afro’s unapologetic boldness. Black women experimented with texture, volume, and structure, leading to iconic styles like the Jheri curl and high-top fades. The Afro had already shown that Black hair could command attention and tell a story. In the ’90s, braids, twists, and locs expanded this narrative, offering even more ways to celebrate natural hair. These trends weren’t just about aesthetics—they were about continuing the conversation the Afro had started. The Afro taught a generation of women that their hair was more than just hair; it was a medium for storytelling, self-love, and resistance explains Harper’s Bazaar.
2. Funky Prints and Patterns Sparked Creativity
The ’70s were all about bold, eye-catching patterns, and Black women were at the forefront of this fashion revolution. From geometric prints to psychedelic swirls, their clothing reflected the energy and vibrancy of the era. These patterns were often inspired by African textiles, connecting Black Americans to their ancestral roots. Dashikis and other traditional garments made their way into mainstream fashion, blending heritage with modern style. Black women paired these prints with statement jewelry and accessories, showcasing their flair for mixing bold elements. This fearless approach to fashion encouraged self-expression and individuality, rejecting conformity adds Vogue.
By the time the ’80s and ’90s rolled around, this foundation of daring patterns had transformed into even bolder fashion choices. Neon colors, sequins, and exaggerated silhouettes built on the adventurous spirit of the ’70s. Designers like Dapper Dan drew from this legacy, creating custom pieces that celebrated Black culture in fresh, innovative ways. Meanwhile, Black women continued to redefine what it meant to be stylish, drawing from their past while forging new paths. The courage to embrace the wild prints of the ’70s laid the groundwork for the eclectic, trend-setting styles that would dominate future decades.
3. The Rise of Soul Train Inspired Dance Floor Glam
Soul Train wasn’t just a TV show—it was a cultural phenomenon that shaped how Black women expressed themselves through fashion and beauty. On the Soul Train line, women flaunted their creativity with bold outfits, shimmering makeup, and eye-catching hairstyles says WTTW. It became a platform for showcasing individuality and confidence. Sequins, bell-bottoms, and platform shoes became iconic looks, inspiring trends that would carry into the ’80s and ’90s. These outfits weren’t just stylish—they were fun, freeing, and perfectly suited for the disco lights.
Soul Train also introduced the world to the power of synchronized, stylish group dance, further cementing its cultural influence. By the ’80s, its legacy could be seen in music videos, where fashion and choreography worked together to tell a story. Black women, inspired by the freedom of the Soul Train era, continued to push boundaries in their wardrobe choices. Metallics, sparkles, and flowing fabrics all had their roots in this stylish show, proving that the ’70s were a training ground for the bold aesthetics of later decades according to NPR.
4. Disco Fashion Sparked an Era of Glamorous Confidence
The disco era of the late ’70s saw Black women embracing luxurious, glamorous styles that celebrated their bodies and individuality. Shimmering dresses, plunging necklines, and metallic fabrics became synonymous with nightlife. Diana Ross, Donna Summer, and others epitomized this high-glamour aesthetic, blending elegance with a touch of edginess. These looks made a statement that fashion was meant to be fun and fearless. Disco was not just about the music; it was about creating an entire experience, and Black women were central to that movement.
When the ’80s arrived, the glitz and glam of disco evolved into a more structured, power-dressing approach, but the confidence remained. Sequins and gold accents from the disco era carried into the bold looks of performers like Janet Jackson and Whitney Houston. Disco had taught women how to shine—literally and figuratively—so the transition into more exaggerated styles of the ’90s felt natural. From red carpets to music videos, disco’s legacy of fearless fashion was evident, solidifying its influence on decades of Black women’s style.
5. Natural Makeup of the ’70s Highlighted Inner Beauty
The ’70s saw a shift toward natural makeup that celebrated the unique features of Black women. Instead of covering up, makeup trends emphasized glowing skin, bold brows, and soft, earthy tones. This approach to beauty reflected a broader movement toward embracing natural aesthetics and rejecting Eurocentric standards. Brands like Fashion Fair emerged during this time, specifically catering to the needs of Black women. With shades that matched their skin tones, these products empowered women to enhance their natural beauty rather than mask it. This subtle approach to makeup offered a refreshing alternative to the heavily stylized trends of previous decades.
By the ’80s and ’90s, the groundwork laid by natural makeup trends morphed into more dramatic and experimental looks. The glowing skin and bold brows of the ’70s evolved into vibrant eye shadows and statement lips. Yet, the idea that makeup could celebrate rather than hide one’s features remained at the core. The ’70s focus on skincare also carried forward, with Black women continuing to prioritize healthy, radiant skin. This era had shown them that beauty products could be tools of empowerment, paving the way for even more diverse and creative expressions of beauty in the decades to come.
6. Black-Owned Fashion Brands Took Center Stage
The ’70s were a time of entrepreneurial spirit, with Black-owned fashion brands rising to prominence. Designers like Willi Smith and Stephen Burrows gained acclaim for their innovative styles that blended modern trends with cultural heritage. Their designs often featured vibrant colors, flowing fabrics, and daring cuts that celebrated the beauty of Black women. These brands weren’t just about clothes; they were about representation and breaking barriers in a predominantly white industry. For Black women, wearing these designs was an act of pride and solidarity.
The success of these brands in the ’70s created a foundation for the fashion powerhouses of the ’80s and ’90s. By then, brands like Cross Colours and Karl Kani brought streetwear into the mainstream, blending high fashion with everyday wear. The groundwork laid by earlier designers ensured that Black women could see themselves reflected in fashion at every level. These brands not only influenced style but also fostered a sense of community and cultural pride, making fashion a medium for storytelling and empowerment.
7. Statement Jewelry Amplified Personal Style
In the ’70s, Black women used jewelry as a way to make bold statements. Oversized earrings, chunky necklaces, and bangles became staples of personal style. These accessories were often inspired by African motifs, celebrating heritage while adding a touch of glamour to everyday looks. Jewelry wasn’t just an afterthought; it was a central part of how women expressed themselves. Paired with colorful prints and natural hairstyles, statement pieces completed the fearless looks of the decade.
As the ’80s and ’90s arrived, statement jewelry grew even more extravagant. Gold chains, door-knocker earrings, and layered necklaces became symbols of confidence and success. Hip-hop culture in particular embraced these accessories, with women like Salt-N-Pepa and Queen Latifah incorporating them into their iconic looks. The ’70s had shown that jewelry could be both meaningful and fashionable, and this legacy of bold accessorizing only grew stronger in the following decades.
8. Black Women Owned the Bell-Bottom Trend
Bell-bottoms were one of the defining trends of the ’70s, and Black women elevated them to new heights. Paired with crop tops, fitted blouses, or flowing tunics, these wide-legged pants became a staple of both casual and dressy looks. The silhouette accentuated curves while providing a sense of freedom and movement, perfectly reflecting the era’s vibe. Icons like Chaka Khan and Pam Grier embraced bell-bottoms, turning them into a symbol of effortless cool.
By the ’80s, bell-bottoms evolved into high-waisted, wide-legged trousers, maintaining their connection to bold self-expression. The confidence Black women exuded while rocking this style in the ’70s laid the groundwork for experimenting with new pant styles in later decades. Whether flared jeans in the ’90s or wide-leg pants in contemporary fashion, the bell-bottom’s legacy is undeniable. Black women’s fearless adoption of this trend in the ’70s proved that they were always ahead of the curve when it came to defining style.
9. Platform Shoes Made Every Look Pop
Platform shoes were a staple of ’70s fashion, and Black women embraced them as a way to add height, drama, and flair to their outfits. From colorful suede boots to sky-high sandals, these shoes were as bold as the outfits they complemented. Platforms symbolized confidence, allowing women to literally and figuratively stand tall. They became a must-have accessory for nights out, especially at discos, where their chunky designs added to the fun of the dance floor.
The dramatic flair of platform shoes carried over into the ’80s and ’90s, influencing everything from sneakers to stilettos. Black women continued to embrace footwear that made a statement, whether it was the sleek pumps of the ’80s power suits or the bold sneakers of ’90s streetwear. The ’70s had set the stage for viewing shoes as more than just functional; they were an extension of personal style. Platform shoes, with their unapologetic boldness, ensured that every step was taken with confidence and flair.
10. Maxi Dresses Combined Comfort and Style
Maxi dresses were a quintessential ’70s fashion choice, offering a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Black women embraced these floor-length dresses for their versatility, wearing them to everything from casual outings to formal events. Often adorned with bold prints or vibrant colors, maxi dresses celebrated the decade’s love for drama and self-expression. The flowing silhouette allowed for movement and ease, making them a favorite for dancing or just enjoying the era’s laid-back vibe.
By the ’80s, the influence of maxi dresses could be seen in evening gowns and daywear alike. Designers began incorporating elements of the ’70s boho chic into their creations, keeping the spirit of the maxi dress alive. In the ’90s, maxi-length skirts became popular, offering a fresh take on the classic style. Black women’s ability to make this trend uniquely their own ensured its enduring appeal. The maxi dress’s legacy is a testament to the power of combining practicality with bold, eye-catching style.
11. Headwraps Honored Heritage and Style
Headwraps became a popular accessory in the ’70s, combining practicality with cultural significance. Black women used headwraps to protect their hair while also making a bold fashion statement. Often made from vibrant fabrics, these wraps drew inspiration from African traditions, creating a direct connection to heritage. Headwraps allowed women to experiment with different ways of tying and styling, adding a unique touch to every outfit. They were as much about expressing individuality as they were about celebrating community.
The popularity of headwraps continued into the ’80s and ’90s, evolving into more stylized versions that incorporated contemporary fashion trends. Turbans, scarves, and other headpieces became staples of red carpet looks and everyday wear. The ’70s had shown that headwear could be both functional and deeply personal, inspiring countless iterations in later decades. Black women’s mastery of the headwrap in the ’70s ensured its lasting relevance as a symbol of beauty, culture, and self-expression.
12. The Jumpsuit Redefined One-Piece Chic
Jumpsuits emerged as a major trend in the ’70s, offering Black women a stylish and practical option for both day and night. With their sleek silhouettes and bold patterns, jumpsuits became a favorite for everything from disco dancing to casual outings. The versatility of this one-piece wonder made it an instant hit, allowing women to dress it up with heels or keep it relaxed with flats. Icons like Diana Ross showcased how glamorous jumpsuits could be, making them a staple of ’70s fashion.
As the ’80s and ’90s approached, the jumpsuit’s influence remained strong. Power suits of the ’80s often borrowed elements from the ’70s jumpsuit, with cinched waists and dramatic shoulders. In the ’90s, jumpsuits took on a more casual vibe, blending seamlessly with the era’s love for laid-back, sporty styles. The ’70s had shown that a single piece of clothing could be transformative, and Black women’s fearless embrace of the jumpsuit ensured its place as a timeless fashion statement.