Fashion is cyclical, and the latest trend sweeping through men’s wear proves just how much history influences contemporary style. After decades of sleek, form-fitting cuts that defined much of the 2000s and early 2010s, the 1970s are making a grand return. The current season’s collections are bursting with wide-shouldered jackets, loose trousers, and a warm, earthy color palette that channels the free-spirited, carefree vibe of the disco era.
For anyone watching the fashion scene, it’s clear: the ’70s are back, and they’re here to stay — at least for this season. It’s not a full-blown revival, but rather a selective reimagining, as designers pluck the best elements of this stylish era and modernize them for today’s wardrobes.
The Return of the Wide Shoulders
If there’s one element that immediately screams “’70s,” it’s the broad shoulder. The wide-shouldered look is a key feature of this season’s jackets, blazers, and outerwear. Think of the sharp lines and statement shoulders of Yves Saint Laurent’s iconic safari jackets or the more relaxed, oversized cuts that were typical of the era. These pieces offered a distinctive silhouette that was at once commanding and graceful, and now they’re back, bigger (literally) than ever.
Modern interpretations of the wide-shouldered jacket often feature a slightly exaggerated cut, evoking images of disco-era stars like John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever or the sharp, tailored suits worn by characters in The Godfather. But today’s take is not as rigid as the past. Rather than the heavy padding of the ’70s power suit, the new wide-shouldered jacket is often made from lighter fabrics that maintain their structure but add a touch of ease to the wearer’s look.
Designers are opting for soft wool blends, cottons, and even linen, which allow for the jacket to drape gently on the body. It’s a more relaxed, lived-in look, but one that still retains a sense of confidence and power. The oversized fit is not just about the shoulders either—many jackets have been extended in length as well, creating a sleek, elongating effect.
This look works particularly well for layering, pairing beautifully with turtlenecks or even chunky knits, making it a versatile choice for both day and night. For those looking to keep things fresh while embracing the wide-shouldered aesthetic, opting for single-breasted designs can keep the look from feeling too much like a costume and instead lean into contemporary cool.
Loose Trousers and Flares
If there’s one thing we associate with ’70s fashion, it’s the flare. Whether it was bell-bottoms or wide-leg trousers, the ’70s were a time for experimenting with form, and trousers became a central piece of that revolution. The flare was all about freedom — freedom of movement, freedom of expression, and even freedom from the tight, constricting cuts of the previous decades.
For 2025, these classic ’70s pants are making a massive comeback. This season, trousers are wide, loose, and occasionally dramatic, with hems that kick out in a statement-making flare. Paired with a jacket featuring broad shoulders, this gives off a confident yet laid-back energy that screams comfort and self-assurance.
But the modern twist on flares and wide-leg trousers is all about balance. While the pants are looser, they don’t swamp the figure. Instead, they flow gently, creating a relaxed, almost bohemian look. They often come in soft, neutral tones like beige, brown, or olive green, which ground the bold silhouette in practicality, making it perfect for day-to-day wear. However, brighter colors like mustard yellow and burnt orange — reminiscent of a groovy, sun-drenched 1970s afternoon — are also making an appearance, especially for those who want to stand out.
The key to styling this look is proportion. A high-waisted trouser, paired with a tucked-in shirt or slim knit, elongates the legs and adds structure. Those looking to embrace the look without going overboard should look for designs that offer a subtle flare, like those that gently widen from the knee down, giving just enough of a nod to the ’70s without fully committing to the full bell-bottom effect.
The Earthy Palette
A standout feature of the ’70s aesthetic that is making waves in today’s fashion world is the earthy color palette. The pastels of the 1960s have been replaced with richer, more saturated hues that evoke the warmth and vibrancy of nature. Shades like mustard yellow, rust, burnt orange, olive green, and rich browns dominate the runways this season, creating an earthy vibe that feels comforting and grounded.
This warm palette mirrors the ’70s love for nature, as the decade was not only a time of social revolution but also a time of environmental awareness. As such, the color scheme often evokes memories of autumnal tones and outdoor adventures, but without the rustic, rugged feel that typically comes with them. Instead, the colors are clean and refined, making them easy to incorporate into contemporary wardrobes.
For those wanting to incorporate this ’70s-inspired palette, it’s simple. Start with a statement jacket in mustard yellow or a deep rust color, and pair it with more neutral pieces like beige or olive trousers. Accessories like scarves or shoes in shades of brown, tan, or even suede can elevate the look further. It’s about finding harmony between the boldness of these colors and the relaxed, sophisticated cuts of the garments.
The Casual, Laid-Back Vibe
What sets the ’70s apart from other eras is its inherent casualness. This wasn’t a time when clothes were stiff or overly polished. Instead, it was an era where personal style took precedence, and garments were meant to be worn comfortably and with ease. This season’s take on the ’70s reflects that laid-back, almost effortless quality. The pieces are more about lifestyle than dressing up — they’re about comfort, wearability, and embracing a personal sense of style.
Designers have reimagined the traditional formal wear pieces of the ’70s, softening them and creating looks that feel more spontaneous. Loose, unstructured blazers, easy-wearing trousers, and casual knits are often paired together in a way that says, “I didn’t try too hard, but I still look amazing.”
This ethos is captured perfectly in the ongoing resurgence of leisurewear, particularly in athleisure-inspired jackets and velour fabrics. Retro jogging suits and quilted jackets, often in bold colors or with vintage logos, reflect a throwback to the informal vibe of the ’70s, when track suits and sneakers were an integral part of casual street style.
Embracing the ’70s Vibe: A Guide for Modern Men
The revival of the ’70s in men’s wear offers a wide variety of possibilities for those looking to refresh their wardrobes this season. To fully embrace this trend, start by focusing on silhouette and proportion. Invest in jackets with broad shoulders and loose trousers with a slight flare. Pair them with turtlenecks or long-sleeve shirts, and finish off the look with accessories like chunky glasses, scarves, or even a wide-brimmed hat.
For those who prefer a more subtle approach, it’s all about color. Incorporating earthy tones into your wardrobe — whether through accessories, outerwear, or even footwear — will instantly give your outfits a nostalgic touch.
Ultimately, this season’s take on the ’70s isn’t about recreating the decade’s fashion exactly as it was but rather about reimagining it for a modern audience. The spirit of the ’70s is one of freedom, confidence, and self-expression. And now, as we move into 2025, these values are more important than ever.
