PATTERNED KNITWEAR
In what must surely be this year’s most unexpected turn of events (at least in menswear, the world is still pretty batshit) the patterned jumpers you begged your mum not to make you wear on school picture day have become hot property. It’s all about taking that nostalgic feeling of classic knitwear and giving it a modern reworking and much better fit.If you want to commit to the 1970s vibe, Keep the palette coordinated.
WIDE LEG TROUSERS
Add some individuality to your winter wardrobe with the new trouser on the block: The 1970s wide leg,
Whether your preference is the ultra-wide leg, pleated or peg-leg turn-up variety, this style has cast some serious shade on the once favourable skinny-legged look, as fashion does a complete 180.”
Wide-leg trousers may initially seem like a bold move, but they’re actually a walk in the park to style. A simple crew-neck sweater and trainers are a safe shout, and if you want it give them some turbocharged 1970s appeal stick on a roll neck jumper, a sherpa-lined denim jacket and some low-top, lace-up sneakers.
Word of warning: short jackets work better to balance the proportion of wide-leg trousers and minimise chances of hearing that terminally unfunny quip – “Did you borrow your dad’s clothes?”
ROLL NECK
This one’s not brand new. The roll neck has been edging back into the mainstream in recent seasons and now that we’ve all had enough time to get to grips with the basic premise – they’re a more refined way to keep warm than slinging a scarf on – it’s the ideal time to up the ante with 1970s styling.
Chunky roll necks are as seventies as they come, and again they work best when layered. A cream chunky cable knit roll neck worn beneath a shaggy tan shearling coat is perhaps the finest example of winter layering you’re likely to come across. Get in there quick before everyone else does.
CORDUROY
If there’s a fabric more inherently seventies than corduroy, we’re yet to hear of it. So, not only is this season’s corduroy as bold or discreet as you like, it’ll make you want to touch yourself too. Corduroy trousers in darker shades are a solid starting point for those who are feeling 1970s shy. Narrow wales (the proper name for those vertical cords) will always be more subtle than thicker styles, too. Add your usual sweatshirt, shirt or T-shirt and you’re good to go. A Tailoring crafted from corduroy, however, needs a bit more attention to stop your inner Austin Powers making a break for it.
SILK SHIRTS
In their heyday 1970s-style silk shirts may have sent unwanted sightings of torso shag piles skyrocketing, but the modern man is critically lighter on the ol’ chest pubes. Now, without getting too Boogie Nights about it, the menswear world’s having another crack at this clavicle flashing style.It should go without saying: if you’re wearing bold prints, let them speak for themselves. That means black trousers are you best friend, along with dark coats and jackets. You can afford to go a bit Harry Styles with your footwear though – think brown, tan or sand suede Chelsea boots.
VELVET
Strictly speaking velvet didn’t just enjoy a good run in the 1970s, it managed to muscle its way well into the 1980s, too. Since then though, most men would draw the line at a black velvet blazer, worn only when a work party absolutely called for it. If you can’t be tempted into unfamiliar velvet territory (it’s not for everyone) a formal velvet blazer is still a good way to stand out at party season. More adventurous guys should still wear their velvet up top, but branch out from the blazer. Velvet T-shirts and bombers are the safest options as they won’t cause trouble when paired with your usual off-duty staples.
