Get the look: The knit, crochet and patchwork fashion of the 1970s
12 retro picks that are perfect for today, too
Eclectic, bohemian fashion continued to be prevalent during the 1970s — just as string art and candle making were popular teen crafts during this era, hints of the same DIY aesthetic and enthusiasm for handicrafts could be found in the Carlson family wardrobe in the form of patchwork jeans, novelty knits and crochet vests.
The good news: because the decade's fashion trends continue to go in and out of style even today, it's relatively easy to find both new, '70s-inspired styles at the mall, and actual vintage clothes in second-hand stores and online (a cheap and eco-friendly option!).
Here are the must-have 1970s trends to look for:
Colourful crochet
On this week's episode of Back In Time For Winter, Melanie's vest features a multi-coloured square crochet pattern. Because of the extensive handiwork involved, some designer crochet pieces can be quite pricey; luckily, it's possible to find machine-knit styles and garments from smaller, indie labels for less than $100.
STORY mfg. Teapot Crocheted Cardigan, $440 (on sale for $352), Garmentory
ASOS DESIGN Stripe Crochet Knitted Cami With Button Detail, $46.29 (on sale for $24.20), ASOS
Flook Grandpa Crochet Flare Pants, $300.96, Free People
Bohemian Scrapcity Granny Square Crochet Vest, $65.83, Etsy
Patchwork everything
Patchwork textiles are often made from a number of small, geometric fabric scraps stitched together, and are a great way to use up leftover fabrics and reduce textile waste. The collage-like effect continues to be popular today, especially in denim. At home this week, Alex is wearing a pair of wide-leg patchwork jeans featuring a variety of denim washes.
LECAVALIER Cow-Boy Jean, $700, Simons
Textured Knit Patchwork Sweater, $69.90, Zara
Denim Patchwork Skirt, $440 (on sale for $132), Coach
Kids Patchwork Super Skinny Jeans With Stretch, $49.95, Gap
The knit vest
A knit vest is another style must-have that can help you channel the episode's '70s-inspired winter look. Besides Melanie's crochet number, two of the sisters also rocked sweater vests over knit turtlenecks during the dance party segment. Look for interesting textures, open cuts and looser fits, and bolder colour combinations.
Andersson Bell Multicolour Knit Monaco Vest, $165, Ssense
Floral Knit Vest, $49.90, Zara
Baby Textured-Knit Vest, $17.99, H&M
Gucci Girls GG Logo Knitted Wool Dress, $510, Selfridges & Co.
Truc Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer, editor and stylist. Follow her at @trucnguyen.