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1970s Women’s Shirts

The decade of the 1970s gave us major fashion trends and inspirations that people continue to follow to this day. Ranging from long maxi dresses to miniskirts, leather jackets to beautiful shirts, and bellbottoms to go-go boots, this era witnessed the best of the fashion industry.

The fashion of 70s style women’s shirts was incredible with all its designs, prints, and cultural significance. These shirts came in all colors and styles one could think of. These shirts were often ready-made, but you could also get customized shirts according to your taste and style. You could wear denim and leather jackets over these shirts as well and you could also pair these shirts with trousers, pants, and skirts and with a number of accessories ranging from headbands, bandanas, sunglasses, bracelets, and big chunky jewelry.

If you also want to get some ideas as to how you can wear 70s style shirts to stand out of the crowd, scroll down to find a list we have created just for you:

#1: Ribbed Polo Shirt

Ribbed polo shirts were a popular clothing item during the 1970s. You could wear these shirts with trousers, pants, and even skirts and still look super cool and stylish. These ribbed polo shirts came in various designs and prints. You could get them in monochrome style, floral patterns, geometric shapes, and classic striped style as well. These shirts came in various color combinations as well. Some had lines of different colors, others had a different colored collar and the rest of the shirt would be of a different color. You could pair these shirts with your favorite trousers and sandals and go out with style.

#2: Graphic T-shirt

Graphic t-shirts were a trendy piece of clothing that people of all ages would wear without hesitation. These shirts not only made you look cool but also gave you an exotic style that was envied by everyone who wasn’t sporting this style. The graphic designs on these shirts included plants, animals, sun and stars, lips with word art on them, and a lot more. The color combination of the shirt and graphic design was also nicely created. These shirts were often paired with denim pants and beret of your favorite color. Wearing tinted sunglasses with this outfit was also in fashion.

#3: Striped Shirt

Stripes have always been a trendy style to follow and we don’t see them going anywhere anytime soon. In the 1970s, you could see stripes everywhere, ranging from stripped bags and boots to striped shirts and sweaters. You could get shirts with stripes of different shades of a color or you could get a multi-colored striped shirt that gave you a cool look. Striped shirts were usually paired with pants, but you could also pair them with skirts and shorts.

#4: Zig-zag Pattern

The zig-zag pattern on shirts became popular with the hippie movement that brought in a major shift in the fashion trends of the 1970s era. You could wear these zig-zag pattern shirts of different colors and styles with bellbottoms and leather jackets. Combining this outfit with peace pendants, peace badges, hats, and bracelets was also very common. The flare of the bellbottoms sometimes also matched the print of the shirt and this showed the free spirits of the people living during that magnificent decade.

#5: Flower Power

Floral patterns on tunic shirts were a common but stylish fashion followed by the women of the 1970s. Tunic shirts filled with floral patterns showed the importance of flower power slogan that was used between the late 1960s and early 1970s as a symbol of non-violence ideology and passive resistance. These shirts not only looked super cute but were quite trendy as well. You could pair these shirts with sheer tights or leggings and pointed heels. Wearing cat-eye sunglasses with these outfits was also considered extremely stylish.

#6: Button-Down Shirt

In the 1970s, button-down shirts were not only sported by men, but women wore them with the same trendy and modish look as well. These button-down shirts often had pleats detailing for added style and shiny buttons for extra sparkle. When wearing a monochrome button-down shirt, women often paired it with plaid miniskirts and matching socks. Common footwear that was paired with this outfit included closed-toe pumps and block heels.

#7: Psychedelic Prints

Psychedelic prints came from psychedelia or psychedelic movement that included colorful art of contrasting and vivid colors. These prints usually included geometric shapes, spirals, and concentric circles. Psychedelic prints were often found on boho tunic shirts. These shirts had bell sleeves and were paired with go-go boots that were also a trendy fashion item. Women wore headbands that matched the prints of their tunic shirt to add to their already fabulous looks.

#8: Peasant Shirt

Peasant shirts with crochet trim were a cute 70s shirt trend that was followed by women of all ages. These shirts came in various prints, designs, and colors and were often paired with boot cut pants. Belts of different designs and contrasting colors were worn at the waist for more style. These shirts also had crochet lace adorning the hemline and ribbons intertwining the center partition.

#9: Embroidered Shirt

Embroidered shirts of the 1970s looked extremely graceful and stylish at the same time. These shirts usually had strings of embroidery adorning the neckline and the sleeves. The color combination of the shirt and the embroidery were usually in contrast in a beautiful way. You could pair these shirts with denim skirts that had buttons and pocket detailing or with casual trousers or pants.

#10: Polka Dots

There is no doubt about the fact that polka dots are everyone’s favorite trend. In the 1970s, polka dots women’s shirts were also another popular trend in fashion. These shirts came in a number of different styles and colors. The base color of the shirts often contrasted well with the color of the polka dots. Some of the shirts would have ruffles going around the neckline for added perfection. These shirts were usually worn with matching trousers or pants.

1920s Women’s Hats

Hats were extremely popular during the 1920s. The 1920s style was not just limited to dresses for women.Some of the 1920s dresses, including white dresses, black dresses, and formal dresses were incomplete without matching hats.

The Significance Of Headwear In The 1920s

The 1920s were revolutionary in terms of female fashion choices. Women went above and beyond in trying to choose the most audacious clothing, shoes, and accessories for themselves.

Also known as the Jazz Age the 1920s were full of music, art, and bold fashion choices. Women would not go outside during the day without covering their heads. Most women preferred hats instead of headbands or other accessories to cover their head whilst they were outside.

The many different types and styles of hats allowed women to be bold and feel fabulous. Nothing seemed outrageous anymore and women would be seen on the streets with large sunhats that had lace trimmings.

This was extremely empowering for women and could also be seen as an expression of self-confidence and their sexuality.

Different Characteristics Of Women’s Hats In The 1920s

There were many different types of women’s hats designed in the 1920s. However, some of the more consistent characteristics include the size of the hats.

Larger hats were preferred in the era before the 1920s. Not only were they more modest, but they also provided great coverage from the sun and prevented possible sunburns.

Even during the 1920s, women would wear large hats. Especially for outdoor events like outdoor tea parties and other semi-formal gatherings.

But instead of plain and drab hat designs, women got very creative with their hats during the 1920s. They would often add feathers to the hats to make them look prettier and more feminine. Colored feathers were very popular amongst women.

Other distinctive features include delicate lace trimmings or ribbons on hats. This would make a huge difference in the appearance of the hat. These features were not consistent in all types of hats and some hats were very different from others.

Different Types Of Hats In The 1920s

These are some of the different kinds of hats that were popular in the 1920s

Summer Straw Hats

Summer straw hats were perhaps the most basic, and domestic, types of hats. They were not very decorated and were usually made of simple straw material.Women would usually wear these hats whilst doing house chores outdoors. This included working in the gardens, etc.

Also, women would never wear these hats to any formal gatherings or events. This is because they were not very good-looking and were not meant to be flaunted around at parties, etc.

The Musketeer Hat

Also known as the Cavalier hat, the Musketeer hat gained immense popularity in around 1921. This is also the time that “The Three Musketeers” was released to the public.

The Musketeer hats shot to fame very quickly and soon women were seen wearing a pretty hat with 3 distinct edges or points.

These edges would appear when the hat was folded upwards. This hat was made from straw which made it extremely durable and flexible. Also, it was usually decorated with ribbons and sequins to make it look prettier and more appealing.

Tam O’shanter Hat

The Tam O’Shanter Hat was also very popular amongst women in the 1920s. Especially young, college students. This was due to several reasons.

Firstly, this hat was extremely comfortable and floppy. This was mainly because it was not made with straw.

Another reason why this particular hat was so popular among young women is that it was extremely easy and cheap to buy. Not only was it available in all markets, but it could also be knitted at home.

The fabrics used for this hat included wool, felt, or velvet which were all relatively cheaper so broke college students could afford this hat.

The Sport Beret

This hat was perfect for sporty girls. It was made with light felt fabric and had a leather band around it. This leather band was sometimes replaced by a wide knitted band.

The beret was not only cheap but also looked great with a variety of outfits. This included skirts, large sweaters, and even sailor suits. It looked particularly great on sailor’s tops for women because it was a sporty-looking sailor’s hat.

The beret was usually made with furry materials like the chenille and animal fur. This helped it stay warm and soft to the touch.

Hats In Today’s Time

If you’re someone who loves wearing hats, you can still fulfill your hat dreams by going online and shopping for hats inspired by styles in the 1920s.

Even though hat fashion has evolved, you can always go back to the beginning and try something new!

1920s Skirts And Tops – What To Wear With A Skirt

Here is your guide to the different styles of blouses and tops that were tailored made and paired with the popular trend of wearing a skirt in the 1920s. Such styles were seen as casual wear on women of all ages.

The Era Of Skirts!

The 1920s was definitely an era when skirts became very popular. There were different flowy materials like chiffon, silk and satin that were used to make different styles of skirts that changes the way women dressed in the 1920s.

Women could get tailor-made woolen skirts, longer winter skirts and flowy chiffon summer skirts. They came in all kinds of colors, styles, cuts, and were a gorgeous fashion piece from the era.

However, what goes more interesting was how women paired different styles of blouses with these skirts. Let us just say they did get creative!

Different Types Of Blouses To Pair With A 1920s Skirt

Here are some of the more popular blouses that women paired with different styles of skirts.

1. Basic Chiffon Blouse With A Waist

Pullovers were really a fashion necessity during that era. Women also chose to wear a waist on chiffon blouses to show off their waists. However, the 1920s waists had a unique touch to them. While they were made up of a stiffer material, they only had buttons on the back of the neck.

This gave a very mock neck look, and what added to the grandeur was the side bow or flower. The neckline always had an intricate puffy piece of embroidery on the side, which added the perfect feminine touch.

Moreover, the waist usually tied and the lower bottom, which gave that sinched up shape some people liked on more flowy summer skirts.

The waist was usually paired with long sleeves that were puffed up, with cuffs at the ends. This is also a time when bell-shaped sleeves came in style. People loved a class chiffon top with light summer sleeves.

These basic blouses would look good with many different skirts and pants, which made them a staple in every women’s closet.

2. Decorative Blouses

While basic blouses had their own charm, another popular style was a slightly more decorative blouse. They were made in a crisp white or perhaps the tan color that could be paired with many different colors.

These blouses usually had a peter pan oversized collar, which gave it the perfect 1920’s touch. The collars had a pointed finish which gave it that sharpened finish. This style really suited the lower necklines that were seen on torsos at the time.

At first, such blouses only came in plain basic colors, however, that started to change as more and more patterns started to appear on these decorative blouses

Patterns like geometric shapes, embroidery, Asian patterns, and color explosions started to introduce some zest in daily and casual wear as well.

This also the reason why these are referred to as decorative blouses. During the art deco era, all kinds of art were experiencing more color- which didn’t take to long to travel to the fashion world.

3. Peasant Blouse

Peasant blouses are not at all what the name sounds like. These tops were much more popular during the summers as they took after a very famous Puerto Rican sundress.

These tops were simple yet chic. It fashioned colorful embroidery on its sleeves, with the light cotton fabric making it light to wear, especially in hotter regions.

In addition, the gorgeous touch to blouse was how it had a lace-up tie mechanism at the back. This accentuated curves as well as gave that polished look.

Women made such blouses with both shorter and longer sleeves. This design also came back during the 70’s boho trend! So now, you know where it originated from.

4. Sheer Crepe Blouses

Sheer crepe blouses were also a classic item to pair with different styles of skirts. This kind of style hit the markets even more after vogue featured it on it’s the front page.

Sheer blouses obviously required sheer materials. They weren’t as bright and colorful but had a fairly nice color range with pale greens and pastel blues.

Most of these blouses had thread embroidery, beads, lace, and different trimmings on its borders to add elegance as well as femininity.

Sheer crepe blouses had both longer and shorter sleeves. The blouses with the shorter sleeves were known as the pixie blouse. The had a scooped neckline and a larger opening at the back. This boat neckline design paired very well with skirts.

5. Button-Up Blouses

Button-up blouses on skirts were worn by many women who went out and wanted that professional touch. These basic blouses usually had a fringe, ruffles, or pin tucks.

They fashioner much softer collars with a v neck design leading up to the buttons. They had a little more baggy silhouette, which is why it was considered to be much more modest as compared to other fashion items.

Much lighter colors like pastel peach, pink, apricot, blue, green and black were statement colors for button-up blouses, so they can be paired with all kinds of skirts.

1920s Nightwear

Nightwear has been a strong part of female fashion for decades. Its connection to personal comfort and the expression of sexuality has made it popular among women over the years.

Women enjoy wearing all kinds of nightwear, ranging from lingerie to fancy Bralettes. The concept of a certain kind of fancy nightwear for women became popular first during the 1920s.

Women had very different and modest ideas about expressing their sexuality. This is why nightwear before the 1920s was almost always limited to full-bodied chemises with long sleeves.

Short, thin nightwear was not common, and the only shapewear that was available was uncomfortably tight corsets.

The Evolution Of Nightwear During The 1920s

Despite the more modest nightwear choices before the 1920s, women made some bold nightwear choices during the decade.

Nightwear went from drab, white, and modest to bold, colorful, and somewhat revealing. This was largely due to various women’s empowerment movements and the evolution of female fashion.

This evolution allowed female fashion to be more revealing and bold. Due to this, women started making amends in their personal lives as well. They started choosing different kinds of nightwear.

Popular fabrics used for women’s nightwear during the 1920s.

Some popular fabrics used for women’s nightwear during the 1920s include cotton, silk, satin, and shantung.

These fabrics are the epitome of luxury and comfort, which is why it was a great idea to make women’s nightwear out of them.

Also, nightwear made from these fabrics, especially satin and silk, were not only comfortable but also looked very smooth and shiny.

Women who liked to stay in style during the 1920s would buy this nightwear to look gorgeous even in the comfort of their own homes.

Popular nightwear colors during the 1920s

Since nightwear was supposed to be worn in the comfort and privacy of your own home, women did not choose bright, eye-catching colors for it.

Popular nightwear colors during the 1920s included pastel colors like lights pinks and blues. White was also a very popular color.

Creamy colors like beige, flesh, and pastel green were also very popular. Some women still choose softer, creamier colors for their nightwear. However, nightwear colors have evolved since the 1920s, and women wear all kinds of bright and bold colors at bedtime.

Different kinds of nightwear in the 1920s

These are some different kinds of popular nightwear options from the 1920s

1. Corsets

Despite their restrictive properties, corsets were very popular as a nightwear option for women in the 1920s.

Their popularity was carried down from the Victorian Era, and women liked wearing corsets that defined their shape, even to bed. Some women even believed that tight corsets would accentuate their curves.

Even though corsets became less popular as the decade progressed, some popular types of corsets were the boned corset, corselettes, and underbust corsets.

2. Chemises

Chemises were one of the most popular types of nightwear options. They were usually made up of satin, cotton, or silk.

Chemises were worn above the corsets. However, some women would forego the corset altogether and just wear the chemise to bed.

Chemises were popular because they were soft, airy, and comfortable. And since women in the 1920s were all about personal comfort, they loved chemises.

3. Brasseries

Bras or Brasseries were popular amongst women who did not like wearing restrictive corsets. They were shorter than corsets and were not very tight either.

Bras were popular in light, pastel colors, and had edges that were often trimmed with lace or some kind of embroidery. Unlike corsets, Bras were supposed to flatten the breasts and make them feel comfortable and manageable.

However, for heavier breasts, brasseries often had extra strong straps for support. The straps were usually made from cloth and elastic.

4. Knickers

Knickers were larger panties in the 1920s. They were usually made of cotton and silk and were extremely airy and comfortable.

Also known as a bloomer, knickers were made from light material and came in all kinds of colors. From pastels to dark oranges and even blacks. A specific color of knickers was not particularly popular.

Knickers for women were usually sold separately. Also, for people who liked a two-in-one, cami-bloomers combined the knickers and chemise to make a single undergarment.

Nightwear today

Nightwear today has taken inspiration from the nightwear of the 1920s. Bras, Bloomers, and Chemises have evolved into a very different kind of lingerie for women today.

Despite the change, some things are constant. For example, the need for comfortable nightclothes is still present. Women like attractive clothing that is also very comfortable so that they can easily sleep in it.

If you love buying night clothes for yourself, take some inspiration from the ladies of the 1920s and go buy some amazing lingerie right now!

Get the vintage style with Zkaka 1950s dresses

With jeans and t-shirts a staple addition of our wardrobe, dressing to impress seems like a thing of the past. However, special occasions call for a dressier outfit and if you are also on the lookout for a dress inspiration – turning to our line of Zkaka 1950s dresses is the best way to add a retro twist to your modern look.

The 1950s fashion

The women of 1950s embraced femininity to the fullest and always took pride in their appearance. They maintained a polished look from head to toe – regardless of the occasion and were willing to adapt every new fashion trend with enthusiasm.

In fact, the Zkaka 1950s dresses are perhaps the most feminine and sophisticated attire for any modern vintage lover to adorn in today’s times. The colorful prints and colors can depict any mood and there is a ‘look’ that suits any body shape and personality.

The silhouettes

When it came to party wear, the women had two styles to choose from: A full circle dress with a pinched waist or a form-fitting sheath dress. Both were appropriate for any formal occasion and gave the women a variety of colors and patterns to play around with.

Full-circle dress

A full circle-dress, also known as the hourglass shape was a staple wear of most women of the 1950s. The dresses were fitted tightly at the waist while the skirt bellowed out in full flare. In fact, many women added layers of starched petticoats underneath to give the skirt a lift.

The length was generally knee-length and sometimes longer for eveningwear – but never shorter. The trending neckline of that time was usually square or halter neck while the material varied from chiffon and silk to blended cotton and spandex.

Sheath dresses

As the name implies, a sheath or a pencil skirt style dress is a body-hugging style of dress that restricted the women’s walk – thus creating a wiggly look. They did have a split or kick pleat to make movement easy but were stitched with little or no extra fabric to stretch.

The style was popular with all age groups. However, the mature women preferred the look immensely and carried it in a sophisticated manner with high heels. A matching suit jacket or cardigan was often paired with the skirt for a complete look.

Similar to the full circle dress, the length was again around calf length and never shirt. Usually, women preferred to wear sheath dresses in solid colors. However, you can also find Zkaka 1950s dresses in plaid prints with various embellishments.

Prints and colors

1950s fashion was all about playing with color and the women was bold enough to sample every color combination imaginable. However, women did give more preference to shades of pink, blue, cream, light yellow, lilac, and aqua in the spring/summer months. The hue shifted to deeper shades of brown, blue, green, navy, charcoal grey, black, purple, gold and wine colors in the winter months.

Polka dots were predominant in prints. Ranging in sizes from small to large, polka dots were a favorite in dresses, skirts, blouses, and even pants. The polka dots style is still in vogue today, with many of us guilty of owning at least one garment of the print.

Plaid pattern was also popular, in both – men and womenswear. They were contrasted with any color imaginable and remained trendy in every season.

Floral prints and abstracts also made it to the fashion designer’s table in the 50s. The flowers were mostly enlarged and gave a hand printed feel to the complete dress while abstracts varied from lines and stripes to paisley prints.

Material for dresses

Textile options in the 50s were unlimited. Both natural and synthetic material was used and there was no limitation to the type of fabric used for certain type of clothing.

Some of the most common fabric used in party dresses of the 1950s included:

Cotton
Wool
Denim
Corduroy
Silk
Net
laces
Organdy
Rayon
Linen

Accessories

Pairing the party dress with compatible accessories was a must for women in the 50s. This not included jewelry, shoes, and handbag but also gloves, hat, and preferably a chiffon scarf – wrapped around the neck or ponytail.

Wide belts also complimented most looks, especially with skirts – either full or pencil. Most party attire was completed with bold red lipstick.

Shop the look

As you can see, there is an array of choices when mimicking a party dress of the 1950s in today’s era. If you are also looking for party wear that gives reference to the vintage era, check out the line of Zkaka 1950s dresses. Here, you will not only find the best styles and quality but competitive pricing as well. Check it out and enjoy the dress up in your next event.