Back in Time Today
The 1970s was a decade brimming with colorful fashion, groundbreaking gadgets, and cultural phenomena that defined a generation.
From bell bottoms to disco balls, many of these items have since faded into memory but remain iconic symbols of a unique era.
Here’s a look back at 27 fascinating trends from the 1970s that have since disappeared, each holding its own special place in history.
1. Bell Bottom Jeans
Bell bottom jeans became a fashion staple in the 1970s, characterized by their distinctive flared legs. These jeans often symbolized rebellion and individuality, a nod to the counterculture movement of the time.
Paired with platform shoes or boots, they were favored by both men and women, and were often seen in vibrant colors or with embroidered designs.
Though they disappeared from mainstream fashion, bell bottoms occasionally resurface in retro fashion trends, reminding us of a time when clothing was as bold as the era itself.
2. Lava Lamps
Lava lamps, with their mesmerizing blobs of wax floating up and down, became an iconic 1970s home decoration. These lamps added a psychedelic touch to any room, perfectly fitting the era’s vibrant and experimental spirit.
They were often found in bedrooms and living rooms, casting a soft, colorful glow that set a relaxed mood.
Though not as popular today, lava lamps are still cherished by collectors and those nostalgic for the free-spirited ambiance of the seventies.
3. Pet Rocks
Pet rocks were a quirky fad in the mid-1970s, turning ordinary stones into novelty items. Marketed as low-maintenance pets, these rocks came in little boxes with breathing holes and care instructions, adding to their charm.
They quickly became a humorous gift idea, embodying the playful and eccentric side of the decade.
While the trend was short-lived, pet rocks remain a memorable example of the era’s quirky consumerism and continue to amuse those who remember the fad.
4. Mood Rings
Mood rings captured the fascination of the 1970s with their thermochromic elements that changed color based on body temperature. These rings were thought to reflect the wearer’s emotions, becoming a personal and mystical accessory.
Many were intrigued by the supposed insight they provided into one’s mood, adding a touch of intrigue to daily fashion.
Though their popularity has waned, mood rings still enchant those curious about their color-shifting properties, a nostalgic nod to a time of self-discovery and expression.
5. Disco Balls
Disco balls illuminated dance floors across the world in the 1970s, becoming synonymous with the disco craze. Reflecting lights in all directions, they created a dazzling atmosphere, enhancing the energy of the dance scene.
These mirrored spheres were essential fixtures in nightclubs and parties, contributing to unforgettable nights of music and dance.
While not as prevalent today, disco balls still capture the essence of a lively era, occasionally making appearances in modern dance venues or themed events.
6. Waterbeds
Waterbeds were the epitome of luxury sleeping in the 1970s, offering a unique experience with their fluid support system. They promised comfort and coolness, making them a popular choice for those seeking innovation in bedroom furniture.
Often featured in movies and TV shows, waterbeds symbolized a lifestyle of relaxation and indulgence.
Though rare today due to practicality issues, they remain a fond memory of a time when unconventional ideas were embraced in pursuit of comfort and style.
7. Platform Shoes
Platform shoes rose to prominence in the 1970s, adding inches to the wearer’s height with their thick soles. These shoes were a fashion statement, often embellished with glitter, bold colors, and unique designs.
Worn by men and women alike, they were a staple of the disco era, complementing the groovy attire of the time.
Though their everyday presence has dwindled, platform shoes occasionally make a comeback, reminding us of the daring fashion choices that defined the seventies.
8. Pong Video Game
Pong, one of the first video games, revolutionized entertainment in the 1970s with its simple two-dimensional graphics and addictive gameplay. This arcade game brought the concept of interactive electronic entertainment to the masses, sparking the rise of the gaming industry.
With its iconic paddles and bouncing ball, Pong was a staple in arcades and homes, captivating players of all ages.
Although gaming has evolved, Pong’s legacy lives on, a testament to the humble beginnings of a now-massive industry.
9. Bean Bag Chairs
Bean bag chairs became a symbol of casual comfort in the 1970s, offering a relaxed seating alternative to traditional furniture. Filled with soft beads, these chairs conformed to the sitter’s shape, providing a cozy spot to lounge or socialize.
They were a hit in dorm rooms and living spaces, embodying the laid-back attitude of the decade.
While less common now, bean bag chairs are still appreciated for their comfort and versatility, a reminder of a time when relaxation was key.
10. Tang Drink
Tang, the powdered drink mix, soared to fame in the 1970s, partly thanks to its association with NASA’s space missions. This sweet orange-flavored beverage was touted as the drink of astronauts, sparking the imagination of children and adults alike.
Simple to prepare and affordable, Tang became a household staple, enjoyed for its convenience and novelty.
Though its prominence has waned, Tang still exists, reminding us of an era when space-age innovation reached into everyday life, capturing the excitement of interstellar exploration.
11. CB Radios
CB radios became a communication craze in the 1970s, allowing people to connect over short distances using radio frequencies. Truckers popularized this technology, using it to relay information and keep each other company on long hauls.
The general public soon adopted CB radios, who enjoyed the novelty of staying in touch while on the move.
Though largely replaced by digital communication, CB radios are still cherished by hobbyists and those nostalgic for the era of “breaker, breaker” conversations.
12. Macramé Decor
Macramé, the art of knotting, became a popular craft in the 1970s, adorning homes with handmade plant hangers and wall hangings. This intricate textile craft added a touch of bohemian flair and natural texture to interior spaces.
DIY enthusiasts embraced macramé, crafting pieces that reflected personal style and creativity.
While not as prevalent today, macramé occasionally resurfaces in modern decor trends, a nostalgic nod to the handcrafted aesthetics of the seventies, emphasizing individuality and artistic expression.
13. Roller Disco
Roller disco combined roller skating with disco music, creating a vibrant subculture in the 1970s. Skaters grooved to lively tunes under flashing lights, turning rinks into hot spots for fun and exercise.
This trend encouraged creativity, with skaters often donning flashy outfits to match the energetic atmosphere.
Though the craze has faded, roller disco events still pop up, offering a fun throwback to a time when wheels and music created unforgettable memories on the rink.
14. Shag Carpets
Shag carpets, with their long and fluffy fibers, became a hallmark of 1970s home decor. These luxurious carpets added warmth and style to living spaces, available in a range of vibrant colors.
They were popular for creating cozy and inviting areas, often paired with bold furniture designs.
While not as common today due to maintenance challenges, shag carpets remain a nostalgic symbol of seventies interior design, evoking memories of a tactile and colorful era.
15. Digital Watches
Digital watches emerged as a cutting-edge trend in the 1970s, introducing LED displays as the future of timekeeping. These watches represented technological advancement, offering a sleek and modern alternative to traditional analog timepieces.
They were embraced for their precision and futuristic appeal, capturing the imagination of those excited by innovation.
Though digital watches have evolved, the original LED designs remain a nostalgic reminder of an era that celebrated progress and modernity.
16. 8-Track Tapes
8-track tapes revolutionized the way people listened to music in the 1970s, offering portability and convenience. These cartridges allowed for continuous play without needing to flip sides, a feature that appealed to music lovers on the go.
The format became synonymous with road trips and parties, playing the decade’s hits with ease.
Although obsolete now, 8-track tapes hold a special place in music history, remembered fondly by those who cherished their favorite tunes in this innovative format.
17. Earth Shoes
Earth shoes introduced a unique design in the 1970s, featuring a negative heel that positioned the toes higher than the heel. This unconventional footwear claimed to promote better posture and comfort.
They became popular among those seeking orthopedic benefits and a connection to natural movement.
Earth shoes may have faded from mainstream fashion, but their legacy lives on as a symbol of the era’s experimentation with health and wellness, inspiring modern eco-conscious designs.
18. Quaaludes
Quaaludes, a sedative-hypnotic medication, became infamous in the 1970s for its recreational use. Known for inducing relaxation and euphoria, it was often misused, contributing to its notoriety.
The drug was frequently referenced in pop culture, embodying the hedonistic aspects of the era.
Due to its addictive potential and legal restrictions, Quaaludes are no longer available, serving as a cautionary tale of substance misuse during a time of exploration and boundary-pushing.
19. Clackers
Clackers, a toy from the 1970s, consisted of two hard balls on strings that players would swing, making them collide with a loud clack. This simple yet challenging toy captured the imagination of children.
Despite their popularity, clackers were eventually pulled due to safety concerns, as the impact sometimes caused the balls to shatter.
They remain a nostalgic reminder of a time when simple toys offered endless entertainment, sparking creativity and hand-eye coordination among those who dared to master them.
20. Rubik’s Cube
The Rubik’s Cube, a three-dimensional puzzle, captured the attention of the world in the late 1970s. This colorful cube challenged players to align each side with a single color, promoting problem-solving and spatial reasoning skills.
Though it’s less prominent now, the Rubik’s Cube remains a beloved puzzle, enjoyed by enthusiasts and competitors alike.
Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and complexity, symbolizing a time when intellectual challenges became popular pastimes, bridging generations in a shared pursuit of mastery.
21. Bohemian Fashion
Bohemian fashion flourished in the 1970s, embracing free-spirited and eclectic styles inspired by various cultures. This trend featured flowing garments, earthy tones, and intricate patterns, celebrating individuality and a connection to nature.
Layered jewelry and natural fabrics added to the boho aesthetic, appealing to those seeking artistic expression through clothing.
While fashion has evolved, bohemian styles still resonate, embodying a timeless desire for freedom and creativity, a reflection of a decade that championed self-expression.
22. Funky Patterns
Funky patterns in bold and vibrant colors became a hallmark of 1970s design, adorning everything from clothing to home decor. These eye-catching designs reflected the decade’s embrace of individuality and artistic exploration.
From swirling paisleys to geometric shapes, funky patterns added energy and personality to spaces and wardrobes.
Though styles have shifted, these designs occasionally resurface, reminding us of a time when creativity knew no bounds, encouraging bold self-expression in everyday life.
23. Avocado Green Appliances
Avocado green became a signature color for kitchen appliances in the 1970s, adding a bold touch to home decor. This unique shade was a popular choice for refrigerators, ovens, and more, creating a cohesive and trendy look.
While the color has fallen out of favor, avocado green appliances remain iconic, symbolizing a daring and vibrant decade.
Occasionally revived in retro-themed designs, this hue serves as a nostalgic nod to the past, reminding us of an era that celebrated bold and unconventional choices.
24. Cabbage Patch Dolls
Though they gained fame in the early 1980s, Cabbage Patch Dolls were conceived in the late 1970s and became beloved playthings for children. These soft-bodied dolls with unique faces were often adopted by kids, each coming with a birth certificate.
The dolls symbolized nurturing and care, resonating with children and parents alike.
Though their popularity has diminished, Cabbage Patch Dolls hold a special place in toy history, cherished by collectors and those who grew up in an era that valued creativity and imagination in play.
25. Vinyl Records
Vinyl records thrived in the 1970s, delivering music with a warmth and depth that digital formats struggle to replicate. These records were cherished by audiophiles and casual listeners alike, offering an immersive listening experience.
Album art became an important part of the experience, reflecting the creativity of the era.
While digital music dominates today, vinyl records have seen a resurgence, appreciated for their nostalgic charm and superior sound quality, a testament to a time when music was both a visual and auditory delight.
26. Polaroid Cameras
Polaroid cameras revolutionized photography in the 1970s, offering instant prints that developed before your eyes. These cameras became popular for their convenience and ability to capture moments on the spot.
They were a hit at parties and gatherings, where sharing physical photos added to the fun.
Though digital photography has taken over, Polaroid cameras remain beloved for their tactile charm and the nostalgia they evoke, a reminder of a time when capturing memories was an immediate and tangible experience.
27. Tie-Dye Shirts
Tie-dye shirts became synonymous with counterculture fashion in the 1970s, embodying the era’s embrace of individuality and creativity. These vibrant garments were often homemade, each pattern unique to the maker.
Tie-dye represented a break from mainstream norms, appealing to those who valued self-expression and artistic flair.
Though not as prevalent today, tie-dye occasionally resurfaces in fashion, a colorful reminder of a time when clothing reflected personal and cultural revolutions, inspiring creativity in everyday attire.