by Yve Goodwin

Created on: March 08, 2009   Last Updated: March 09, 2009

Farrah Fawcett, from the hit TV series Charlie's Angels, helped to make tight, flared trousers a serious fashion trend in the 1970s. By the mid to late 70's, hot-fix Swarovski crystals, embroidered designs, and Jordache jeans were all the rage. They were often worn with tight and shiny polyester butterfly collar shirts, or tie-dye coloured scoop neck tank tops. The jumpsuit also helped to define the early '70s silhouette, and hair played a big role in defining style. The rough cut hairstyle complete with feathered bangs and bouncy style demanded the constant use of tongs or heated rollers to make the hair flicker and stand out. In the 1970s the disco scene was huge, and played a vital role in influencing the fashion styles of the '70s. Discos and clubs created a venue for a new kind of clothing called disco wear. This was based on stretch clothes and accessories that were designed from light reflecting fabrics. This included materials such as: gold lame, PVC purses and satin pants, or any other material that shone under disco lighting. Stretch jersey knits, and light fabrics that floated over the body also ruled the dance floor. Waterfall necklaces, tinted aviator sunglasses, platform heels and gold disco pumps ruled when it came to accessories.

Today a wide variety of trends and styles rule our fashion senses! Jeans have been reborn in '09 with the same sleek look. Textured styles, dark colors, acid distressed and stone washed denim fabrics (with or without extra Lycra) create smart silhouettes. The various styles have been re-vamped in Spring 2009 to include: the straight leg, flare, boot-cut, cropped and turned up ankle styles. More coverage is the order of the day, with Lady-like style tops designed with modest sleeves making a comeback!

Tops are made from fabrics with sheen, and from a variety of textures. Asymmetrical, one-shoulder, peek-a-boo sheer styles, with a modest fit add glamour and elegance to the female form. The jumpsuit has made a comeback in every leg width and fabric choice, with the most popular designs created in silk, satin and crepe. Vibrant color blocked combinations, lemon yellows, antique golds and soft fruity palettes are present, and help to soften an entire look. Hairstyles still define personal style, but for the most part reflect more relaxed and natural looks. Today's latest hair trends range from: cropped to long flowing locks, from straight and sleek to mermaid styles, and yes, even milkmaid braids! Now thanks to Kate Moss and her per-oxide blonde, blunt cut, fringed style of 2007; she has successfully continued to fuel the per-oxide trend through 2009.

Night-time glamour has been re-invented with one-shoulder style dresses (made popular by Michelle Obama's one-shoulder Inauguration Ball Gown) that light up the night. While embellished hemlines designed with wrinkled chiffons, raised brocades and high-pleated trims create emphasis and glamour. Finally the creative use of accessories helps to give the present styles of today that retro '70s flavour. Mulit-chain necklaces, stacked bangles, and chunky textured styles compliment sleek and stylish necklines. High, open-toed, strappy heels and gladiator strap sandals in all colours and textures make the legs look fabulous when worn with cropped leggings, or three quarter pants. Finally accenting an outfit with a classically styled, shiny leather/patent purse, or rose covered handbag, ties all of these cool retro pieces together; therefore creating a chic and stylish silhouette made for 2009.

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