Disco is a genre of dance music that emerged in the 1970s from the United States’ urban nightlife scene. Its sound is typified by four-on-the-floor beats, syncopated basslines, string sections, horns, electric piano, synthesizers, and electric rhythm guitars.
The disco style is all about having fun and being flashy. From big hair to sequined dresses, this style is all about making a statement. If you want to stand out on the dance floor, then the disco style is for you!
The disco craze in the U.S. was all about breaking boundaries and representing the social movements of the ’60s, from hippie counterculture to the sexual revolution. Disco clubs were places where people from all different backgrounds could come together and express themselves through music and dance. One of the most famous disco clubs was Studio 54 in New York.
About the Disco Fashion Style
The Old Days
The origins of disco can be traced back to the early 1970s when a new style of music called “funk” began to emerge. Funk was a type of soul music that was characterized by a heavy groove and a feeling of intensity. This new style of music quickly became popular with African American audiences, and soon began to spread to other parts of the country.
One of the earliest examples of disco can be found in the song “Hot Stuff” by Donna Summer, which was released in 1975. This song is considered to be one of the first disco hits, and it helped to establish the genre as a force to be reckoned with. Disco continued to grow in popularity throughout the late 1970s, and by the early 1980s, it had become one of the most popular types of music in the world.
Disco Icons
Disco music icons are the artists who defined the disco era. They created the sound and style that came to define the genre, and their influence is still felt today. From the Bee Gees to Donna Summer, these are the artists who made disco what it was.
Donna Summer was one of the most popular disco singers of the 1970s, and her hits such as “Last Dance” and “Bad Girls” are still well-loved today. The Bee Gees were also huge in the disco scene, with hits like “Stayin’ Alive” and “Night Fever” becoming global anthems. Another popular disco band from the 70s was Chic. They had massive success with their song “Le Freak”, which is still considered one of the most iconic disco tracks of all time.
Disco Fashion Style
The disco fashion of the 1970s was all about having fun and being flashy. Sequins, feathers, and glitter were all key ingredients to a disco outfit. Women wore tight, revealing clothes that showed off their curves, while men donned tight pants and open shirts. Platform shoes were also popular, as they added extra height and helped people look their best on the dance floor.
Tips for Disco Fashion Style
Disco is all about having fun and being flashy, so your outfit should reflect that! Go for bright colors and sparkly fabrics to really stand out on the dance floor. Sequins, fringe, and platforms are all great choices to get that disco look. And don’t forget the all-important disco ball necklace!
1. Embrace the Sequins
One of the cardinal rules of disco fashion is that there’s no such thing as too much sparkle. Sequined dresses, tops, and even pants were all the rage during the disco era. When styling a sequined piece, keep the rest of your outfit relatively simple to let the glittering item take center stage.
2. Opt for Bold, Vibrant Colors
Disco fashion was all about standing out, and one way to do this is by embracing bold, vibrant colors. Think hot pinks, electric blues, fiery oranges, and brilliant yellows. You can wear a single color head-to-toe for a bold, monochromatic look, or mix and match different hues for a daring, colorful ensemble.
3. Flaunt the Flares
Flared pants, also known as bell bottoms, are a quintessential disco-era clothing item. They’re not only super flattering but also perfect for dancing. Pair them with a fitted top to balance out the silhouette, or with a loose, flowy blouse for a full-on ’70s vibe.
4. Don’t Shy Away from Satin and Velvet
Luxurious fabrics like satin and velvet were popular in disco fashion. Satin dresses or blouses can add a touch of glamour to your outfit, while velvet pants or jackets can give off a rich, sophisticated vibe.
5. Accessorize with Statement Pieces
Oversized sunglasses, chunky bracelets, big hoop earrings, and long, layered necklaces were all staples of the disco era. They can help to elevate your outfit and give it that authentic ’70s touch.
6. Wear Platform Shoes
Platform shoes were a disco-era essential, perfect for adding height and making a statement. Choose a pair with a chunky heel for comfort, especially if you’re planning to dance the night away.
Disco Don’ts
While disco style is all about expressing yourself and having fun, there are a few things to avoid when putting together your disco-inspired outfit:
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Don’t Overdo It: Yes, disco style is flamboyant, but avoid wearing all the trends at once. If your outfit includes sequins, bold colors, flares, and statement accessories, it can quickly become overwhelming. Try to focus on one or two key elements instead.
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Don’t Forget About Comfort: If you’re heading to a disco-themed party, chances are you’ll be doing a lot of dancing. So, while those sky-high platforms might look fabulous, make sure you can comfortably move in them before you hit the dance floor.
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Don’t Be Afraid to Be You: The most important rule in disco fashion, and in fashion in general, is to wear what makes you feel good. If you’re not comfortable in sequins or bold colors, there are other ways to channel the disco vibe. For example, you can opt for a black jumpsuit with flared legs, or a simple dress in a metallic fabric.
So there you have it – your guide to nailing the disco look. Remember, disco fashion is all about having fun and expressing your personal style, so don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on these tips. Happy styling!
Here are some of our favourite disco looks and how to style them.
Disco Style Outfit Ideas
1. Metallic fabrics
The 1970s were a time of disco and glamour, and metallic fabrics were a big part of that. Sequins, lamé, and foil were all popular choices for party dresses and clubwear. The disco aesthetic was all about shining and standing out, and these fabrics helped people do just that.
Today, metallic fabrics are making a comeback in the fashion world. They can be found on everything from dresses to handbags to shoes. And while they might not be quite as over-the-top as they were in the 1970s, they still have that same sense of glamour and fun. If you’re looking to make a statement, a metallic fabric is a great way to do it.
2. Oversized jewellery
The disco fashion era was all about making a statement with your clothing and accessories. Oversized earrings were a popular choice for many disco divas, as they helped to create an exaggerated and glamorous look. While some women opted for more understated earrings, others went all out with sparkly, glitzy designs. Disco fashion was all about having fun and being bold, and oversized earrings were the perfect way to make a statement.
3. Colourful Prints
The 1970s were a decade of experimentation in fashion, and that included prints. Bright, bold and often clashy, prints were everywhere in the 1970s. From floral prints to geometric patterns, there was no shortage of variety. And while some might say that the prints were a bit too loud, there’s no denying that they made a statement. Today, we often look back at the 1970s as a decade of fun and freedom, and the prints reflect that. They were a way to express oneself and to stand out from the crowd.
4. White Chunky Boots
The 70s were a time of fashion experimentation, and that extended to footwear. Chunky, clunky boots were all the rage, and they came in all sorts of colors and styles. White was a popular choice, especially for those who wanted to make a statement. These boots were often paired with miniskirts or flares, and they added a touch of edge to any outfit. Today, white chunky boots are making a comeback, and they still have the same ability to turn heads.
5. Platform Heels
Platform heels and disco fashion go hand in hand. The extra height that platform heels provide helps to elongate the look of the leg, making it appear longer and slimmer. This is especially flattering when paired with a short skirt or dress. Disco fashion is all about flashy and fun style, so platform heels are the perfect finishing touch. They add a touch of glamour and can help you to stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re hitting the dance floor or just strutting your stuff down the street, platform heels and disco fashion are a winning combination.
6. Groovy Jumpsuit
The disco era was all about having fun and letting loose. Groovy jumpsuits are the perfect fashion choice for dancing the night away. They are comfortable, stylish, and made you feel like you could conquer the world. When you wear a disco jumpsuit, you are ready to take on anything.
7. Colorful Sunglasses
The disco fashion and funky glasses are the perfect way to add some fun and flair to your look. The glasses are available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find the perfect pair to match your outfit. The disco fashion is all about having fun and being bold, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and colors.
Elton John is known for his outrageous fashion sense, and his glasses are no exception. He has been spotted wearing a variety of different styles, from oversized aviators to brightly colored cat-eye frames. No matter what he’s wearing, though, his glasses are always a statement piece.
Elton John’s glasses are just one example of his unique style. He has a flair for the dramatic and is always willing to take risks with his fashion choices. Whether he’s wearing a outrageous costume or a simple pair of jeans, he always looks like he’s having fun with his clothes. And that’s what fashion is all about!
8. Wide-Leg Trousers
In the 1970s, disco fashion was all about flashy sequins, tight dresses, and platform shoes. But one of the most iconic disco looks was the wide leg trousers. These trousers were usually made of polyester and had a super flared silhouette. They were often worn with a tight fitting top and platform heels. Wide leg trousers were the perfect disco fashion statement because they were both sexy and comfortable.
9. Headbands
Headbands were huge in the disco era, often worn as a fashion statement. Headbands were often brightly colored and made of materials like sequins or feathers. They were the perfect accessory for a night out on the dance floor.
Today, headbands are making a comeback as a fashion trend. They are often seen on the runways and red carpets. Designers are creating modern takes on the disco headband, with new materials and styles. Whether you are looking for a statement piece or a simple accessory, a headband is a great way to add a little disco flair to your look.
10. Funky Denim
Denim was once just a sturdy fabric used for workwear, but it has since become a fashion staple. Today, there are all sorts of denim garments to choose from, including jeans, jackets, skirts, and even dresses. And while denim is often associated with a more casual style, it can also be dressed up for a more formal look.
One of the most popular denim trends right now is the “funky” look, which is all about pairing denim with bright, bold, and unexpected colors and patterns. Think denim jackets with leopard print lining, or jeans with a floral print. This trend is all about having fun with your fashion and standing out from the crowd.
What is your favourite disco look? Who’s your disco inspiration?
