Creative Liberation, a 70s Shift

In more ways than one, the 70s were a game changing period. It was an age defined by its rebellious attitude and a shedding of the lingering traditionalism of previous years. An era of independence, the decade catalyzed revolutionary developments in the world of music, film and fashion. Still to this day, the influence of the 70s is not lost on us.

On Netflix, pieces inspired by the period have gained popularity. Shows like The Serpent and Halston embody viewer’s desire to journey into the past. And in music, things are following a similar path; American musician St. Vincent just released her latest album, Daddy’s Home, which is said to have been influenced by the sounds of Prince, David Bowie and Grace Jones.

After all, the 70s were a time of unabashed exploration, so it’s not surprising that we seem to keep returning to it for new inspirations. From the screen to the catwalk, we take a look at some significant 70s influences of today.

The knee-jerk reaction to describe the 70s is to reference the beginnings of hippiedom and spirituality, but it was also a time full of contrasting lifestyles such as ones of high-end glamour and decadence. Marking the thriving years of these various subcultures and counter-cultures, BBC crime drama The Serpent epitomizes the duality of these years perfectly. A re-telling of the man-hunt for the serial killer Charles Sobhraj (Tahar Rahim), the series is a sinister dramatization of Sobhraj’s abject criminality and eventual capture. Flitting through various timelines and cities across Europe and Asia, the show has captured audiences’ imaginations with suspenseful storytelling and vivid scenery. Alongside the storyline, the show’s chic styling is another reason to watch the eerie drama.

One of the most captivating characters is Marie-Andrée Leclerc, Sobhraj’s devoted follower and lover during those years. Depicted by English actress Jenna Coleman, Leclerc’s character is ambiguous, a willing pawn who seems to have little trouble going along with her boyfriend’s increasingly dangerous schemes. In the beginning of the series, Lelerc ensnares viewers with her high-glamour appearance; a combination of both immaculate jet-setter and feminine flower child.

On the runway, recent collections also seem to be pushing a love for the decade. Big frames made a statement back then, and the same evocative silhouettes have inspired Italian houses Bottega Veneta and Gucci in their latest eyewear collections; showcased by the timeless combination of oversized, rectangular frames accented by tinted lenses, and thick metal rims in metallic shades of gold and silver. Dior also referenced the laid-back Bohemian spirit with its Spring collection, featuring styles such as embroidered caftans, gold jewelry and geometric teashades.

Musicians like Harry Styles, Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak have also been spotted on the red carpet sporting head-to-toe looks inspired by the times. At last weeks BRIT awards, Styles wore a full Gucci patchwork suit with a bamboo handle purse, a look that can only be described as distinctly retro.

Curious for more 70s brilliance? We invite you to listen to a themed playlist featuring funky sounds of the decade, curated by our editorial team.

Creative Direction: Daniela Vutera
Photography: Ignazio Marsolo