Nauer: Styles from the 1970s coming back for spring

While browsing shopbop.com the other day, I came across a section of clothing called ‘Updated… While browsing shopbop.com the other day, I came across a section of clothing called ‘Updated ’70s.’ I fell in love.

But this wasn’t the first time I discovered I had a thing for that decade. In elementary school, I think the ’70s had a bit of a revival (maybe sparked in 1995 by ‘The Brady Bunch Movie’), and I remember when bell-bottomed jeans, smiley faces, peace signs and anything tie-dyed was especially groovy.

Flash forward about 10 years and my impression of the ‘Updated ’70s’ look is less about tie-dye and peace signs and more about the cool senior girls that haze poor little freshmen from the movie ‘Dazed and Confused,’ with their cut-off shorts, high-rise jeans and leather shoulder bags.

This look actually probably works best if you resemble Whitney Port from ‘The Hills’ with her tall, thin frame and blonde, tousled hair twisted back from her face. But there are a lot of ways to work this particular trend. Light-wash bell bottoms, plaid shirts, flowy embroidered dresses, leather sandals, cool belts, platform sandals, earthy-looking jewelry, fringed vests and cool vintage T-shirts can all make up this look.

For ’70s flare jeans, chickdowntown.com recommends Current/Elliot’s ‘The Mini Pocket,’ J Brand’s ‘Doll’ or ‘Lovestory’ styles or 7 For All Mankind’s ‘Ginger’ cut.

For a style a little easier on the wallet, try Express’ Wide-Leg Sailor Jean featuring ultra lightweight denim and a loose fit. Forever 21 still has skinny jeans on heavy rotation, but the distressed Anya Flare can give your legs some much needed room to breathe. Tuck a plaid into any pair, complete the look with a belt, and you’ve got a sexy ’70s look.

If the thought of jeans during the summer months makes you feel sweaty, try slipping on a pair of classic Levi’s 501 cutoff shorts from Urban Outfitters that look like they have been ‘loved for years’ with a ‘vintage-inspired, broken-in look,’ says the Web site.

Or wiggle your way into True Religion’s ‘Joey Cutoff Shorts.’ Add a vintage band tee and someone might mistake you for a groupie. Or keep it light with Juicy Couture’s white ‘Zoe Embroidered Smocked Hippie Top.’

For a more easy-breezy ’70s style, try the white ‘Floral Embroidered Chiffon Dress’ from Forever 21 with an empire waist, smocked detailing and colorful embroidery.

To complete any look, the right footwear is essential. Aldo has a nice selection of wedges, platforms and flat sandals. The ‘Brozek’ wedge platform sandal features multiple buckled straps, comes in a pretty brown color called cognac and would look perfect peeking out from under a new pair of bell bottoms.

If you’re tall — or just value comfort — Aldo’s ‘Doriean’ flats are made of soft leather and have a cool ankle tie. The style comes in gold and black, but I’d recommend the dark brown if you’re attempting to look like you’ve stepped out of the ’70s.

An updated ’70s style is a great jumping-off point and inspiration for summer. Anyone’s parents could actually offer some advice since they actually lived during that time period. Maybe they’ll even have some cool leftovers like jewelry and vintage T-shirts. You’ll be looking like a foxy lady either way.