The disco era lasted roughly between 1974 and 1980 and was a musical outgrowth of funk and soul music. Up-tempo and danceable, disco reigned in the club scene during the waning years of the decade. Far more than just a musical genre, disco was a cultural movement with its own sartorial aesthetic. Though the era has long since ended, its spirit is revived at disco-themed parties. If you are attending such a party, get the look with 1970s clothes and accessories.
Women
Don hot pants, mini-skirts, or midi-skirts. Hot pants were actually extremely short, tight shorts. Midi-skirts extended to mid-calf and, on the dance floor, were often narrow with thigh-high side slits. Form-fitting mini-skirts and dresses were frequently made of leather and metallics.
Wear bright colors and shiny fabrics -- synthetics such as Lycra and Spandex were popular. Sequins and metallics fit right into the look. Fabric sheen was popular in disco-wear because it caught and reflected the nightclub lights.
Apply heavy makeup, especially eye-liner, eye-shadow and false eyelashes. It was an era of big makeup, big hair, and big shoulder pads. Do not be afraid to exaggerate.
Accessorize with hats, big glasses, over-sized gold or beaded jewelry, large handbags and platform heels.
Men
Wear a tight-fitting, shiny satin or polyester button-down shirt for the quintessential disco look. These shirts were typically worn with the upper few buttons undone.
Color-coordinate your shirt, pants and jacket, preferably in white or bright hues. Wear the shirt collar flared-out in a butterfly style. The pants should be bell bottoms, but slim-fitting over the thighs.
Don a pair of matching platform shoes.
Add flash with a heavy gold chain or medallion prominently displayed at the open collar.
References
Writer Bio
David Ferris started writing professionally in 2006 and has been published in several newspapers. He has worked in a variety of fields including education and law. He strives to one day be an authority on all subjects, great and small. Ferris has a Bachelor of Arts in political science.