Reviving 70s-Inspired Nail Trends for the Modern Era
Groovy! Let’s check out these 70s-inspired nail trends! That decade was all about self-expression and individuality. There was Flower Power, Disco Fever, and plenty of anti-war protests for peace. So, don your bell bottoms and platform shoes, and let's take a walk through nail art history!
Retro Nail Art Based on 1970s Style
When you search for images of 70s retro nail art, you'll come across psychedelic swirls and funky flower prints. You'll see patterns based on mustard yellow, mossy green, and umber. It's not like the people of the time were wearing these patterns on their nails. It's because modern nail artists have looked at the styles of the time and brought them back to life with a contemporary twist. Take this example based on Flower Power and the Grateful Dead.
It’s instantly recognizable as retro nail art. But it's less obvious that the subtle brown, peach, and cream swirls below owe their existence to 1970s influences. Bet you didn’t know swirly nail art was a vintage trend.
Look closely, and you can see a hint of gold shimmer. Gold nails and metallic makeup were hot during the age of Disco Fever.
OPI 3 In 1 - F06 Rust & Relaxation - Dip, Gel & Lacquer Matching
If you want a bolder look, these nails are ready to boogie!
LAVIS Glitter G03 - 11 - Gel Polish 0.5 Oz - Barbie Collection
Moreover, long fake nails became trendy in the 1970s, especially silk-wrapped styles. Most had rounded or oval shapes.
In contrast, this decade was when the French manicure was invented. It began as a way for actresses to do rapid costume changes, and it turned into the hip style for the rich and famous.
French tips are endlessly adaptable. Instead of the basic pink and white, now anyone can enjoy color variations like this funky tie-dyed mani. Doing a look like this is a piece of cake with line art gel.
So, how can you bring back the '70s on your nails? Try an avocado green and gray floral design for a nod to what came before. Fashion eventually recycles everything, even the colors of your grandmother’s fridge!
Lavis Gel Nail Polish Duo - 036 Green Colors - Bamboo Winds
Influences on 1970s Fashion and Nails
The 1970s was a busy time, culturally speaking. This decade encouraged experimentation, individuality, and self-expression. Events such as the feminist movement, disco culture, and the Vietnam War influenced fashion and beauty choices in the 70s.
In the 1970s, the feminist movement was in full swing, advocating for women's rights. These activities significantly impacted fashion and beauty choices as women wanted to express themselves in ways that challenged traditional gender roles. Nail trends during this time reflected this empowerment as women embraced bolder colors than the 1960s pastels. They also lengthened their nails as they asserted their independence and individuality.
Then, the rise of disco culture initiated a new era of glamour and extravagance. Discotheques became the heart of social life, where people dressed in flamboyant outfits. This culture of excess infused fashion and beauty trends, including nail art, with metallic, glittery themes.
Lastly, the Vietnam War era was a period of great social and political upheaval. There were widespread protests against the war. This period of unrest affected fashion and beauty choices in visible ways. People expressed their values through their appearance. In contrast to flashy disco nails, natural and minimalist nail styles also emerged as a symbol of solidarity with anti-war sentiments.
It’s interesting to think about current world events and see how they aren’t so different from those turbulent times. No wonder we’re bringing back vintage styles.
If you prefer a nail design that’s unmistakably 70’s-inspired, here are a few based on wall art, rugs, and home décor of the time.
But wait, why not go to the source? Here are even more patterns to inspire you.
70s Celebrities Who Inspired Nail Trends
Cher is celebrated for her daring fashion choices. She was a top style icon in the 1970s. With her extravagant costumes and ever-evolving looks, Cher's influence also extended to nail trends. She wore vibrant and unconventional colors like passionate reds, metallics, and glitter polishes. Cher's fearless approach to fashion and beauty encouraged her fans to try bold new nail designs and inspired a generation of trendsetters as a result.
David Bowie's groundbreaking music and avant-garde style made him a trailblazer in the 1970s. As a gender-bending icon, Bowie challenged traditional notions of masculinity and femininity. His eclectic fashion extended to nail art, with the musician flaunting edgy manicures, like teal nails, that kept everyone talking.
Farrah Fawcett is one of the most recognizable faces of the 1970s. As a style icon, Farrah's natural and effortless beauty influenced nail trends towards understated elegance. She wore soft and neutral nail colors, such as sheer nudes. This minimalist approach was a harbinger of the clean aesthetic popular right now.
What Colors for '70s Nails?
Let’s cover the best shades to get your groove on. In the 1970s, popular nail colors included various shades of red and pastel favorites from the prior decade. Earthy hues like rust brown, avocado, burnt orange, and cream were in everyone’s homes. Teal, navy, and raspberry were popular for hippie designs.
Here are some examples to get you started:
Sultry red that women were prohibited from wearing to work:
LDS 042 So Marilyn - LDS Gel Polish 0.5oz
Hot pink for psychedelic designs:
Lavis Gel Nail Polish Duo - 207 Vintage Rose Colors - Valentine
Creamy white to make other colors pop:
LDS GW - 06 - Gentle White Collection
Get nostalgic with the same yellow everyone had in their living room:
SNS CY15 - Hold The Mustard - SNS Gel Polish & Matching Nail Lacquer Duo Set - 0.5oz
Not olive drab, but more of a mossy green like Grandma’s couch:
DND DC Gel Nail Polish Duo - 323 Moss Colors - Vintage
Move over, Ziggy Stardust:
Lavis Gel Nail Polish Duo - 200 Teal Colors - Tempo Teal
We can’t take our eyes off this vintage lavender:
Lavis Gel Nail Polish Duo - 114 Vintage, Rose Colors - Rosebay
Warm brown to counterbalance burnt orange:
Lavis Gel Nail Polish Duo - 272 Brown Colors - Caramel
These are just a few of our favorite retro colors for 1970s nail art. We’re sure you can find even more as you browse our collections. Remember, the 70s were into self-expression, so have fun!
Conclusion
What 70s-inspired nail trend will you try first? If you need to gather polish colors and supplies before your blast to the past, we’ve got what you need! Stock up now and get free shipping on orders over $100. Far out!
