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Trend report: The ‘70s are back! (How to look chic, not tacky)

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Ready or not, the ‘70s are back! But this time, designers are putting a modern twist on groovy ‘70s staples. Check out this trend report for funky updates to your favorite ‘70s fashions. Find out how to wear ‘70s styles and look chic, not tacky.

’70s glam

The ’70s jumpsuit got a much-needed makeover thanks to this chic and feminine outfit from Ramy Brook ($495). The classic silk stretch charmeuse fabric of this jumpsuit (shown in mocha) has a ’70s disco-inspired edge. Wear it for a night out with the girls or a romantic date night.

The iconic bell-bottom

They’re back! The infamous flared and wide-legged pants are back and better than ever, thanks to popular runway fashions. Though most 70s-inspired bell-bottoms feature a high-waist, (like the version from H&M, shown above) there are some mid-rise options, too. Check out this trendy pair of bell-bottom jeans from Seven for All Mankind, available on their site for $198. These pants fit slim through the hips and thigh, then flare to a large bell-bottom leg opening below the knee.

On the fringe

Nothing says ’70s style quite like fringe, fringe and more fringe! In the ’70s, fringe was popular on dresses, skirts, hair accessories, shoes and bags. This spring, fringe is making a comeback, appearing on dresses, leather jackets, jumpsuits, jewelry and accessories.

When it comes to fringe bags and purses, keep your fringe in check by opting for a bag in a classic shade like brown or black. Check out our favorite fringed-out ’70s styles:

This leather cross-body purse from Badgley Mischka is an updated version of a ’70s fringed-out classic. Available on Zappos.com for $435.

Steve Madden puts an urban twist on chic style with this cross-body synthetic leather bag. Check it out on Zappos.com for $88.

Fringe isn’t just for bags. Get your fringe on with this statement fringe necklace from Juicy Couture. Available for $128 on Couture.Zappos.com.

Accessorize

In the ’70s-inspired H&M spring 2011 magazine, model Jacquelyn Jablonski is perfectly styled with trendy, chic, ’70s jewelry, including plenty of bangles and bracelets, long necklaces and large, dangly earrings. Here are a couple of our favorite ’70s accessories to add to your wardrobe this spring:

This pair of long, feather earrings is a must for 70s style this spring. Available for $3.80 on Forever21.com.

This unique, ’70s-inspired leatherette and chains necklace features a faux stone charm with crackled details. Find it on Forever21.com for $6.80.

Bring out your inner flower child with this beaded flower bracelet from Forever21.com, selling for $8.80.

Make a statement with this bold, oversized Boho stone ring, available at Forever21.com for just $2.80.

Easy does it

In order to pull off the ’70s trend and look chic, not tacky, it’s important to remember not to over-do it. Pick two or three of your favorite elements of ’70s style instead of dressing ’70s from head-to-toe. This important rule will help keep your outfit trendy, current and chic, and help you avoid looking like you’re headed to a costume party.

Wondering how to pull this look together?
Check out our photo gallery: The ’70s are back! How to look chic, not tacky >>

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