Seventies style has quickly established itself as the trend trumping all others this season. Polo necks and thigh high boots are everywhere, while self-respecting high street stores have produced the season’s must-have camel coat in all styles imaginable. 

While the cuts – A-line skirts, flares and peasant blouses – are flattering and easy to wear, it is also easy to get the style wrong. If you wear a camel dress with your camel coat and camel boots, you will, almost certainly, end up looking like a camel.

Here’s how to do the trend without going overboard.

The camel coat

You would be forgiven for wondering if the high street has forgotten other colour palettes exist this winter, with Topshop currently stocking no fewer than 14 different styles. Rich camel hues are an easy way to channel the 70s without committing to the bold statement of flares or a boho maxi dress, and the camel coat has been spotted on celebs from Alexa Chung to Kim Kardashian. But unless you are part of that scene, wear one camel item at a time.

Shearling

Shearling is cashing in on the 70s’ fixation with texture, and the Stella McCartney catwalk at London Fashion week decreed the bold may step out in floor-length fake fur coats. If you were wary of looking like a camel, the risk of looking a sheep is much greater. The timid can avoid this with shearling trim, while the brave should throw a full sheepskin coat over jeans and boots – and steer clear of anyone holding a glass of mulled wine.

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Thigh-high boots

Previously deemed too raunchy for serious day wear, the thigh-high has established itself as the boot of choice. Whether skin-tight heels or riding boot-inspired flats, they are perfect for dressing down evening wear or dressing up jeans. The thigh-high will always be a statement, so keep the rest of the outfit simple and enjoy those toasty legs.

The polo neck

The polo neck is a staple of any 70s wardrobe, having come back into fashion a couple of years ago. But before tugging that trusty jersey number over your head, shop around – from fine knits to chunky funnel necks and ribbed crops, there is no excuse for a boring neckline this winter.

Suede

If you can get it in camel, you can probably also get it in suede – and the catwalk saw Derek Lam dressing models head to toe in the fabric. Do not try this at home. While you may get away with suede boots and jacket, don’t wear a long coat over a dress. One suede item at a time is preferable, two the limit.

Bold patterns

Nothing says 70s like a bright print. Bold tunics with balloon sleeves layer well over those thigh-high boots, jeans or even a midi skirt. Wear one pattern at a time to avoid giving those around you a migraine.

Flares

The flattering silhouette of the 70s flare has finally started to put the skinny in its place after a decade at the top. And it’s not just jeans – Balmain sent lace wide legs down the catwalk while corduroy bell bottoms are the high street’s trouser of choice. But to ensure your flares have longevity, stick to denim – floral legwear may be on trend now but will you still wear it next year? If the answer is no, that is probably a good reason not to invest now.

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