Vintage 70s shirts: this is how you recognize and wear them

Vintage 70s shirts you cannot recognize them by just one detail. It is precisely the combination of collar, print, cut, label and fabric that determines the character. At EcoGents we regularly receive real vintage shirts and modern shirts with a clear 70's look. We try to identify that difference as honestly as possible.

What makes a shirt typically 1970s?

The men's fashion of the 1970s was broad. Not every man wore a psychedelic floral print and not every shirt had a huge collar. Yet there are features that often recur and together give a strong impression of the era.

• Large point collars: long, sharp collar points are one of the best-known details.
• Outspoken prints: paisley, geometric motifs, floral, abstract and graphic.
• Typical colours: brown, rust, orange, olive, mustard, cream, burgundy, petrol and dark blue.
• Checks and stripes: not everything was colorful; calm checks and stripes could just as well be typical of the period.
• Other proportions: many models fit straighter, wider or longer than modern slim-fit shirts.

The collar tells a lot

The collar is often the first detail we look at. A wide pointed collar or so-called dagger collar can be a strong indication, especially in combination with an older label and matching finish. But a large collar alone does not prove age: modern brands now consciously make retro models.

That is why we always judge the whole and not one individual feature.

Which fabrics were used?

1970s shirts are made from a variety of materials. Polyester and synthetic blends were common, but cotton and other fibers were also used. Some fabrics feel smooth, heavy or jersey-like; others dry and firm.

At EcoGents we only mention the material when a label or other reliable information confirms this. Especially with older clothing, it is risky to tell by feeling that something is silk, viscose or a specific blend.

How do you date a vintage shirt?

Exact dating is often more difficult than it seems. A useful assessment consists of several clues:

• the brand and size label;
• washing and material labels;
• country of production;
• collar shape and cuffs;
• cut and length;
• buttons and finishing;
• print and use of color.

No part is self-contained. That is why when in doubt, we prefer to use terms like 70's style or retro rather than an exact dating that we cannot prove.

Vintage sizing: look beyond M, L or XL

An old size label does not always say the same as a modern one. size. A vintage size 41, 42 or 16½ may fit differently than you expect based on contemporary clothing. Some shirts are also cut longer or wider.

Therefore, look at actual measurements such as armpit-to-armpit, back length and sleeve length. That's more reliable than just the label.

How do you wear a 70s shirt?

You don't have to turn it into a complete themed outfit. Often one strong shirt is enough.

• Calm: wear a bold print with dark trousers or simple jeans.
• Dressed: combine with a calm gilet or jacket.
• Casual: open collar, simple trousers and a leather or suede jacket.
• More vintage: combine color tones from the shirt with rib, tweed or a classic tie.

Read also how to wear a vintage shirt? for more combinations.

When to dress up retro?

The easiest mistake is that all parts require attention at the same time. Big collar, busy print, striking waistcoat, wide tie and special trousers can be too much. Therefore, choose one or two strong elements and leave the rest more relaxed.

That also fits better with how many men want to wear vintage nowadays: with character, but not as if they are on their way to a theme party.

Really vintage or 70's style?

A modern shirt can fit perfectly within a 70's look without being from that period. That doesn't have to be a disadvantage. For EcoGents it is more important that the description is correct. If the age is demonstrable, we will mention it. If only the appearance is clear, we use '70's ​​style'.

Details that are extra interesting when purchasing

At EcoGents we don't just look at a striking print when it comes to 70s shirts. It is precisely combinations of details that make a piece interesting: a large pointed collar with a calm check, special cuffs, an unusual color combination or a fabric structure that you see less often in modern shirts.

A busy print is therefore not automatically better. Some of the strongest vintage shirts are relatively quiet, but have a cut, collar or color scheme that clearly comes from a different period.

What do you look for in the condition of an old shirt?

With older shirts, the collar and cuffs are the first places to look closely. This is often where wear and tear occurs first. Also check armpits, buttonholes, seams and any discolouration. A beautiful design is worth little if the garment is structurally damaged.

With polyester and other synthetic fabrics, a shirt can still look remarkably fresh after decades, while cotton can show more signs of wear. That does not automatically say anything about quality; they are simply different materials with different wearing and wear behavior.

Buying a 70s shirt: where do you start?

First look at what you are actually going to wear. If you want something for everyday use, choose a color or print that matches trousers and jackets you already have. If you are looking for a distinctive piece for a party, stage or event, you can go further in color and design.

The best purchase is ultimately not the shirt that is the most spectacular in itself, but the one that really fits into your wardrobe in terms of size, condition and character.

1970s shirts at EcoGents

In our collection years 70 shirts you will find a variety of shirts: from calm checks to paisley, geometric prints and large pointed collars. For a wider range, you can also look at the vintage shirts and print shirts.

There is always more in the store in Tilburg than online. Everything is checked and sorted by size, so you can immediately compare which cut and collar suits you best.