Not Bell-Bottoms, Not Platform Shoes: This Is The '70s Fashion Trend Making A Major Comeback

Everything old is new again, and this year, fashion trends from the 1970s are enjoying fresh relevance. From throwback shoe styles to killer '70s haircuts that still work in 2026, we're seeing retro aesthetics worked seamlessly into modern wardrobes. And one of the biggest vintage trends is also one of the simplest and most achievable: headscarves.

That's right — sassy headscarves are once again storming our fashion feeds. Recently spotted on trend-setting celebs like Zendaya, Sabrina Carpenter, and Hailey Bieber, these easy, breezy accessories are an easy way to instantly level up your 'fits in 2026. Pragmatically speaking, we love that they're light, portable, and versatile. Just tie a scarf around your handbag handle or tuck it through your belt loop to keep it always on hand. Style-wise, a headscarf can add much-needed punctuation to any outfit, whether you're upscaling a casual ensemble with fancy fabrics or softening a look with feminine details.

For a headscarf that will elevate your look, silk scarves can't be beat. They have that subtle sheen, that airy flutter, and often incorporate refined patterns. Better yet, silk scarves are very in vogue. "Nostalgia is particularly influential right now," Laia Farran Graves, author of "The Story of the Hermès Scarf," told Harper's Bazaar in February 2026. "The silk scarf represents heritage and tradition, appealing to those who seek authenticity."

Big in both the 1970s and the 1990s, silk scarves stand among several trends that are hot for millennials and nostalgic for boomers, and the silky fabric does all the heavy lifting when it comes to emphasizing refinement. Try pairing these scarves with at least one tailored piece, like a sharp blazer or a fitted skirt, to create a striking contrast between structure and softness. And to keep things extra chic, opt for neutral, understated colors like white, black, gray, brown, or beige, which will often play well with your other garments or accessories.

Of course, fabric isn't the end-all, be-all. Whether you're styling satin or burlap, you can also imbue elegance through the arrangement of your headscarf. For a true '70s vibe, use your scarf like a wide hairband, letting your loose tresses or styled updo spill out behind. This creates an artful accent that works great with some hoops or other statement earrings. You can also go for an earlier throwback by tying your scarf beneath the chin, evoking the Old Hollywood glamor of figures like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. What's classier than that?

If you're putting together a more low-key look, headscarves can also be used to add rustic charm or grungy attitude. For instance, you might set aside chic silk for a more casual option like printed cotton, crochet, or lace-trimmed bandanas. In the 1970s, late-stage hippies particularly loved crochet, using the stylized knitwear for everything from ponchos to purses. So if you want to capitalize on the atmosphere of that era, a crochet headscarf is perfectly retro.

Here, too, the way you tie your bandana can make all the difference to its visual impact. For a classically pastoral vibe, fold your headscarf into a large triangle, drape the folded edge over your forehead, and tie the knot at the nape of your neck, letting the loose ends drape over your hair in a milkmaid-esque silhouette. Or you can add a rakish edge to your look by tying your scarf straight across your brow, knotting it at the back like a pirate.

Styling a casual headscarf offers a lot more freedom in terms of color and pattern, letting you play with bright hues and interesting textures. But to ensure your outfits feel contemporary and intentional rather than chaotic and costumey, be sure to mix in a modern point of view. For instance, casual headscarves go great with oversized silhouettes, cropped proportions, and monochromatic looks. Remember, you're dressing for 2026, not 1976, so you don't want to mimic '70s fashions beat for beat. That said, there are plenty of other vintage styles worth reimagining — don't miss the 1960s-inspired fashion trends making a comeback this year.