Have you ever found yourself scrolling through vintage photos or watching a classic film from the 1970s, completely mesmerized by the footwear? Maybe you’re putting together a retro outfit for a themed party, or perhaps you just love the idea of adding a touch of that groovy, free-spirited energy to your modern wardrobe. The problem is, when you try to find “70s shoes” online, you’re bombarded with cheap costume pieces or confusing trends that don’t quite capture the real essence of the decade. It can feel overwhelming to separate the authentic, wearable styles from the fleeting fads. But here’s the good news: the 1970s were a golden era for women’s footwear, offering a surprisingly versatile mix of comfort, boldness, and practicality that still feels fresh today. Let’s break down exactly what women were wearing on their feet back then, so you can pick the perfect pair for your own style.

The Big Picture: Two Worlds Collide

To understand 70s shoes, you first have to understand the two major vibes that defined the decade. On one side, you had the earthy, natural, and bohemian movement—think folk music, outdoor festivals, and a return to craftsmanship. This gave us chunky heels, natural materials, and a “grounded” look. On the other side, you had the glam rock and disco explosion—think glitter, platforms, and pure, unapologetic glamour. This gave us sky-high heels, metallic finishes, and shoes meant to be seen on a dance floor under a mirrorball. The beauty of the 70s is that women didn’t just pick one lane; they often had both pairs in their closet, switching between a cozy suede boot for a daytime hike and a strappy metallic sandal for a night out. This duality is the core principle behind the decade’s most iconic footwear.

The Platform: The Undisputed King (and Queen) of the 70s

If there’s one shoe that screams “1970s,” it’s the platform. This wasn’t just a heel; it was a statement. The platform sole—a thick layer of wood, cork, rubber, or synthetic material under the entire foot—elevated women literally and figuratively. The genius of the platform is that it offered height without the extreme angle of a stiletto. You could be four or five inches taller, but your foot was still relatively flat, making them surprisingly walkable (for a heel, anyway). They came in every form imaginable: platform sandals with ankle straps, platform clogs with a wooden sole, platform sneakers, and even platform boots that reached the knee. The materials were often bold: cork was a favorite for its natural, earthy feel, while patent leather and metallic vinyl screamed disco. When choosing a platform today, look for a wedge or a block heel made from wood or cork for that authentic 70s look. A simple suede or leather upper with a chunky platform is a timeless investment.

Boots: From Ankle to Thigh, All Day Long

Boots were absolutely everywhere in the 70s, and they were far from the sleek, pointed styles of the 60s. The 70s boot was bold, often with a rounded or slightly square toe and a chunky heel. The most iconic style was the go-go boot, but by the 70s, it had evolved into something more substantial. Think knee-high boots in smooth or textured leather, often with a low block heel or a flat sole. But the real star was the boot that went even higher. Over-the-knee boots and thigh-high boots were a major trend, especially in the early part of the decade. They were often worn with mini skirts or hot pants, creating a look that was both sexy and powerful. For a more casual, everyday vibe, the ankle boot was a staple. A simple leather or suede ankle boot with a stacked heel paired perfectly with flared jeans or a midi skirt. When shopping for vintage-inspired boots today, focus on the heel shape—a chunky, wooden-looking block heel is your best friend. Avoid overly skinny or stiletto heels if you want that authentic 70s feel.

Sandals: Barefoot Freedom, Elevated

The 70s also perfected the art of the sandal. This was the decade of the “barely there” look, but with a twist. The most famous 70s sandal is probably the gladiator sandal, but not the flat, Roman-style ones you see today. The 70s gladiator was often a platform sandal with multiple straps that crisscrossed up the ankle or even the calf. They were bold, sculptural, and could be dressed up or down. Then there was the espadrille, a classic wedge sandal made with a jute rope sole and a canvas upper. This was the ultimate casual, summer shoe, perfect for beach days or weekend markets. And let’s not forget the simple slide sandal—a flat or low-heeled sandal with a single wide strap across the top. These were often made in bright colors or with wooden beads and shells for a boho touch. The key to a good 70s sandal is the sole. Look for a wedge or a platform, and don’t be afraid of natural materials like jute, cork, or wood. A metallic finish, like gold or silver leather, is also a dead giveaway for the disco era.

The Disco Shoe: Strappy, Sparkly, and Sky-High

We can’t talk about 70s shoes without giving a special shout-out to the disco shoe. When the sun went down and the music started, women slipped into something far more glamorous. The disco shoe was all about the heel—a stiletto or a slim, curved heel that was often three to four inches high. The upper was usually a strappy sandal, with thin, delicate straps that wrapped around the ankle and sometimes even the toes. The materials were pure indulgence: metallic leathers (gold, silver, bronze), patent leather in bold jewel tones, or even clear PVC (often called “jelly” shoes, though those peaked a bit later). The goal was to catch the light and make your feet look as glamorous as your sequined dress. If you want to channel this vibe today, go for a strappy sandal with a thin, high heel and a metallic finish. Keep the rest of your outfit simple to let the shoes do the talking.

Practical Tips for Buying 70s-Inspired Shoes Today

So, you’re ready to add some 70s flair to your shoe collection. Here’s how to do it without looking like you’re wearing a costume.

  • Start with one statement piece. Don’t go full disco from head to toe. A pair of chunky platform sandals or knee-high boots can instantly elevate a simple modern outfit of jeans and a t-shirt.
  • Prioritize comfort. The beauty of 70s shoes is that they were often more comfortable than what came before or after. Look for block heels, wedges, and platforms. Your feet will thank you.
  • Embrace natural textures. Suede, leather, cork, and wood are your go-to materials. They add an organic, authentic feel that synthetic materials just can’t replicate.
  • Don’t forget the color. While brown and tan were staples, the 70s were also a time of bold color. Think mustard yellow, burnt orange, olive green, and deep burgundy. A pop of color on your feet can be a fun, subtle nod to the decade.
  • Check the toe shape. The 70s loved a rounded or slightly square toe. Pointy toes were more of a 60s thing. A rounder toe gives that softer, more relaxed 70s silhouette.
  • Consider the heel height. You don’t need to be towering. A 1.5 to 2.5-inch block heel or wedge is very authentic and much easier to walk in than a 4-inch stiletto.

Whether you’re channeling the earthy boho of a folk festival or the glittering energy of Studio 54, the shoes of the 1970s offer a treasure trove of inspiration. They were bold, they were fun, and they were surprisingly practical. So go ahead, step into a pair of platform sandals or lace up some knee-high boots. You’ll be surprised at how effortlessly they fit into your life today.