How to Wear Seventies Fashion Without Looking Like You're In Costume

The Yves Saint Laurent + Halston: Fashioning the 70s exhibit opens in NYC today at the FIT museum and it promises to be a goodie. It seems particularly apropos as this era saw a resurgence on the Spring/Summer 2015 runways. As a huge lover of this no-rules-apply decade, you can pretty much colour me excited. Here's how you can rock seventies fashion without looking like an extra in American Hustle.

Summary

· Flared Jeans
· Geometric Prints
· Deep Plunge Halters
· Oversized Shades
· Fringe
· Wrap Dresses
· Crochet
· Platform Sandals
· Need more inspo? Check out these stylish snaps!

What I love most about the '70s is the liberation many women felt when it came to selecting pieces for their wardrobe. It wasn't about trying to fit the mould, but rather, creating their own. If they wanted to wear mini skirts by day and flared pants by night, they did.

With today's overarching style theme being all about embracing your personal taste, designers chose to pull inspiration from this era for their Spring/Summer 2015 collections. From the runways of Gucci to Chloé, everyone had a case of 70s fever.

But here's the tough part. How do you master the trend without looking like you're in costume? Short answer: mix in modern elements.

Check out some of the hottest fashion items from the bygone decade and see more tips on how you can wear 'em today below.

Flared Jeans

For spring try finally ditching those skinny jeans and opt for a more relaxed leg. Look no further than Victoria Beckham for fashion inspiration when it comes to flared jeans. Girlfriend stays and slays in a pair.

Geometric Prints

When opting for prints, think geometric with earth tones. For a modern touch simply add a pair of cool loafers to your outfit and hit the town.

(Bonus points for throwing on a floppy hat.)

Deep Plunge Halters

Okay, one look at Amy Adams in American Hustle and you'll know that this era was all about halters and deep plunging necklines. Of all the trends, this is perhaps the easiest to incorporate into your wardrobe. It gives you an instant pop of glam and sex appeal when you're heading out with the girls.

Expert tip: stock up on double-sided tape.

Oversized Shades

The bigger the sunnies, the better. Also, be sure to aim for a lighter tint in the lenses.

Here Zendaya rocks hers with a lamé Gucci ensemble, but you can aim for a more casual look with a denim jacket and pants.

Fringe

There's something luxe yet casual about fringe pieces that I love. I'm really digging how Olivia Palermo styled hers with a matching fringe bag and rolled up shirt sleeves.

This just oozes cool.

Wrap Dresses

How can anyone say no to the iconic Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress? It was made popular in the '70s and is still worn today by women around the world.

Slip on a pair of ankle strap sandals for an effortlessly refined look.

Crochet

I'm going to say tread lightly with this one, because it's easy to look like a walking doily. But on the plus side, crochet pieces are great for hot summer days at the beach and music festivals.

Platform Sandals

GOODBYE painful stilettos, and hello functional platforms. This is footwear your feet will thank you for. Take style cues from Bey and wear 'em with bold clothing.