It was a decade of disco balls, platform shoes, and, of course, outrageously fun costumes. Of course, we’re talking about the 1970s, an era of iconic characters, far-out fads, and enough DIY magic to make your costume the envy of the block. As we look back at some of the decade’s most memorable looks, you might be surprised to disover that some of these 1970s Halloween costumes are still trendy today:

Farrah Fawcett Mane Magic

Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hairstyle wasn’t just a style choice but a cultural phenomenon. Halloween provided the perfect excuse to go all out with this iconic look. Think big, voluminous waves teased to perfection, ideally paired with a swimsuit and a sarong for a touch of California beach vibes.

Stormtrooper Invasion

The release of Star Wars in 1977 was a pop-culture supernova, and Halloween costumes rode the wave. Kids (and some daring adults!) donned white plastic stormtrooper armor, complete with helmets that masked their identities. These costumes were a symbol of the film’s futuristic world and the immense allure of space exploration.

Kung Fu Fury

Bruce Lee’s martial arts films took the world by storm in the 1970s, inspiring a generation of wannabe kung fu masters. Halloween costumes mirrored this craze. Kids sported black gi uniforms, belts tied around their waists, and (with varying degrees of success) mimicked nunchuck skills they’d picked up from movie marathons.

Sonny and Cher Couples Act

This iconic couple was known for their flamboyant style and musical chemistry, making them a perfect choice for a playful couple’s costume. Sonny could channel his signature look with a sharp tuxedo and slicked-back hair, while Cher could unleash her inner fashionista in a fringed minidress, go-go boots, and a bold-colored wig.

Disco Dazzler

Forget the everyday closet – Halloween in the 1970s was all about outrageous fashion. The disco dazzler embodied this perfectly. Imagine shimmering jumpsuits in every color imaginable, platform shoes that defied gravity, and enough sequins to create a disco ball explosion. Wide headbands, feathery boas, and mountains of glitter completed this look, ensuring you’d be the most luminous life of the party.

Rubik’s Cube Enigma

This seemingly simple puzzle toy became a global obsession in the late 1970s. Crafty costume enthusiasts brought the cube to life with giant cardboard boxes painted in the signature six colors. Worn on their heads or carried as oversized props, these costumes were instantly recognizable to anyone who’d spent hours trying to solve the colorful puzzle.

CB Radio Chatterbox

Citizen Band radios were all the rage in the 1970s, allowing people to connect and form communities over long distances. For a unique costume idea, kids might craft a cardboard replica of a CB radio complete with antennas and knobs. Trucker hats or clothes decorated with CB slang phrases like “10-4” (meaning “understood”) added extra authenticity.

The Pet Rock Paradox

Remember these? Pet Rocks, smooth stones marketed as low-maintenance companions, were a novelty item in 1975. The concept’s absurdity made them a pop culture punchline and, of course, a Halloween costume inspiration. Kids might carry a painted rock or wear a name tag, declaring themselves the proud owner of a “pet rock.”

Greased Up T-Birds

The 1978 film Grease captivated teenagers and ignited a fascination with the 1950s greaser style. For a cool group costume, a bunch of friends could slick back their hair, don leather jackets, and embody their inner Danny Zuko or Kenickie. Pink ladies could join in the fun, sporting poodle skirts and bobby socks for a complete tribute to the film’s iconic greaser and pink lady dynamic.

Astronaut Adventure

The dream of space exploration remained vibrant in the 1970s. Kids who gazed up at the stars might dress up as astronauts, complete with silver jumpsuits, toy space helmets, and perhaps even a cardboard rocket strapped to their backs. This costume celebrated scientific discovery and the endless possibilities of space travel.

Bohemian Rhapsody

The hippie movement of the 1960s continued to influence fashion in the 1970s. A “bohemian” costume captured this free-spirited vibe. Think flowing tie-dye shirts in psychedelic colors, bell-bottom jeans that flared dramatically, headbands adorned with peace signs, and maybe even a toy guitar slung across the back for a touch of artistic flair. This look was all about embracing a carefree, nonconformist attitude and celebrating self-expression.

The Super Friends

This iconic superhero group was a mainstay on Saturday morning cartoons throughout the 1970s. Kids dressing up as their favorite heroes like Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, and Aquaman were a common sight. These costumes, often made from pajamas or brightly colored clothing with makeshift capes and masks, showcased the enduring appeal of superheroes and the power of imagination.

Debt is a frequent unwelcome visitor of the holiday season that frequently remains after the lights go out and the New Year’s confetti falls. Unbelievably, 25% of Americans are still struggling with debt from holidays in 2022—a financial hangover no one wants to celebrate. Don’t worry, though—this year could be unique. This blog will explore tips to avoid holiday debt in 2023. 

Accept Digital Gifting

Consider opting for digital or subscription-based gifts, such as streaming service memberships, online course enrollments, or e-book acquisitions. These options are convenient for last-minute gifting and often more affordable than physical items. Digital gifts provide immediate delivery and various choices to suit any interest.

Workshops on Handmade Gifts

Consider hosting or attending DIY gift-making workshops in your area. These sessions can empower you with skills to craft cost-effective personalized gifts that enhance mindfulness. Engaging in the art of handmade presents offers a meaningful and thoughtful touch to your gifting.

Make Use of Reward and Cashback Programs

Leverage reward and cashback programs by utilizing credit cards offering points or cashback for year-round purchases. Allocate these rewards exclusively for Christmas shopping, transforming regular spending into a secret holiday savings strategy. This approach enables you to accumulate savings for the festive season effortlessly without altering your usual spending habits.

Create a Club for Holiday Savings

Why put off thinking about Christmas spending until December? Create a Holiday Savings Club with your loved ones. Like the old-fashioned Christmas Clubs of yesteryear, each member contributes weekly or monthly. When the holidays arrive, you’ll have savings for celebratory expenditures.

Organize a “Pre-Holiday” Yard Sale

Plan a “Pre-Holiday” Yard Sale to declutter and financially prepare for the festive season. You achieve dual benefits by selling items no longer needed: creating a more spacious, organized home and accumulating extra funds to enrich your holiday spending. This method presents a prudent financial move, ensuring you enter the holidays with a tidier space and a healthier wallet, embodying sustainability and smart planning.

Have a Unique Gift Exchange Idea

Each year, innovate your gift exchange by proposing unique themes like “Handmade Only,” “Thrift Store Finds,” or “Books Only.” This approach injects creativity into the tradition and often reduces financial pressure, making the exchange more about thoughtfulness and less about cost.

Reevaluate Your Holiday Customs

Discuss the idea of rethinking your holiday traditions with your loved ones. Consider shifting the focus from giving gifts to sharing experiences or performing acts of kindness. This change in perspective could lead to holidays that are not only less financially burdensome but also more fulfilling and meaningful.

Get Extra Money for the Holidays by Starting a Side Business

Boost your holiday budget by launching a side business based on your skills or hobbies. Whether graphic design, crafting, or freelance writing, tapping into your talents can provide extra funds for holiday spending. This strategy enhances your financial flexibility during the festive season and allows you to pursue passions that could turn into profitable ventures.

Accept the ‘Gift of Presence’ Idea

Why not place more emphasis on “presence” than “presents” in a society that is fixated on material presents? Rather than buying gaudy things, think about donating your time and expertise. A handcrafted picture album, a customized cooking lesson, or a commitment to assist with a DIY project might hold far greater significance than any item purchased from the shop.

Leverage Technology for Budgeting and Savings

Utilize technology to manage your holiday finances effectively. Budgeting apps help monitor spending, ensuring you stay within your holiday budget. Savings apps, meanwhile, automate saving small amounts over time, creating a fund specifically for holiday expenses. Additionally, price comparison tools ensure you get the best deals, making your money go further without sacrificing the quality of your gifts.

Embrace Community and Shared Experiences

The essence of the holiday season is found in community and shared experiences, not extravagant gifts. Engage in community events, which often are low-cost but rich in spirit, offering enjoyment for everyone. Alternatively, consider giving your time or skills as gifts, such as offering personalized lessons or assistance. These gifts of experience strengthen relationships and create lasting memories, all while keeping your budget intact.