Guys were kicking it at the office – and at the disco! – in 70s men’s shoes
Even as the spotlight shone brightly on the flamboyance of 70s men’s platform shoes and the expressive textures that were trending, there remained a diversity in choice that catered to every style and need. (After all, bankers still needed to bank… on traditional fashion fare.)
From the classic charm of loafers and the enduring appeal of rugged dingo boots to the more transient flash of platform shoes and what were just some strange, nameless styles (that mercifully did not have any staying power), 70s men’s shoes offered an abundance of options. For a minute there, semi-high heels as well as white boots were socially acceptable choices.
This nostalgic flashback to the disco decade shows the variety of 70s men’s shoes that left their mark on the world of fashion. So scroll through and and appreciate, if you dare, the unique blend of daring trends and reliable staples that have cemented the 1970s as an unforgettable (and in some cases, notorious!) era in shoe fashion.
The style outlook for men back in 1979
Article from Lancaster Eagle-Gazette (Lancaster, Ohio) – March 22, 1979
Menswear this spring is relaxed, jaunty and unconstructed. Looser blazers, narrowed pants and shorter collars, or no collars at all, will be equally at home in executive suites and discos.
Relaxed styling applies to footwear, too: breezy detailing, soft leathers, brushed nubuck, athletic influences, neutral colors, and the big news, making its way to town from summer-at-the-beach: sandals.
Business is pleasure, the Footwear Council points out, when go-to-work shoes are as elegant, trim and appealing as are those for Spring ’79. The styles feature stitched and punched details; slip-ons sport kiltie accents.
Brown and black pay homage to tradition, but tan, beige and driftwood are the new boardroom colors. These shoes move easily from management conference to disco, the mark of a man whose feet are “firmly planted.”
Vintage 1972 Keds Knockarounds shoes for men
Men’s white shoes with a buckle (1975)
Vintage brown leather Brogues shoes for men (1971)
All-time favorite styles with deeply-grained leather uppers: Wing-tip Oxford, Strap & buckle wingtip, Plain-toe Oxford shoes fo men
Vintage Campus Footgear for guys from Sears (1971)
Vintage Acme/Diego boots for men (1973)
Acme has been the biggest name in western boots for a long time. So, a few years back when we decided the rest of the world was ready for boots, we introduced Dingo fashion boots. Soon Dingo was the most wanted boot in the West, the East, everywhere. Because they make it with today’s high-style clothes. And that goes for imported Dingo Royal Barons, too. Dingos have the look men want. At prices you want to pay.
For authentic western boots, Acme Westerns are still the name of the game. And if you’re ready for custom-made western boots, check out our Dan Post collection. Whichever boot you choose from Acme, you get more than just style and craftsmanship. Our know-how as the world’s biggest bootmaker helps keep us sensibly priced. Because we don’t think you should spend a fortune to look like a million.
DON’T MISS THIS: Vintage shoe stores: See what shoe shopping really used to be like
Vintage JC Penney Ranchcraft western boots for men and boys (1973)
Vintage JC Penney western and cowboy boots (1973)
Vintage Rand Baggie Mocc Slip-On shoes for him (1973)
Stetson brand shoes for men (1972)
Vinatge Jarman Crinkle Patents shoes for men (1972)
Vintage 70s tassel shoes for men from Florsheim (1972)
Retro Sorels shoes and boots for men (1977)
ALSO SEE: Converse vintage shoes: The old-school Chucks, sneakers & athletic footwear
Bostonians Zip-It boots with double zippers (1972)
Casual 1970s men’s shoes (1977)
Casual low boots for guys (1973)
Esquire-Magazine-1972-12 0147
Retro 70s Hush Puppies platform shoes for guys (1972)
You’re looking at a new kind of high. The Hush Puppies high. Lighter. More comfortable. More wearable than anything else arotnd. And if you doubt it, try a pair.
They’re made from Breathin’ Brushed Pigskin. it keeps you cool when it’s warm. Dry when it’s damp. And they come in color combinations that’ll blow your mind. Hush Puppies. A new kind of high. From about $19.
Florsheim Designer Collection men’s shoes (1977)
There’s an individuality about designer clothes that makes you stand out and be noticed. The Florsheim Designer Collection was made expressly for men who are seeking that look for Fall. The superb designs, supple leathers and wealth of hand-detailing are the perfect complement to designer clothes.
And because we’re Florsheim, we make our European-inspired Designer Collection styles in a very un-European wide range of sizes, to assure a perfect fit. But what’s most beautiful about our shoes are their realistic prices. Which means you’ll be noticed for being smart as well as smart-looking.
SHOES FOR HER: Get the retro look! See popular 70s shoes
Hush Puppies shoes for guys (1972)
Does your ego stop at your ankles? …Of course Hush Puppies knows you can’t buy a pair of shoes for every outfit you own. So we’ve come out with styles that goe easily with just about anything. See these new Hush Puppies today. They’ll stretch your ego.
ALSO SEE: How X-ray shoe fittings used to really be a thing years ago
Johnston and Murphy walking shoes for men (1972)
Penney’s Sporty Casual men’s shoes (1973)
Retro cool white crinkle patent shoes for men (1972)
Retro Kinney shoes for men (1974)
Retro patent leather dress shoes for men – Sears (1977)
Retro 70s casual Levi’s shoes for men (1978)
Retro Rand stylish shoes and boots for men (1971)
1973 golf shoes for guys from JC Penney
2-tone and other leather Florsheim shoes for men from 1972
70s Dude Boots by Jarman (1971)
70s Pedwin shoes for him (1973)
1970s dress shoes for guys (1977)
Vintage Pedwin – NFL boot of the years (1971)
Retro 1970s casual shoes for guys (1977)
1977 hiking and workboots for men
Bright and lively casual shoes for guys (1973)
NOW SEE THIS: 80s shoes for men: Footwear that stylish guys were wearing back in the day