The early '70s perpetuated the lazy-daisy attitudes that blossomed in the '60s, while the latter part of the decade celebrated glittering disco clubs and tight leisure suits. Politics, anti-war sentiments and the continued persistence of the peace sign signified the '70s.
Decorate in '70s-inspired earth tones colors such as orange, yellow, brown and definitely the ever-addictive split-pea-green. Hang beaded curtains to add a little extra color and flair. Also be sure to have plenty of incense burning to really create a '70s atmosphere (something earthy like sandalwood or patchouli will make it feel authentic). As homage to the advent of the disco era, set up a rotating mirror ball that instantly turns any party into a dance party. Luckily, tabletop mirror balls are easy to find, so you won’t have to worry about installing it into your ceiling.
The best way to construct your ‘70s costume is to ransack consignment stores. Here are come classic clothing and accessory ideas:
• Funky with an intellectual edge. Wire-rimmed glasses a la John Lennon, snug jeans, bright green Converse, and Farrah’s famed feathers. • Orange and brown track jackets, pastel-inspired sneakers and zippers galore. • Bowling shirts and white, cotton snug-fitting pants – think John Travolta. • Pay tribute to iconic film and TV characters from Star Wars, The Godfather, Happy Days and Sesame Street. • Go Richard Nixon-style. Bushy eyebrows, anyone? Perfectly paired with a light brown leisure suit. • Teensy mini-skirts with platform shoes and short shorts with white athletic knee-highs. • Low-lying pigtails or the bizarre, albeit appealing to the masses, side ponytail pays tribute to Suzanne Somers’ Chrissy in Three’s Company. |
The Pet Rock was one of the biggest pop culture fads of the '70s. Have guests create their own pet rocks. This fun activity requires a few colors of tempra paint, some paintbrushes and clean, smooth river rocks. Your guests can also decorate their rocks with familiar '70s icons like smiley faces, vibrant flowers and ladybugs.
The '70s was synonymous with disco dancing. Section off an area that guests can use as a dance floor. Make sure to play disco-era artists like ABBA, Donna Summer and The Village People. Add some bright flashing lights and a fog machine to give your dance floor a Studio 54 feel. For added inspiration, set up a TV in the background, and cue up some of the famous dancing scenes in movies like Saturday Night Fever and Fame.
Fondue reached new heights in the '70s and is a fun food idea for your theme party. Select a cheese that melts easily for your fondue. Swiss is always a favorite, but if you prefer something slightly sharper and nuttier, try Gruyere. Serve with slices of crisp bread like a baguette or ciabatta, which are perfect fondue accompaniments for their crunchy crusts and light, airy centers. Crudités and chunks of ham and turkey are also great for dipping and make your fondue into something more of a meal. Don’t worry if you don’t have extra fondue forks – just buy some wooden skewers and place them in a cup near your fondue pot.
The fondue theme can carry right into dessert with a sizzling pot of melted chocolate — dark, milk or white chocolate all work well. Serve with strawberries, raspberries, apple slices, cookies and some chunks of challah or pound cake.
Featured '70s Party Recipes from Epicurious.com
Pineapple Sunshine (serves 6)
• 12 oz pineapple juice
• 12 oz orange juice
• 12 oz sweet and sour mix
Combine all ingredients in a blender. Fill glasses with ice and pour drink over. Garnish each glass with a pineapple wedge. |  |
| 1. | We Are Family / Sister Sledge
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| 2. | The Hustle / Van McCoy |
| 3. | My Sharona / The Knack |
| 4. | Bennie and the Jets / Elton John |
| 5. | Dancing Queen / ABBA |
| 6. | That's the Way (I Like It) / KC & the Sunshine Band |
| 7. | Free Ride / The Edger Winter Group |
| 8. | Superstition / Stevie Wonder |
| 9. | Stayin' Alive / The Bee Gees |
| 10. | The Loco-Motion / Grand Funk |
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