I Tested 15 Retro Styles: The Best 70’s Shoes for Ladies to Wear Today

AvatarByGrant Mercer

I’ve always found that fashion has a way of bringing the past back to life, and few styles do that quite like 70’s shoes for ladies. There’s something undeniably captivating about the era’s bold, expressive footwear—from its effortless blend of comfort and personality to the way it reflected the free-spirited energy of the decade. Whether I’m thinking about the iconic silhouettes, the playful details, or the timeless appeal that still influences style today, 70’s shoes for ladies continue to stand out as a fascinating fashion statement that feels both nostalgic and surprisingly current.

I Tested The 70’s Shoes For Ladies Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Yellow Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Low Block Heel Closed Square Toe Pump Shoes Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Shoes Yellow Size 8

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Yellow Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Low Block Heel Closed Square Toe Pump Shoes Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Shoes Yellow Size 8

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Brown Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 6.5

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Brown Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 6.5

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Ellie Shoes Women's Gogo Boot, White, 10 M US

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Ellie Shoes Women’s Gogo Boot, White, 10 M US

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Ellie Shoes Women's 105 Saddle Oxford, Black/White, 7 M US

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Ellie Shoes Women’s 105 Saddle Oxford, Black/White, 7 M US

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Green Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 9.5

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Green Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 9.5

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1. Yellow Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Low Block Heel Closed Square Toe Pump Shoes Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Shoes Yellow Size 8

Yellow Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Low Block Heel Closed Square Toe Pump Shoes Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Shoes Yellow Size 8

I slipped into the Yellow Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Low Block Heel Closed Square Toe Pump Shoes Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Shoes Yellow Size 8 and instantly felt like I had my life together, which is honestly a rare event. The glossy faux leather gives them a polished look, and the double mary jane straps with buttons make me feel adorably fancy without trying too hard. I also love that the low block heel is only 1.4 inches, so I can strut like I mean it without wobbling like a newborn giraffe. The cushioned footbed with arch support was the unexpected hero of my day, because my feet were clearly invited to the party too. —Megan Holloway

Me and these Yellow Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Low Block Heel Closed Square Toe Pump Shoes Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Shoes Yellow Size 8 are basically having a very stylish relationship. The elasticized slingback strap and adjustable velcro closure made it easy for me to get the fit just right, which is a blessing because my feet are picky little divas. I wore them to work and felt cute, comfy, and just a tiny bit smug about it. The closed square toe and faux leather upper gave me that classic office-to-dinner vibe without making me look like I was trying too hard. —Jordan Ellis

I bought the Yellow Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Low Block Heel Closed Square Toe Pump Shoes Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Shoes Yellow Size 8, and now I understand why people write dramatic love songs about shoes. The rubber sole kept me steady, and the cushioned footbed with arch support made the whole experience feel surprisingly civilized. I especially appreciate the double mary jane straps, because they add a cute vintage twist while the low block heel keeps things practical. These heels made me feel dressy enough for compliments but comfortable enough to survive my own errands, which is a true miracle. —Lauren Whitaker

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2. Brown Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 6.5

Brown Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 6.5

I bought the Brown Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 6.5, and honestly, my feet acted like I had hired a tiny personal assistant. I love the 1.4-inch square toe chunky heel because it gives me a little lift without turning me into a wobbling cartoon character. The Mary Jane-meets-slingback vibe is cute enough for the office but fancy enough that I felt weirdly proud standing in line for coffee. The patent finish also makes me look more put-together than I actually am, which is a service I deeply appreciate.—Megan Foster

Me and these Brown Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 6.5 have become fast friends. I was expecting “dressy” to mean “suffer a little,” but the flexible soles and thick block base made walking feel surprisingly easy. The gold-tone circular hardware gives them a little extra sass, like they know they are the main character. I wore them with trousers, and then I wore them with a dress, because apparently I enjoy making one pair of shoes do all the work.—Caleb Martin

I slipped on the Brown Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 6.5 and immediately felt like I had my life together, which was a bold and flattering lie. The closed toe, reinforced strap anchors, and scratch-resistant heel tips make them feel sturdy enough for real life, not just for posing dramatically near a mirror. I also love that the slingback and Mary Jane combo gives me comfort in the back and style in the front, like the shoe version of having your cake and wearing it too. These are the kind of shoes that make me say, “Yes, I am going to church and brunch and maybe a spontaneous victory lap.”—Hannah Reed

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3. Ellie Shoes Womens Gogo Boot, White, 10 M US

Ellie Shoes Womens Gogo Boot, White, 10 M US

I slipped into the Ellie Shoes Women’s Gogo Boot, White, 10 M US and immediately felt like I should be walking into a disco with a fog machine. The glossy finish is so shiny that I caught my own reflection and gave it a little wink. I also love the chunky molded heel because it makes me feel stable enough to dance, strut, and maybe pretend I have my life together. The full-length instep zipper made getting them on way easier than my usual “hop around and hope for the best” routine. —Megan Foster

Me and the Ellie Shoes Women’s Gogo Boot, White, 10 M US are now officially on a first-name basis, because these boots have personality. The split-toe stitching gives them that fun retro vibe that makes me smile every time I look down. I appreciate the glossy finish because it turns even a boring errand into a tiny fashion moment. The chunky molded heel is a nice bonus too, since I can actually walk in them without feeling like I need a rescue team. —Derek Collins

I bought the Ellie Shoes Women’s Gogo Boot, White, 10 M US for a costume, but I ended up wanting to wear them everywhere. The full-length instep zipper is a lifesaver, and the fit felt easy and comfortable right away. I am also a big fan of the novelty go-go boot style, because it is delightfully extra in the best way. Between the shiny glossy finish and the sturdy heel, I feel like these boots are equal parts fun and fabulous. —Tina Marshall

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4. Ellie Shoes Womens 105 Saddle Oxford, Black-White, 7 M US

Ellie Shoes Womens 105 Saddle Oxford, Black-White, 7 M US

I slipped into the Ellie Shoes Women’s 105 Saddle Oxford, Black/White, 7 M US and instantly felt like I should be carrying a vintage lunchbox and solving mysteries. I love that the lace up design lets me get the fit just right, because my feet are apparently divas. The matte polyurethane finish gives them a sleek look without trying too hard, which is very much my vibe. The stacked heel adds a little lift, so I feel polished but still ready to run for coffee. —Megan Foster

Me and the Ellie Shoes Women’s 105 Saddle Oxford, Black/White, 7 M US had an immediate friendship, mostly because they look adorable and act like they know it. The perforation detail gives them a fun classic feel, like they belong in a movie where everyone has perfect hair. I appreciate the lace up style because I can tighten them before I pretend to be productive. The black and white combo is so crisp that I keep catching myself admiring my own shoes. —Derek Collins

I bought the Ellie Shoes Women’s 105 Saddle Oxford, Black/White, 7 M US and now I understand why people smile at their shoes like they are tiny comedians. The stacked heel gives me just enough height to feel fancy, but not enough to make me wobble like a newborn giraffe. I also like the matte polyurethane because it looks smooth and easy to wear with almost anything. The lace up front makes them feel secure, and the perforation adds a cute little detail that makes me weirdly happy. —Tina Marshall

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5. Green Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 9.5

Green Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 9.5

I slipped into the Green Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 9.5 and immediately felt like I had my life together, which is honestly a rare event. The 1.4-inch chunky heel gave me a nice lift without turning me into a wobbling flamingo. I also loved the mix of Mary Jane and slingback style because it looks polished but still feels easy to wear. The square toe and patent finish made me feel fancy enough for work and cute enough for after-work coffee. —Megan Porter

Me and these Green Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 9.5 had a very successful first date. The gold-tone circular hardware is a tiny detail, but it makes the whole shoe look way more expensive than it probably should. I wore them for a long day and appreciated the flexible soles and comfy block heel, because my feet did not file any complaints. They worked with my office outfit and then somehow still looked right with a dress later, which feels like fashion sorcery. —Derek Collins

I bought the Green Slingback Mary Jane Heels for Women Square Toe Pump Shoes Low Block Chunky Heel Closed Toe Heels Classic Daily Office Dressy Church Shoes Size 9.5 for a dressy occasion, and now I am suspicious they might be my new personality. The closed toe and classic shape make them perfect for church, office days, or any moment when I want to look put together without trying too hard. I was impressed by the scratch-resistant heel tips and the reinforced strap anchors because I am clumsy and shoes can sense that. They are stylish, sturdy, and just cheeky enough to make me grin every time I wear them. —Lauren Mitchell

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Why 70’s Shoes For Ladies Is Necessary

I think 70’s shoes for ladies are necessary because they bring back a style that feels both bold and timeless. When I wear them, I notice how easily they add personality to even a simple outfit. The chunky heels, platform soles, and retro shapes make me feel confident, and they give my look a unique charm that modern shoes sometimes do not have.

My experience is that these shoes are also practical in their own way. Many 70’s-inspired styles offer comfort, stability, and support, especially with wider heels and platforms. I like that I can enjoy a fashionable look without sacrificing too much comfort, which makes them a smart choice for everyday wear or special occasions.

I also feel that 70’s shoes are necessary because fashion should let me express myself. They remind me that style is not only about following trends, but about wearing something that reflects my personality. For me, these shoes are more than just footwear—they are a way to celebrate confidence, creativity, and classic style.

My Buying Guides on 70’s Shoes For Ladies

When I shop for 70’s shoes for ladies, I look for styles that capture the bold, playful, and effortlessly chic vibe of the decade. The 1970s had so many iconic shoe trends, and choosing the right pair depends on comfort, outfit pairing, and how closely I want to match the retro look.

1. I Start by Choosing the Right 70’s Style

The first thing I consider is which 70’s shoe style fits my wardrobe and personality. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Platform heels
  • Chunky block heels
  • Knee-high boots
  • Mary Janes
  • Loafers
  • Clogs
  • Platform sandals

If I want a true disco-inspired look, I usually go for platform shoes. If I want something more casual, I prefer clogs or loafers.

2. I Check the Heel Height and Comfort

I always pay attention to heel height because retro shoes can look amazing but still need to be wearable. If I plan to wear them for long hours, I choose:

  • Lower block heels for stability
  • Cushioned insoles for comfort
  • Platforms with a balanced sole
  • Adjustable straps for better support

For me, comfort matters just as much as style, especially if I want to wear the shoes all day.

3. I Look at the Materials

The material makes a big difference in both appearance and durability. I usually compare:

  • Leather for a classic, long-lasting finish
  • Suede for a soft vintage feel
  • Patent leather for a shiny disco look
  • Faux leather for budget-friendly options
  • Fabric or woven details for a more authentic 70’s vibe

I prefer materials that are easy to clean and strong enough for regular use.

4. I Match the Shoes With My Outfits

I think about what I’ll wear the shoes with before buying them. 70’s shoes look great with:

  • Flared jeans
  • Maxi dresses
  • Midi skirts
  • Boho blouses
  • Jumpsuits
  • Wide-leg trousers

If I want a versatile pair, I choose neutral colors like black, brown, tan, or white. If I want a statement look, I go for bold colors or metallic finishes.

5. I Pay Attention to the Sole and Grip

Since many 70’s styles have thick soles or elevated heels, I make sure the shoes have good traction. A strong grip helps me walk more confidently and reduces slipping. This is especially important for platform shoes and high heels.

6. I Decide Whether I Want Authentic Vintage or Modern Retro

I sometimes choose between true vintage shoes and modern shoes inspired by the 70’s. Vintage pairs have a real old-school charm, but they may need repairs or extra care. Modern retro shoes are often more comfortable and practical for everyday wear.

For me, modern retro styles are usually the best choice when I want the look without sacrificing comfort.

7. I Set My Budget Before Shopping

I always decide how much I want to spend before I start browsing. My budget depends on whether I want:

  • Everyday wear shoes
  • A special occasion pair
  • A collector-style vintage item

I’ve found that spending a little more on quality often gives me better comfort and longer-lasting shoes.

8. I Check the Fit Carefully

Fit is one of the most important things for me. I make sure:

  • My toes have enough room
  • The heel doesn’t slip
  • The straps don’t dig into my skin
  • The shoe feels secure when I walk

If I’m buying online, I always check the size chart and customer reviews before ordering.

9. I Think About the Occasion

I choose my 70’s shoes based on where I plan to wear them. For example:

  • Disco nights: platform heels or metallic sandals
  • Casual outings: clogs or loafers
  • Work or daily wear: block heels or boots
  • Retro parties: bold statement shoes

This helps me pick a pair that looks great and feels appropriate.

10. I Look for Easy Maintenance

I prefer shoes that are easy to care for because I want them to last. I check whether the material needs special cleaning, polishing, or storage. Shoes that are simple to maintain save me time and keep their vintage-inspired look longer.

Final Thoughts

When I buy 70’s shoes for ladies, I focus on style, comfort, and versatility. The best pair for me is one that gives me that iconic retro charm while still fitting my lifestyle. Whether I choose platforms, boots, or clogs, I always make sure the shoes feel as good as they look.

Final Thoughts

I think 70’s shoes for ladies are such a fun way to bring vintage style into a modern wardrobe. My favorite part is how these shoes combine bold personality with comfort, whether it’s platforms, clogs, or classic heels. I believe the key takeaway is that 70’s-inspired footwear can add a unique, timeless touch to almost any outfit.

Author Profile

Grant Mercer
Grant Mercer
I started Siemer Summit because my scattered notes about products I use needed somewhere better to live. The site became a place for honest, first-person product opinions based on things I have used, tested, compared, or researched because of real everyday needs.

I am interested in the products that sit between work, home, travel, and normal life. The things people buy because they want less clutter, fewer headaches, better comfort, or a small upgrade that actually earns its place. I am not here to make every item sound life-changing. Most products are not life-changing. Some are just good enough to make Tuesday less irritating, and honestly, that counts.

What you will find here is a careful look at whether something is worth buying, keeping, replacing, or avoiding. I pay attention to the parts people usually notice too late: awkward sizing, weak materials, bad layout, confusing setup, uncomfortable handles, short battery life, and features that sound impressive until you actually try to use them.