How to Dress for a Retro 1970s Flight Experience

Part of the fun of a retro flight experience happens before you ever reach the check-in counter: deciding what to wear. In the golden age of air travel, a flight was an occasion, and passengers dressed for it the way they might dress for a nice dinner or the theater. If you are heading to a 1970s-style evening like the Pan Am Experience in Los Angeles, here is a practical guide to dressing the part, whether you want a full period look or just something smart and comfortable.

Why people dressed up to fly

For much of the 1960s and 1970s, flying was expensive and relatively rare, so a trip on a jet felt like an event. Travelers often wore suits, ties, dresses and polished shoes, and the cabin crew’s uniforms were designed to look just as glamorous. The meal service matched the mood: in the front cabins, dinner arrived in courses on real china with glassware and linen.

That sense of occasion is exactly what a retro flight experience recreates. On our recreated Boeing 747, guests check in, enjoy cocktails, sit through the classic safety demonstration and then settle in for a multi-course dinner served by a crew in vintage-style uniforms. Dressing up is simply part of stepping into that world.

The quick answer: think cocktail attire

If you only remember one thing, make it this: dress as if you were going to a nice dinner party, then add a little 1970s flavor if you like. Guests are encouraged to dress the part, so plan to leave jeans, sneakers and T-shirts at home. A full costume is not required; a smart outfit with one or two period touches looks great in photos and feels right in the cabin.

1970s style ideas for women

The 1970s offered a wide range of looks, from polished jet-set chic to relaxed bohemian glamour. A few easy directions:

• The wrap or shirt dress. A knee- or midi-length dress with a defined waist is one of the most recognizable silhouettes of the decade, and it is comfortable for an evening of sitting and dining.
• A tailored skirt suit. A fitted jacket and matching skirt, perhaps with a silk scarf at the neck, nods to the polished look of travelers and stewardesses of the era.
• Wide-leg trousers and a blouse. High-waisted, flared or wide-leg pants with a pussy-bow or printed blouse are elegant and very 1970s.
• Accessories that do the talking. Oversized sunglasses, a structured handbag, a headscarf, gold jewelry or a small vintage travel bag can turn a simple outfit into a period look.

1970s style ideas for men

• A suit with character. Wider lapels, a slightly flared trouser and a bold tie instantly read as 1970s. A classic dark suit with a patterned tie works just as well.
• Blazer and turtleneck. A sport coat over a fine-knit turtleneck is a relaxed but sharp jet-age look.
• Colors and textures. Earthy shades such as brown, rust, camel and mustard, plus corduroy, suede or a subtle check, all fit the decade.
• Finishing touches. Polished loafers or dress shoes, a pocket square, aviator-style sunglasses for the arrival photo and perhaps a vintage watch.

Colors, prints and fabrics of the decade

If you are building an outfit from what is already in your closet, color is the easiest way to signal the era. The 1970s palette leaned warm and earthy: burnt orange, mustard yellow, olive and avocado green, chocolate brown and cream. Bold geometric prints, florals and stripes were everywhere. Fabrics ranged from knits and polyester to suede and corduroy. Pair one statement piece, such as a printed shirt or a bright scarf, with simpler basics so the look stays elegant rather than costume-like.

Practical tips for a comfortable evening

A retro flight experience is a long, relaxed evening of cocktails, conversation and dinner, so comfort matters as much as style.

• Choose shoes you can walk in. You will check in, mingle in the lounge and board the aircraft, and the 747 has a staircase to the upper deck. Block heels, low pumps or smart flats are kinder than stilettos.
• Dress for sitting and dining. You will be seated for several courses, so pick fabrics that do not wrinkle easily and waistbands with a little give.
• Bring a light layer. A wrap, cardigan or blazer lets you adjust to the temperature indoors.
• Keep bags small. A compact handbag or vintage-style clutch is easier to manage at your seat than a large tote.
• Think about the photos. Guests love taking pictures in the cabin and lounge, so a pop of color or a bold accessory helps you stand out. You can browse our photo gallery for inspiration.

Dressing for groups and private events

If you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary or company milestone on board, a shared dress code makes the night even more memorable. Some ideas for private events aboard the 747:

• Jet-set cocktail party: everyone in cocktail attire with one 1970s accessory.
• Color theme: ask guests to wear one shade from the decade’s palette, such as burnt orange or mustard, for striking group photos.
• Destination night: each guest dresses as if heading to a different glamorous destination of the era.

Mention the dress code on your invitation so everyone has time to plan. Half the fun is seeing what your friends or colleagues come up with.

Where to find 1970s pieces

You do not need to spend much. Vintage and thrift stores, consignment shops and online secondhand marketplaces are full of 1970s blouses, ties, blazers and dresses. Many modern brands also make 1970s-inspired designs with wide lapels, flared trousers and retro prints. Raid the closets of parents or grandparents, too: an old scarf, tie or piece of jewelry can be the perfect finishing touch and a great conversation starter on board.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a dress code for the Pan Am Experience?

Guests are encouraged to dress up, much like passengers did in the 1970s. Cocktail attire or a period-inspired outfit is ideal; please avoid jeans, sneakers and T-shirts.

Do I need to wear a full 1970s costume?

No. A smart, dressy outfit is perfect. Adding a period touch, such as a silk scarf, a wide tie or a bold print, is a fun option rather than a requirement.

What shoes should I wear?

Choose comfortable dress shoes you can walk and stand in. You will move between the check-in area, the lounge and the aircraft, which has a staircase to the upper deck.

Where is the Pan Am Experience?

At Air Hollywood, 27615 Avenue Hopkins, Valencia, CA 91355, in the Los Angeles area. For more details, see our frequently asked questions.

Ready for takeoff?

Once your outfit is sorted, all that is left is choosing your seat. Check Pan Am Experience flight dates and tickets, or if you are planning a celebration, inquire about a private event. Looking for more ideas for a special evening? Read our guide to unique date night ideas in Los Angeles.