Cher In The 70s: How The Goddess Of Pop Redefined Television & Fashion

When we talk about the 1970s, certain images immediately spring to mind: disco balls, bell-bottoms, and a revolutionary spirit. But arguably, no single figure embodied the decade's audacious glamour and groundbreaking entertainment quite like Cher. Long before she believed in life after love, Cherilyn Sarkisian, known simply as Cher, was already a force of nature, captivating millions with her unique blend of humor, music, and an unparalleled sense of style. The 1970s weren't just a decade for Cher; they were the crucible in which she forged her iconic status as a global superstar and an undisputed fashion trailblazer.

Here, we take a nostalgic trip through Cher's style journey through the 1970s, exploring some of her most influential looks that defined the decade, and revisit the television reign that made her a household name. Get ready to browse through the dazzling imagery of a true legend, as there are over 2,500 Cher 1970s photos and images available that perfectly capture her essence.

The Reign of a TV Star: From Variety Shows to Solo Spotlight

The 1970s saw Cher transition from a folk-rock duo sensation with Sonny Bono to a bona fide television superstar. Their comedic chemistry and musical talent found the perfect platform in The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour. This show, which premiered on CBS, was an instant hit, attracting an astonishing audience of over 30 million weekly viewers. It was a phenomenon, bringing variety show entertainment to the masses with a fresh, irreverent twist that only Sonny and Cher could deliver. Their witty banter, musical performances, and hilarious skits made them a must-watch for families across America.

After the duo parted ways, Cher proved her undeniable star power by launching her solo show, simply titled Cher, also on CBS. This venture solidified her standing as a singular entertainer. The solo show continued to draw massive audiences, a testament to her charisma and versatility. She gained critical acclaim for her performances, her ability to command the stage, and her willingness to push boundaries in an era that was still somewhat conservative. Her television presence wasn't just about entertainment; it was about showcasing a personality that was authentic, daring, and utterly captivating. These shows weren't just popular; they were cultural touchstones, defining Sunday nights for millions and cementing Cher's place in television history.

The Fashion Revolution: Cher's Unrivaled 70s Style

While her television shows brought her into millions of homes, it was Cher's groundbreaking fashion that truly cemented her status as an icon. Over the last six decades, the raven-haired Goddess of Pop, Cher, remains an unequivocal fashion trailblazer. The 1970s were arguably the pinnacle of her sartorial daring, a decade where she single-handedly redefined what "glam" meant. While the rest of the world was figuring out bell-bottoms and tie-dye, Cher was already light-years ahead, pushing the envelope with looks that were provocative, artistic, and unforgettable.

Bob Mackie: The Mastermind Behind the Magic

Much of Cher's iconic 70s fashion can be attributed to her legendary collaboration with designer Bob Mackie. Their partnership was a match made in fashion heaven, with Mackie translating Cher's audacious spirit into breathtaking garments. He understood her body, her persona, and her desire to shock and awe. The dazzling rhinestones, the daring cuts, and the sheer audacity of her outfits were often the brainchild of Mackie, brought to life with Cher's unparalleled confidence and stage presence. These Bob Mackie looks still inspire today’s vintage fashion trends, proving their timeless appeal.

Iconic Elements of Cher's 70s Style

Cher's 70s wardrobe was a masterclass in theatricality and unapologetic self-expression. She wasn't just wearing clothes; she was making statements. Her style evolved over the course of several decades, from the 1960s, through the ‘70s and more decades to her present-day fashion choices, but the 70s truly saw her come into her own as a fashion force. Here are some of the defining elements of her revolutionary 70s looks:

Sheer Gowns: Cher was one of the first to truly embrace the "naked dress," often adorned with strategically placed embellishments. These sheer gowns were scandalous yet undeniably elegant, showcasing her incredible physique and fearless attitude.
Glitter-Drenched Jumpsuits: From head-to-toe sparkle to intricate embroidery, her jumpsuits were anything but casual. They were designed for performance, catching the light and dazzling audiences with every move.
Dazzling Rhinestones and Sequins: No Cher outfit was complete without an abundance of sparkle. Rhinestones and sequins were not just accents; they were integral to the fabric of her garments, turning her into a walking, shimmering spectacle.
Daring Cuts and Silhouettes: High slits, plunging necklines, and form-fitting bodysuits were staples. She wasn't afraid to show skin or embrace silhouettes that accentuated her long, lean figure.
The Bodysuit: Behold the bodysuit! Cher popularized this daring garment, often embellished and worn with incredible confidence, making it a symbol of her bold and modern style.
Exaggerated Nails: Her long, often embellished nails were an extension of her glamorous persona, adding another layer of theatricality to her overall look.
Windswept Hair: Her signature long, dark hair, often styled with volume and a windswept effect, became as iconic as her outfits, framing her striking features perfectly.

Basically, Cher is everything, and these photos of her fashion sense in the 70s (and basically anytime before she believed in life after love) prove just that. She wasn't just following trends; she was creating them, inspiring countless designers and fashion enthusiasts for decades to come.

Cher's Enduring Legacy

Looking back at Cher’s best outfits and fashion choices of all time, from the 1960s to present day, it's clear that the 1970s were a pivotal period. It was the decade where she truly blossomed into the multifaceted superstar we know today – a powerful vocalist, a captivating performer, and an unparalleled fashion icon. Her influence extends far beyond the stage and screen; she broke barriers, challenged norms, and inspired generations to embrace their individuality.

On her 79th birthday, Cher shows no signs of slowing down. Born Cherilyn Sarkisian on May 20th, she continues to perform, act, and make her presence felt in the cultural landscape. Her 70s style, with its audacious glamour and fearless self-expression, remains a powerful testament to her enduring impact. She taught us that fashion is not just about clothes, but about attitude, confidence, and the courage to be unapologetically yourself.

In summary, Cher's 1970s era was a phenomenal period of growth and iconic definition. She rose to unprecedented television stardom with The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour and her solo show Cher, captivating over 30 million weekly viewers and earning critical acclaim. Simultaneously, she revolutionized fashion, becoming an undisputed trailblazer with her daring Bob Mackie creations, including sheer gowns, glitter-drenched jumpsuits, dazzling rhinestones, and the iconic bodysuit, all while setting trends with her signature nails and windswept hair. Her audacious style and fearless self-expression from this decade continue to inspire and solidify her status as a timeless Goddess of Pop.