A nostalgic look at the ’70s items that quietly screamed wealth.
Back in the 1970s, certain things just screamed status. You didn’t need to say a word; the stereo system, the shag carpet, or the kind of car in the driveway did all the talking. It was a time when material things had meaning. They told you who had made it and who was still trying. So, what exactly set the fancy families apart? Let’s take a ride down memory lane and find out.
Shag Carpeting in Bold Colors
No flooring screamed “we’ve got it” like thick shag carpet in burnt orange or deep brown. Not only was it expensive to install, but it also took commitment to style and maintenance. Rich textures, deep piles, and unusual colors were in vogue. If a kid’s feet sank into shag after school, they probably lived in a home where luxury was part of the daily experience.
Source: Floor Coverings International
Color TVs (Especially in Wood Consoles)
In the ’70s, a color TV wasn’t just a screen, it was a symbol. And if it came in a luxurious wood console, you knew the family was doing well. These weren’t flat screens you could mount on a wall. They were furniture, big and bold, often the centerpiece of a living room. Color television changed family dynamics and became a staple for keeping up with the Joneses.
Source: TVObscurities
Hi-Fi Stereo Systems
A high-fidelity stereo setup, complete with vinyl turntable, receiver, and massive speakers, was pure gold. Fancy families had entire corners of their homes dedicated to these units. They didn’t just listen to music, they experienced it. Owning one showed you had taste, money, and appreciation for quality sound. Bonus points if you had a rack full of Beatles or Earth, Wind & Fire records on display.
Source: Los Angeles Times
Cadillac or Lincoln in the Driveway
In suburban America, if a Cadillac or Lincoln Continental sat in your driveway, your neighbors noticed. These big, flashy vehicles symbolized luxury, success, and often, a corporate job with perks. The size, the shine, the leather interior, all of it sent a clear message. Even if gas prices soared, that car meant you had arrived.
Source: HowStuffWorks
Avocado Green or Harvest Gold Appliances
Oddly enough, kitchen color schemes told a story. Avocado green or harvest gold appliances were expensive upgrades that marked a modern and stylish home. These hues dominated fridges, stoves, and dishwashers. If your kitchen had these trendy tones and matching accessories, you were ahead of the curve and probably entertaining guests with Jell-O molds and fondue.
Source: Nar Realtor
A Full Bar Cart or Sunken Living Room
Stylish homes didn’t just welcome guests, they impressed them. A polished bar cart stocked with name-brand liquor or a sunken living room with plush seating made a big impression. These design features meant the homeowners had been thumbing through interior design magazines and had the cash to replicate the high-end looks.
A Family Pool (or at Least a Club Membership)
Having a pool in the backyard was the pinnacle of ’70s suburban luxury. If that wasn’t doable, a membership at a local country or swim club came close. It wasn’t just about taking a dip, it was about the social scene. Pool ownership meant maintenance costs, real estate value, and bragging rights all rolled into one.
Which of these possessions do you remember or wish you had back then? Share your favorite ’70s status symbol with us in the comments and don’t forget to click that share button so your friends can reminisce with you!
