The rockabilly music came about in the 1940s and 50s when rock blended with honky-tonk country (called hillbilly then). Johnny Cash, Bill Haley, Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley were the big names who brought this new sound to the regular mainstream folk, where they proceeded to go bananas for this hip-swinging brand of tunes.
With music trends so too comes fashion, accessories, make-up and even tattoos. The avant-garde essence of 1950’s rockabilly lives strong in this easily recognisable style, with modern rockabilly trends dusting punk, folk and indie in the mix.
For some, rockabilly is more than an aesthetic; it’s a way of life. But here’s how you can be rockabilly just for the night.
1. Colours and patterns
Start by getting chrome-plated with your palette and patterns. Black, red, white and navy are the bedrock for rockabilly get up.
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Fellas, you can stick to these, or get yourself into some western plaid/checks if you’re feeling peachy keen.
Dames, in addition to the primary colours you will be seen in sailor stripes, punchy polka dots, through to gingham, floral and leopard print fabrics.
2. The right threads
Chicks
Whether it’s a casual party or full glam affair, put your classy chassis into a high waisted pencil skirt,
form-fitting wiggle dress, or capri pants(cropped trousers) paired with a short sleeved blouse or halter top. Waistlines are cinched into swing skirts and dresses, with capped sleeves or halter neck. Pop a block colour cardigan (buttons done up) over the top.
Daddy-Os
The jacket does maketh the rockabilly man. Whether making a statement with a leather biker or donning trusty denim, you’ll be cookin’ if it’s distressed for a worn-in look. Throw on a pair of straight leg jeans with the cuffs rolled up, tuck in a basic white t-shirt, a bowling shirt or western/checked shirt.
3. Do-wap your ‘do right
Betties
An elaborate ‘do is the next step. Bouffants (a la Amy Winehouse), sleek high ponytails,
victory rolls or curls pinned up. Fringes are straight across the forehead and everything set with lots of spray to keep it in place. Set it off with bows, a petite netted fascinator or a big flower clip. No time for a fresh blow wave or curled ‘do gals? Tidy your hair up behind a sultry, top-knotted bandana or scarf.
Hair colour
Shiny jet black, bold copper red, fuschia pink and platinum blonde. Nothing is off limits, and it can never clash with your outfit if you put it together right. If you aren’t up for changing your hair permanently for one night, buy a temporary colour from the supermarket or grab yourself a wig.
Gents
Invest in some pomade and rebel out with a duck-butt or “DA”, pompadour, slicked back or jelly roll. Keep it tight by packing a comb in your pocket in case it gets out of place during the night.
4. Dollface
Sassy women need sassy makeup. Dita Von Teese is a perfect source of inspiration.
A matte foundation that is 1-2 shades lighter than your natural skin tone, subtly highlighted cheeks, and complemented with black winged eyeliner. The must-have is poppin’ red lips. Red looks spectacular on any babe, but you might need to search and try them out to find the perfect red for you.
"Female musicians also pioneered the rockabilly music scene. We recommend digging some far out sounds by Janis Martin, Rosie Flores and Brenda Lee when you’re getting ready."
5. The shoes
Babes, you’ll fit out out your feet in stiletto heel pumps, mary-janes, t-bars, ballet flats or some cute canvas sneakers. Lads can pace the party circuit in full loafers, chunky boots or canvas Converse sneakers.
6. Accessorise right
Dolls, brooches and clothing motifs featuring cherries, birds, skulls, anchors, horseshoes, music notes, dice or bows. Gents, add a pair of Ray-Bans for that ‘don’t care’ feel. Extra dapper cats can add a pair of suspenders to their get-up.
7. Tattoos
With this mish-mashing of music genres being viewed by some as rebellion, equally rebellious youth getting tattoos became popular around this time. Influenced by sailors returning from overseas, tattoo symbols were anchors, , along with pin-up girls, classic cars and skulls. Flaunt your rockabilly tattoos if you have them, or add a few temporary ones to complete your look.
Now that you're loaded with rockabilly know-how, to get the look of a vintage vixen ASAP.
Shop our massive collection of rockabilly clothing and accessories here.
