How to Dress Rockabilly: 13 Steps
Rockabilly style is a fusion of 1950s-inspired fashion, music, and culture, drawing heavily from the era’s rock ‘n’ roll and hot rod scenes. Whether you’re an enthusiast or just dipping your toes in the style, dressing Rockabilly can be as simple or as detailed as you want it to be.
Follow these 13 steps to help you achieve the perfect Rockabilly ensemble:
1. Research the style: Start by learning about Rockabilly history, music, and fashion trends. Look into iconic figures like Elvis Presley and Wanda Jackson for inspiration.
2. Hair and makeup: For women, classic Rockabilly hairstyles include victory rolls, pin curls, or a headscarf with a pin-up hairdo. Men can opt for a pompadour or slicked-back hair. Eye-catching makeup with winged eyeliner and bold red lipstick completes the look.
3. Choose your colors: Primary colors like red, black, and white are common in Rockabilly fashion, but don’t be afraid to use pastels or vibrant patterns.
4. Embrace vintage patterns or prints: Look for clothing with polka dots, leopard print, cherries, anchors, and flames to incorporate into your outfit.
5. Women’s clothing: Opt for high-waisted capri pants or skirts paired with button-down shirts or vintage-inspired blouses. A circle skirt with a petticoat underneath gives off a classic Greaser girl vibe.
6. Men’s clothing: Classic jeans rolled up at the bottom (to show off boots), white crew-neck T-shirts with rolled sleeves (think Marlon Brando), plaid button-down shirts, and mechanic-style jackets embody the Rockabilly style.
7. Accessories: Both men and women can wear bandanas around their necks, tied around their heads or on wrists. Women can also add vintage-inspired jewelry, like oversized pearls and cat-eye sunglasses.
8. Shoes: For women, opt for peep-toe heels, saddle shoes, or ballet flats. Men can wear leather or suede boots but think about adding a little American flair with creepers or wingtips.
9. Socks and stockings: Women might wear knee-high socks or fishnet stockings for an extra touch of vintage fashion, while men can show off colorful or patterned socks with their rolled-up jeans.
10. Go all out with custom designs: If you’re committed to the Rockabilly lifestyle, consider investing in custom-made outfits or personalized patches for your jacket.
11. Layering: Mix and match modern and vintage pieces to create the perfect balance of old-school Rockabilly and current fashion trends.
12. Attend events: Check out local Rockabilly music shows, car events, or vintage fairs to immerse yourself in the culture and show off your fantastic style.
13. Have fun: Most importantly, have fun experimenting and playing around with different styles until you find what works best for you. Rockabilly fashion is all about celebrating an era and expressing yourself!
Now that you have these 13 steps in mind, get ready to rock that Rockabilly look and turn heads wherever you go!