Rockabilly Style: What It Is and How to Achieve the '50s Look
The rockabilly style is one of the most recognizable trends in vintage fashion. This style emerged at the same time as rock and roll and combines influences from 1950s American culture with a rebellious and carefree attitude.
Leather jackets, high-waisted jeans, printed shirts, flared dresses, bandanas, and classic shoes are all part of a style that, decades later, continues to inspire designers and lovers of vintage clothing.
But what exactly is the rockabilly style, and what are its most distinctive pieces? In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about this aesthetic.
What is the rockabilly aesthetic?
The term combines the words“rock”and“hillbilly”and refers to a style associated with American music and youth culture of the 1950s. It refers to one of the earliest styles of rock and roll, with influences from country, blues, and rhythm and blues.
Over time, rockabilly evolved from being just a musical genre into a subculture. The music, hairstyles, cars, and clothing began to share a distinctive aesthetic. Today, when we talk about rockabilly fashion, we're referring to vintage clothing inspired primarily by the 1950s, though it also incorporates elements from later decades.
The Origins of Rockabilly
The rockabilly aesthetic emerged during the 1950s in the United States, at a time of significant social and cultural change. The rise of rock and roll sparked a revolution among young people, and artists like Elvis Presley became icons who helped popularize a look that broke with the formality of previous decades.
Clothing also reflected that change. Young people began to opt for more casual outfits, defined silhouettes, and elements that conveyed a rebellious attitude.
The Influence of Rock and Roll
Music was essential to the development of the rockabilly identity. The style of the musicians and their fans spilled out onto the streets.
For men, T-shirts, jeans, leather jackets, and patterned shirts became some of the most iconic pieces. And for women, dresses and fitted skirts were paired with high-waisted pants, form-fitting shirts, and eye-catching accessories.
Key Pieces of the Rockabilly Look
Printed Shirts
Shirts with boldprints, stripes, or checks are a must-have in any rockabilly wardrobe. For a modern look, pair the shirt with jeans and boots—a simple, contemporary rockabilly outfit.
Jeans and high-waisted pants
Denim is another major trend, jeans straight-leg, high-waisted jeans with classic cuts. Men used to wear high-waisted, straight-leg jeans, often with the hems rolled up, as well as dress pants with pleats and wide legs. Women, on the other hand, opted for high-waisted, fitted capri pants, along with wide-leg styles that accentuated the waist.
Leather jackets
The leather jacket is probably one of the garments most closely associated with the men's rockabilly look. In addition to protecting against the cold, it adds that rebellious touch that defines the style.
Flared Skirts and Dresses
In women's fashion, flared skirts and dresses were a must-have. Styles inspired by the 1950s and the rockabilly aesthetic stand out for their waist-cinched silhouettes and prints such as polka dots, flowers, and checks.
Vintage T-shirts
T-shirts featuring graphics related to music, cars, and American culture also play an important role in the rockabilly aesthetic.
Bandanas and scarves
The bandanas and scarves are the most iconic accessories of the rockabilly style; they were worn in the hair or around the neck. In addition to adding an extra touch, they helped complete the look in a simple and carefree way.
