Rockabilly style: Its history, influence and how to wear it today

Rockabilly style is much more than a fashion trend; it is a symbol of rebellion, creativity and nostalgia that has endured from the 1950s to the present day. This style, which fuses the aesthetics of rock & roll music with retro fashion, continues to captivate new generations thanks to its versatility and timeless character. In this article, we'll explore its history, influence on contemporary fashion and tips for incorporating rockabilly style into your everyday.

Origin and evolution of the rockabilly style

The rockabilly style emerged in the 1950s, driven by the explosion of rock & roll in the United States. This movement combined elements of country and rhythm and blues, and gave rise to a youth subculture that found a form of expression in fashion.

The rockabilly aesthetic is characterised by a mix of the elegant and the daring. For men, the typical look included leather jackets, skinny jeans and pompadour hairstyles. Women, on the other hand, adopted the rockabilly pin-up style, with tight dresses, flouncy skirts, polka-dot prints and bright red lips. These elements, along with the influence of the films and music of the time, helped to establish the style as a cultural icon.

Over the decades, rockabilly fashion reinvented itself. Punk and rockabilly revival bands of the 70s and 80s reintroduced this aesthetic in a new context, giving it a fresh look without losing its vintage essence.

How to wear rockabilly style today

The rockabilly style is still relevant in today's fashion, adapting to new trends without losing its original spirit. Whether you're looking for a complete look or you prefer to incorporate some retro touches, this style offers many possibilities. Here are some ideas for men and women.

Rockabilly style for women

For women, rockabilly women's style is synonymous with femininity and boldness. Here are some key elements:

• Vintage dresses: opt for dresses with fitted cuts or floaty skirts, combined with polka dot, cherry or vichy check prints.
• Accessories: Scarves tied in the hair, cat-eye glasses and wide belts are essential to complete the look.
• Make-up: Cat-eye eyeliner and deep red lips are a must for an authentic pin-up look.

Rockabilly style for men

Men's rockabilly style has a rebellious and casual feel. Here are some tips:

• Basic clothing: A plain white T-shirt paired with skinny jeans and a leather jacket is a foolproof look.
• Shoes: Creepers or Chelsea boots are perfect options for this style.
• Hairstyle: The classic pompadour or toupee is still the hallmark of the masculine rockabilly look.

Incorporate rockabilly style into your wardrobe.

If you don't want a completely retro look, you can include key pieces such as a leather jacket, scarf or vintage-style shoes to add a subtle touch to your outfit. Also, rockabilly clothing is very versatile and adapts to a variety of occasions, from casual events to themed parties.

The influence of rockabilly style in contemporary fashion

The influence of rockabilly fashion extends beyond vintage fashion circles. High fashion designers and contemporary brands have adopted elements of this aesthetic in their collections, from retro prints to classic silhouettes.

The rise of sustainability and interest in vintage clothing has also contributed to the resurgence of rockabilly style. Buying second-hand or vintage clothing is not only a way to embrace this look, but also to support a more ethical and conscious approach to fashion.

Rockabilly is more than just a fad; it's a way to express your individuality and pay homage to a golden era of music and culture. Whether you prefer pin-up style or a more casual, rebellious look, this style has something for everyone.

Ready to incorporate rockabilly style into your shop or wardrobe? Contact us to discover our wide selection of vintage clothing and find unique pieces that will make your business or personal style stand out - give your life an authentic, retro touch!