If you’re a fan of vintage style, bold colours and a rock and roll attitude, then rockabilly fashion might be just what you’re looking for. Originally popularized in the 1950s, it remains a popular scene today, with modern twists and variations on the classic look. The style is all about embracing your individuality and expressing yourself confidently through your clothing. In this ultimate guide to womens rockabilly fashion, we will explore the history of the movement, iconic pieces and accessories, as well as tips and tricks for creating your own unique look.
The History of Rockabilly Fashion
Rockabilly fashion emerged in the 1950s as a subculture that combined rock and roll music with vintage fashion. The term “rockabilly” originated as a blend of the words “rock” and “hillbilly,” referencing the mix of blues, country, and rock music that became popular during this time.
The Origins of Rockabilly Fashion
The origins of rockabilly fashion can be traced back to the emergence of rock and roll music in the mid-1950s. Musicians like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry became icons of the genre and helped popularize the rebellious style that defined the rockabilly subculture.
Rockabilly fashion drew inspiration from vintage clothing styles, such as 1950s swing dresses, high-waisted pants, and classic leather jackets. The style often featured bold patterns, like polka dots and stripes, as well as vibrant colors like cherry red and sky blue.
The Evolution of Rockabilly Fashion
Over the years, rockabilly fashion has evolved while still retaining its vintage roots. In the 1970s, the punk movement embraced rockabilly fashion, adding its own DIY twist with safety pins and ripped clothing. In the 1980s, the psychobilly subculture blended rockabilly with horror and goth elements, resulting in a darker, edgier style.
Today, rockabilly fashion has become a staple of retro and vintage-inspired clothing brands. The style remains a popular choice for those who appreciate the classic, timeless look of vintage fashion with a rebellious edge.
Key Elements of Rockabilly Style
Rockabilly fashion is a retro-inspired style that dates back to the 1950s. It’s a mixture of rock ‘n’ roll and vintage fashion. Here are the key elements that make up the perfect rockabilly look.
Hair
The rockabilly look is known for its classic, timeless hairstyles. A popular style for women is the victory roll, which is characterized by a roll of hair that starts at the crown of the head and rolls back towards the nape of the neck. Pincurls, bouffants, and finger waves are other vintage hairstyles commonly seen in rockabilly fashion.
Makeup
Makeup is an essential part of rockabilly fashion for women. Red lipstick is a classic staple and is often paired with winged eyeliner and bold eyebrows. The overall look is glamorous and bold, with a hint of sex appeal.
Clothing
Rockabilly clothing is all about fitted and structured silhouettes. Women often wear high-waisted skirts, pencil skirts, and capri pants with a tucked-in blouse or crop top. Dresses with a full skirt and cinched waist are also popular. Prints like polka dots, cherries, and gingham are go-to patterns for rockabilly fashion.
- For a more casual look, rockabilly fashion also incorporates denim short shorts or high waist flares with classic t-shirts.
Accessories
Accessories are the final touch to a rockabilly outfit. Women often wear cat-eye sunglasses, headbands, bandanas or scarves tied around the head, and chunky jewelry. Shoes include classic pumps, saddle shoes, and ankle boots.
How to Incorporate Rockabilly Style into Your Wardrobe
If you’re looking for a way to spice up your wardrobe, why not try incorporating some rockabilly style? Here are some tips and tricks for bringing that retro flair into your everyday outfits.
Accessorize with Vintage-Inspired Pieces
One way to incorporate rockabilly style is through accessorizing with vintage-inspired pieces. Add a pop of color to your outfit with a retro scarf or bandana tied around your neck or in your hair, or wear a pair of cat-eye sunglasses for that ’50s vibe.
- Try wearing a pair of dice-shaped earrings or a necklace with a cherry charm to add a touch of rockabilly to your outfit.
- Pick up a vintage-style clutch or handbag for a cute and functional accessory.
Go for Bold Prints and Colors
Rockabilly style is all about standing out, so don’t be afraid to go for bold prints and colors in your clothing.
- Polka dots, stripes, and leopard prints are all great rockabilly-inspired prints to look for.
- Incorporate bright colors like reds, pinks, and yellows into your outfit for a pop of retro fun.
- Look for dresses with full skirts and cinched waists or high-waisted pants to complete the look.
Make a Statement with Retro Hairstyles
Rockabilly style isn’t just about the clothing – the hair is just as important in creating that retro look.
- Try a victory roll hairstyle, which involves rolling and pinning sections of hair up and away from the face, for a classic rockabilly look.
- A high ponytail with a scarf tied around it or a pin-up girl-inspired updo can also work well with this style.
Top Brands and Retailers for Rockabilly Fashion
Rockabilly fashion has never really gone out of style. If you want to rock this retro look, there are many brands and retailers to choose from. Whether you prefer well-known brands or indie designers, you’ll be able to find a wide range of rockabilly-inspired clothing and accessories to add to your wardrobe. Here are some of the top brands and retailers for rockabilly fashion:
1. Unique Vintage
Unique Vintage is an online retailer that offers a wide range of vintage-inspired clothing and accessories. The store has a dedicated rockabilly section, which features retro-inspired dresses, tops, skirts, and jackets. You can also find retro-inspired swimwear, lingerie, and accessories, including shoes, hats, and jewelry. Unique Vintage offers free shipping on orders over $150 in the U.S., and international shipping is available.
2. Hell Bunny
Hell Bunny is a UK-based brand that specializes in retro-inspired clothing and accessories. The brand offers a wide range of rockabilly-inspired clothing, including dresses, tops, skirts, and pants. You can also find retro-inspired swimwear, lingerie, and accessories, including shoes, hats, and jewelry. Hell Bunny’s clothing is available in sizes XS-4X, and the brand offers international shipping.
3. Sourpuss Clothing
Sourpuss Clothing is a U.S.-based brand that offers a wide range of alternative clothing and accessories. The brand’s rockabilly section features retro-inspired dresses, tops, skirts, and jackets. You can also find retro-inspired swimwear, lingerie, and accessories, including shoes, hats, and jewelry. Sourpuss Clothing’s clothing is available in sizes XS-4X, and the brand offers international shipping.
4. Pinup Girl Clothing
Pinup Girl Clothing is a U.S.-based brand that specializes in retro-inspired clothing and accessories. The brand’s rockabilly section features retro-inspired dresses, tops, skirts, and pants. You can also find retro-inspired swimwear, lingerie, and accessories, including shoes, hats, and jewelry. Pinup Girl Clothing’s clothing is available in sizes XS-4X, and the brand offers international shipping.
- Pinup Girl Clothing is committed to ethical manufacturing practices. The brand’s clothing is made in the U.S., and the company ensures that its workers are paid a fair wage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Womens Rockabilly Fashion
Womens rockabilly fashion has been gaining popularity in recent years, but there are still many questions about this retro style. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about womens rockabilly fashion and their answers.
What is womens rockabilly fashion?
Rockabilly fashion is a vintage-inspired style that originated in the 1950s. It’s characterized by bold prints, high-waisted bottoms, full skirts, and tight-fitting tops. Womens rockabilly fashion puts a feminine spin on the classic rockabilly style with vintage-inspired dresses, retro hairstyles, and cat-eye sunglasses.
Where can I buy womens rockabilly clothing?
There are many online and brick-and-mortar stores that specialize in rockabilly fashion. Some popular brands that offer womens rockabilly clothing include Hell Bunny, Voodoo Vixen, and Collectif Clothing. You can also find vintage-inspired pieces at thrift stores, flea markets, and online vintage shops.
How do I accessorize a rockabilly outfit?
Accessories are an important part of the rockabilly look. Some popular accessories include bandanas, cat-eye sunglasses, vintage brooches, and hair flowers. You can also add a pop of color with a bright red lipstick or nail polish.
What hairstyles are popular in rockabilly fashion?
Rockabilly hairstyles are usually retro-inspired and have a pin-up feel. Some popular hairstyles include victory rolls, Bettie Page bangs, and the pompadour. These styles can be achieved with hair rollers, bobby pins, and hairspray.
Can plus-size women wear rockabilly fashion?
Absolutely! Rockabilly fashion is all about embracing your curves and accentuating your assets. Many rockabilly brands offer plus sizes, and there are also plenty of vintage-inspired pieces that can be tailored to fit any body type.
Rockabilly Fashion for Every Body Type
Rockabilly fashion is all about celebrating individuality and embracing retro style. But what if you’re not quite sure how to make the trend work for your body type? Don’t worry – with a few simple tips, you can adapt rockabilly style to suit your unique shape.
Hourglass Figures
If you have an hourglass figure, you’ll want to draw attention to your small waist. Look for tops and dresses with structured bodices that nip in at the waist, and pair them with high-waisted skirts or pants. A-line skirts and dresses are particularly flattering on hourglass figures, as they highlight the narrowest point of the waist and flare out over the hips.
Pear-Shaped Figures
If your hips and thighs are wider than your shoulders and bust, you have a pear-shaped figure. To balance out your proportions, look for tops with interesting details like ruffles or bows that draw the eye upwards. Avoid tight-fitting bottoms and instead opt for A-line or swing skirts that skim over the hips. If you want to wear pants, look for pairs with a high waist and a wide leg to create a smooth silhouette.
Apple-Shaped Figures
Apple-shaped figures carry weight around their midsections, so you’ll want to draw attention to your legs and arms. Look for tops with flutter sleeves or cap sleeves that flatter the arms, and pair them with high-waisted shorts or skirts that show off your legs. Stay away from tight-fitting dresses and opt for loose-fitting A-line styles instead.
Busty Figures
If you have a large bust, you’ll want to look for tops and dresses that provide plenty of support without flattening your chest. Look for styles with underwire or thick straps, and avoid strapless or spaghetti strap tops. Avoid plunging necklines that are too revealing, and instead opt for V-necks that create a flattering elongated line. Balance your top half with a fuller bottom – a-line skirts and wide leg pants can work really well.
Straight Figures
For those with straight figures, it can be tricky to create definition at the waist. Look for dresses or tops with belts or cinched detailing at the waist, and pair these with high-waisted skirts or pants to create the illusion of an hourglass shape. Layer jackets or cardigans over tops to create depth and interest, and look for pieces with bold prints or patterns.
Plus-Size Figures
Rockabilly fashion is for everyone, and it’s all about celebrating your curves. Look for styles that fit well and make you feel comfortable – the most important thing is that you feel confident in what you’re wearing. Avoid overly baggy or shapeless pieces that can make you appear larger than you are, and instead look for A-line dresses, high-waisted skirts, and wide-leg pants that create a smooth silhouette. Remember that confidence is key in pulling off any style!
Frequently Asked Questions
| Questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| What is rockabilly fashion? | Rockabilly fashion is a style that emerged in the 1950s and is characterized by vintage-inspired dresses, bold prints, and a rebellious attitude. |
| Where can I find rockabilly clothing? | There are many online retailers that specialize in rockabilly fashion, as well as vintage and thrift stores. |
| What types of accessories are popular in rockabilly fashion? | Popular accessories in rockabilly fashion include cat-eye sunglasses, headscarves, and chunky jewelry. |
| Can rockabilly fashion be worn by all body types? | Yes! Rockabilly fashion celebrates all body types and encourages self-expression through clothing. |
| What are some famous rockabilly fashion icons? | Famous rockabilly fashion icons include Marilyn Monroe, Bettie Page, and Elvis Presley. |
| Is rockabilly fashion still relevant today? | Definitely! Rockabilly fashion continues to inspire modern designers and fashionistas around the world. |
Thanks for Reading!
We hope you enjoyed this ultimate guide to women’s rockabilly fashion! Now that you know all about the style’s history and signature elements, it’s time to start incorporating them into your wardrobe for a fun and unique look. Remember to experiment with different prints, accessories, and hairstyles to truly make the look your own. And if you ever need inspiration or guidance, be sure to check back with us for even more tips and tricks!
