Rockability Makes a Return.
Words by: Chris Gill
There’s something about the rockabilly look that just
oozes cool. Perhaps it’s because of all the iconic
imagery left behind of musicians who have
channelled the style throughout time. Or perhaps it’s
due to the edgier modern update we see today,
tattoos and all. Either way, the spirit of the rockabilly
is hard to match.
With rockabilly-inspired style resurfacing across the
runway and high street in recent times, we’re happy
to call the look a trend for AW14.
Of course, for true rockabillies – those men (and
women) who live and breathe the culture – it’s much
more than just a ‘trend’, it’s a way of life. With that in
mind, we’re simply exploring how key elements of
the aesthetic can be incorporated into a
contemporary wardrobe.
But first, let’s take a brief look at the origins of
rockabilly style and how it has evolved over time…
Rockabilly is considered one of the earliest forms of
rock ‘n’ roll, which dates back to the 1950s. The term
‘rockabilly’ is actually an amalgamation of the words
‘rock’ and ‘hillbilly’ – referencing the cross between
rock ‘n’ roll and country music that influenced its
development into its own sub-genre.
First made popular by legendary artists such as Elvis
Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis, the influence of the
rockabilly movement dipped in the 1960s, before
seeing a revival in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Since then, the genre of music and image that comes
with it has continued to exist as a subculture,
producing several sub-styles in both music and
fashion.
Traditionally, the rockabilly look for guys comprised
leather biker and denim jackets, plaid and bowling
shirts, jet-black jeans, and two-tone brogues or
chunky boots. And we can’t forget the quiff, of
course.
Today’s rockabilly aesthetic borrows much of these
signature pieces, celebrating the vintage aspects of
the style. However, there is an edgier undertone in
contemporary rockabillies, who adapt elements of
punk rock and indie looks, such as full sleeve tattoos.
It’s all about a cool, carefree attitude that only a true
rockabilly would be able to pull off authentically.