As we continue our look through all different Gothic styles, this month we feature Rockabilly for the people who love fifties style clothing with an extreme edge, and we find out more from Kates Clothing about this amazing style.
What are the origins of the Rockabilly style?
Inspiration is drawn from 1940′s and 50′s style and taken to the extreme. With a resurgence in rock and roll style music in the 1970′s courtesy of bands like The Cramps and The Stray Cats the retro style also became popular but often had a punk edge. More recently, with stars like Dita Von Teese championing vintage looks, the fashion has become more glamorous and sleek.
Does the rockabilly style differ from other Gothic styles?
It differs completely. Think bright, pop colours like scarlet, bright blue and leopard print. Big, swing dresses in busy prints and kitsch accessories like pearls, cherries and dice. For guys bowling shirts or American work-style shirts with brothel creeper shoes is a popular look.
The rockabilly look with a trashier, creepier edge is often associated with Psychobilly or Punkabilly. Leopard print in green or purple, brightly dyed hair, fishnets and spooky accessories like bone hair clips or horror-themed t-shirts.
Rockabilly in black, or perhaps purple, is Gothabilly, combined with some aspects of traditional Gothic style – swap the cherry necklace for a bat necklace but still in a kitsch way.
Which brands are associated with Rockabilly?
Designer Vivien of Holloway makes some amazing swing dresses and pencil dresses but they can be pricey. Hell Bunny make some affordable swing dresses and petticoats as do Hearts & Roses London and Necessary Evil are expanding their retro range all the time.
Kreepsville666 make some awesome creepy kitsch accessories and bags. Bordello are the affordable rockabilly shoe designer with their classic platforms starting at less than £50.
What would be the must-have Rockabilly item of clothing?
A swing dress, petticoat and a quiff without a doubt. Hell Bunny have just introduced coloured net skirts to add extra fun to outfits.
Shop the full range of Rockabilly clothing now.
