Rockabilly music is an earlier style of rock and roll music, dating to early 1950s in the United States. It is a "blend of country & western, bluegrass and rhythm & blues" which inspired other musical artists to develop the classic rock 'n' roll sound. Most notable of this genre of music is Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley and in the 1980's The Stray Cats.

In the late 40s to early 50s, fashion was the buttoned up, conservative look of the post war era. Men stuck to traditional pants, shirts and sweaters. Women aligned themselves with the wholesome pin up girl of the 40s. As the 50's decade progressed, conservative fashion values started moving towards the more racy Bettie Page look.  This is evident if you watch classic B movies from the that era. 

The film “West Side Story”  or "The Outsiders" by Francis Ford Coppola often defines the looks within the rockabilly scene. The youth of early 50s America embraced the sounds of rockabilly music and clothing but this was often transcended by the generation gap, your social standing and class.  

Rockabilly fashion was split between a more conservative look that appeased parents, aligned with your social class all the way to a more youthful rebel for those that wanted to clash or rebel against their parents. For girls the look is often portrayed as full skirt dresses matched with crinoline, conservative makeup, teased hair or ponytails.  Dresses were often a simple look with borders or polka dots with a conservative neckline. For the rebel or youthful spirit this translated into a Bettie Page look with leopard prints, leather jackets and bright lipstick. This look was often accentuated with the Rosie the Riveter open necked blouses in bold prints.

Bringing the rockabilly fashion look to life is Kassandra Love who models the clothing line from Rosie the Rebel boutique in Toronto, Ontario.

Watsonphotography.ca creates unique images of fashion, models, people, travel, nature and racing sports by Toronto photographer Peter Watson.

Credit:

Model: Kassandra Love

Location, Props and Clothing:

Rosie the Rebel Boutique

961 Bloor Street West

Toronto, Ontario

Photography: Peter Watson

Post-Processing: Peter Watson