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Rockstars are often at the vanguard of fashion, but not in the way that we usually think of it. You won't see their clothing or accessories on catwalks in London, New York, and Paris, but you will see them having an impact on culture at large.
In this guide, we look at some of the rock star trends you should follow if you're looking for an effortless and rebellious wardrobe. Here's what to go for:
Lived-in beauty elements
First place you might want to start when going for the rock star look is with lived-in beauty elements. You want to lean into a slightly undone aesthetic.
For example, you could go for a shaggy wolf cut or a dramatic side part with shaved hair on the other side. For makeup, you aim for a smokier eyeliner and a sharper, deeper, bolder lipstick. These less precise approaches to aesthetics are a trademark of the rock star world. They indicate edginess, and it's something that professionals in the industry use all the time to convey meaning and create a vibe.
Asymmetry
Another hallmark of the rock star aesthetic is asymmetry. When outfits and accessories are different on one side from the other, it disrupts the notion of order and indicates more chaos. Perfect symmetry by itself often looks too safe, so look for items and outfits with asymmetrical hemlines or one-shoulder straps.
Ask yourself if you would be better suited to oversized slouchy sweaters or baggy pants. These give off an effortless vibe while at the same time remaining well within the boundaries of accepted rock star style aesthetics.
Velvet or fur
How many velvet and fur items do you have in your wardrobe? Right now, the answer is probably very few, but this is something that rock stars loved to wear back in the day. Think about Stevie Nicks or Jimi Hendrix and how they incorporated dramatic plush fabrics into their outfits.
You could start with something as simple as a velvet blazer that you wear on top of the rest of your outfits, or you could go for a shaggy fur coat, which is ideal if you live in a cool-weather climate. These outfits add a sense of instant rock royalty, and they're something that people will pay attention to whenever you go to social gatherings.
Toughened footwear
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For the rock star look, you could opt for toughened footwear as well. Classic combat boots and chunky platforms are ideal when you're looking to transform your wardrobe into something that a rock star might have with them while on tour. The right type of shoes grounds your entire outfit and gives you more attitude. If these shoes are extraordinary, they're often the first thing people will notice about what you're wearing, well beyond your T-shirt and jeans. They tend to add weight and gravity to your clothing.
Chunky loaded silver jewelry
You might also want to go for chunky, loaded silver jewellery such as cool industrial barbells. Don't just wear piercings on your ears. Instead, look for other opportunities to add them to your body.
When it comes to rock-star jewellery, it's all about piling as much on as you can. You can stack multiple silver chains on top of each other and put rings on your fingers as much as you want, as many as you want. Don't shy away from ear cuffs, safety pins, chains, or anything else with an industrial accent. This is the ultimate hallmark of getting the rock-star look.
Distressed heavy leather jacket
A distressed, heavy leather jacket, or one made from high-quality faux leather, is also non-negotiable. You can find these at bespoke stores and tailor shops, and they're often willing to create jackets that are perfectly made for your size. Look for something that's a bit scuffed or broken in if you can. Sometimes makers will add these textured details after creating the clothing, but you can also find them at a second-hand store.
Don't assume that the first leather jacket you find is the ideal choice for you. In many cases, a vintage moto jacket can be just as appealing as a structured blazer, depending on your figure and when you want to wear it. Keep exploring your options before making a final choice, both online and in person.
High contrast textures
High-contrast textures are a way for you to create more disruption in your rockstar aesthetic. Most professionals in the industry mix multiple vibes instead of just one. The magic happens when you contrast all of the elements and create something new.
For instance, you might want to wear a floral maxi dress with a studded belt, or you could wear chunky combat boots with a silk slip dress. Really, it's entirely up to you. When you mix these styles in a way that makes visual sense, it can dramatically elevate your look. Suddenly, people notice you and want to learn more.
Statement eyewear
Statement eyewear is non-negotiable if you're trying to create a rock star wardrobe. The idea is to build an element of mystery into your personality by pairing your outfits with dark sunglasses.
During the 1990s, sharp frames were all the rage, whereas oversized aviator style was a big hit in the 1970s for bands like T-Rex and Motörhead. If you want to create an elite look, then you could go for pitch-black lenses. These again create a sense of mystery, but they also tell other people not to mess with you.
Elevated band Tee
Finally, you could go for an elevated band tee. Anyone can throw on a graphic T-shirt, but rock stars style it. Instead of letting it hang loose, they knot it at the waist or pair it with a high leather skirt. It's really up to you how you want to create your look.
Try to find a band tee that lists the history of the concerts that you've visited. Look for something that reminds you of all the experiences you’ve had with your favorite rockstars.
