Gothabilly

Gothabilly (also known as hellbilly), is a music genre and aesthetic that combines the classic rockabilly style with gothic elements, creating a dark and morbid atmosphere. It combines early 50s rock n' roll music influences with punk undertones. Music influences in Gothabilly are really vast, stemming from early rock and roll influences such as Chuck Berry and Little Richard, classic goth artist like Bauhaus and The Cure, and Psychobilly icons like The Cramps, The Nekromantix, HorrorPops and Tiger Army. The term Gothabilly is a portmanteau word that combines gothic subculture with 1950s rockabilly.

History[]

First used in the late 70s by The Cramps to describe their somber blend of rockabilly and punk rock. Thus, Goth and Rockabilly came together, in music and fashion, creating the Gothabilly. The style has also been linked to Deathrock, since there’s heavy amounts of love for vintage horror and dark humor. Goth rock is blended with the blues and country, a less aggressive form of one of its inspirations, Psychobilly. There’s an old retro rock n’ roll feel in Gothabilly, along with its dark and morbid tendencies that draw many people to the subculture.

Fashion[]

Gothabilly fashion combines elements of gothic and rockabilly styles. A typical Gothabilly outfit includes a vintage-inspired rockabilly dress with gothic accessories like fishnet stockings, chokers, cardigans and platform shoes. This combination creates a perfect blend of edgy and retro vibes. Contrasting colors such as black and red, purple and pink, and blue and green can help make a statement with a Gothabilly outfit. For example, you can pair a black leather jacket with a bright red or electric blue rockabilly dress. This contrast adds visual interest and highlights the fusion of different styles. Rockabilly fashion often features retro prints like polka dots, animal print, cherries, swallows, or skulls. You can incorporate these prints into your Gothabilly outfit by choosing a dress or top with a retro-inspired pattern. Pair it with gothic accessories and dark makeup to complete the look. Accessorizing is key to achieving the Gothabilly aesthetic. Look for vintage-inspired jewelry pieces like cameo brooches, skull earrings, or spiderweb necklaces. These accessories add a touch of gothic elegance to your outfit. Hairstyle can greatly enhance your Gothabilly look. Victory rolls, pin-up curls, or a sleek black bob with bangs are a great staple that complement the retro and edgy elements of the Gothabilly aesthetic. Some components of the style may include some Fetish Goth elements with its use of black silks, satins, lace and velvet, corsets, top hats, antique jewelry, PVC, and leather.

Beret hats
Bowler hats
Tea dresses
Swing skirts
Blouses
Button-up shirts
Leather jackets
Cardigans
Petticoats
Capri pants
Cuffed trousers
Corsets
Blazers
Vests & Waistcoats
Retro-style belts
Cat-eye glasses
Pussy bows
Bandanas & scarves
Bow-ties & suspenders
Gothic or retro handbags
Mary Jane heels
Creeper shoes
Platform shoes

Music[]

Gothabilly music has a distinct sound that’s different from Psychobilly, while Psychobilly fuses 1950s rockabilly with 1970s punk rock in a faster, more aggressive sound, vintage monster movies and grease-stained '60s garage rock, Gothabilly fuses the bluesy side of rockabilly with gothic piano and guitar, and is defined by having slower tempos and emphasizing mood over aggression.