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In the 1980s, several ethic and fashion movements became popular. However, while hippies were professing peace and love, a group of young British people was protesting against these principles and fighting hard to express their personality. These were the Skinheads, whose hairstyles soon became iconic.
On the other hand, directly from the Jamaican street culture, Rude boys fashion was developing in the same years, too.
If you want to revive both movements and make your style timeless, here you will find all the information that you need.
Contents
The Origins of Skinheads
Born in the late 1960s mod scene, Skinheads (often shortened to “skins”) were originally a working-class movement in London. Their name refers to their close-cropped or shaven heads, although there were several aspects of their aesthetic that were soon to become iconic. For example, all members of the working class were wearing Dr Martens and other work boots, button-down collar shirts, high rise jeans and braces.
The second wave of Skinheads aesthetic originated in the early 1980s. skins were motivated by alternative values, and they rejected the conservatism of the middle class and naivety of the hippie movement.
Today, their austerity and controversial fashion are what is left of Skinheads. Embracing their look is easy, and it can help you express your values and your personality.
The History of Rude Boys
The rude boys (or “rudies) subculture arose in 1960 from the poorer areas of Kingston, in Jamaica.
Those who were following this lifestyle were listening to ska and rocksteady music. Most importantly, they were all united under the same fashion style, made of sharp suits, pork pie hats, and thin ties. In other words, it was clear that their main influence was the fashion of American jazz artists.
At present, the Rude Boys style is still iconic and can be highlighted even more with the right twist of modernity. Many ska and ska-punk bands are still making great music, gathering fans with their art and their style from all around the world.
Ready to embrace your rude boy soul? Here you will find plenty of inspiration!
Do I Need to Shave My Hair?
Skinheads used to shave their hair very short, although they never went completely bald. Over the decades, their style has evolved, and now many Skins just shave the side partings of their hair.
Nevertheless, you don’t have to shave your hair if you don’t feel comfortable doing it. For example, many skinheads just removed their moustaches or beards. Female Skins were wearing a feather cut, which is a hairstyle short on the crown, with fringes at the front, back and sides.
Rude Boys and Skinheads Inspiration for Your Wardrobe
Collared Button-Down Shirts
Yes, you can still be controversial and express your ideas and your personality even if you are wearing a shirt. These pieces of clothing are linked to the ska and punk subcultures and can be worn with a pair of cosy jeans or some cargo pants.
Photo by Adaptor Clothing (Trojan Records Check Shirt With Pocket Square Navy and Orange)
Blazers
Rude boys found their inspiration from the talented American jazz and soul music artists. Blazers were an important piece of their wardrobes, as resembled the iconic look worn by Prince Buster, and other musicians.
Suits
Many Rudies preferred the American cowboy-inspired look, which resembled the fashion features in old gangster movies. If you want to achieve the same result, you can rock a sharp suit. With the right accessories and shoes, you will be able to wear it every day as an informal piece of clothing.
Skinny Ties
Who says that ties cannot be a controversial accessory? They were worn by ska and ska-punk artists, as well as Rude boys, to express their gangster look. They are cool and can be worn as an informal piece of accessories.
Tight-fitting Trousers
Forget your loose pants. True Skinheads only wore jeans, combat trousers and tight-fitting pants. Style them with a cardigan sweater, plain t-shirt or any V-neck sweater, and you will immediately feel fabulous and stylish.
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Brogues, Loafers and Dress Shoes
If you want to become a Rude boy but you can’t renounce your elegance and style, then you can still be perfect by wearing a pair of brogues or loafers. They are comfortable and perfect with jeans or any other pair of pants. Don’t forget to wear them sockless!
The Right Hat
The perfect hat can transform and improve any outfit, especially if you wish to achieve the perfect Rudies’ style. Trilby or pork-pie hats are the best ones, as they can be styled with any look and are also perfect for more formal occasions.
Dark Sunglasses
Gangsters always wear a pair of cool, dark sunglasses, and so do Rude boys. Find a good pair which matches your face shape, and you will immediately highlight your look. Old-school sunglasses are the best options, and you can find yours at any second-hand shop.
Work Boots
No Skinhead wardrobe is complete without a pair of Dr Martens or any other work boots. Recently, many brands have followed this trend, and nowadays you can find many cheaper and even vegan-friendly alternatives.
Football-Style Athletic Shoes
Boots may be a skinhead’s best friend, but soon even Skins fell in love with the comfort of a pair of Adidas or Gola. If you want an additional touch of style, you can choose your lace colours based on your favourite football team, or the other accessories you are wearing.
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