Elvis was a key figure of the original Rockabilly movement. He sang "Blue Suede Shoes," one of the most iconic Rockabilly songs, and helped fuse country and blues into a new musical genre---rock and roll. To make yourself an Elvis costume, take one of his popular musical numbers, like "Jailhouse Rock," and choose clothing that matches what he wore. Choose a black and white striped jailhouse shirt and pair it with black pants, black shoes and a black denim jacket. Grease your hair back in that classic Rockabilly pompadour style, or wear an Elvis wig.
Buddy Holly was a major figure in the Rockabilly movement, and remains a legend to this day for his music. His signature look would make a great costume. He wore thick, black-rimmed glasses and a blue, gray or black and white suit during most of his concert and TV performances, and he always had his guitar in his hands. He also wore his hair a little curly in the front, and always seemed to wear a smile.
In England, the Rockabilly movement included young rebels who wore fashions that brought back clothing styles of the Edwardian period. Wearing drape coats made of wool with velvet or satin lapels and cuffs, the Teddy Boy was a rebel of his generation. He listened to Rockabilly music and rode his motorcycle with his favorite girl at his side. He wore a particular hairstyle, nicknamed the Tony Curtis, and slicked back his hair on both sides so it met perfectly in the middle at the back of his head. Complementing the look were tight trousers and suede shoes. This look would make for a highly recognizable Rockabilly costume.
One of the most famous pin-up girls of the 1950s was Bettie Page, who's famous for the rebelliousness she exhibited by posing for a variety of provocative pictures. Because of her ties with Nashville, where she was born and raised, she's often connected to the Rockabilly movement. You can pull off the pin-up rebel girl look by mimicking the classic Bettie Page hairdo. Pair it with a halter dress in a typical 1950s print, like polka dots or flowers, and a pair of saddle shoes so you can dance the night away at the sock hop.