A Fifties costume idea suitable for Halloween or a theme party is that of the Rocker. Rockers were a British subculture of that era and, although sometimes also known as greasers, the latter term had a different meaning in Britain to North America.

Although the name did originate with Rock’n’Roll music, which was popular with the set, rockers were not actual musicians or rock and roll artists, and their clothing did not resemble that which is associated with modern rock bands.

The getup of a rocker was heavily influenced by motorcycle wear, as motorcycles were an important and, indeed, focal part of the subculture.

The Body

The principal item was a leather motorcycle jacket, which would be heavily decorated with such things as metal studs, patches and pin badges. Other worn items were T-shirts, leather caps, Levi’s and Wrangler jeans and motorcycle boots. An alternative to the boots would be brothel creepers, a type of suede shoe with a crepe sole.

The Head

Accompaniments worn whilst riding a motorbike would include an open faced motorcycle helmet and aviator goggles and a white silk scarf.

For the hair, a pompadour hairstyle held in place with Brylcreem, as was popular with a number of rock musicians of the era, would be the hairstyle of choice.

The Accessory

A true rocker would also have a specially customised motorbike; this is less than practical for a costume. During the 1950s, rockers also clashed with other groups such as the Mods. Perhaps a toy motorcycle would stand in for this.

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