I definitely have no singing capabilities whatsoever nor can I play any musical instruments, but I can dress the part! I’ve been mistaken on many occasions as the “frontwoman” of one of the bands playing when I’ve been at shows. My friends and I have even had some fun with some drunk concertgoers who were convinced I was in one of the bands. It’s fun and I genuinely like the look, so if you’re wondering how to incorporate some rock star elements into your wardrobe, here’s a guide to get you going! Click on the photos below to shop the pieces shown.
Last Updated: November 2023
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Color Palette
You’ll usually want to stick with dark, muted colors, with the exception of red and white. Black or grey is a great base and then maroon, olive green, navy, and white are great colors to mix in. When in doubt – go with black.
(Faux) Leather
Okay, what says rock star more than some leather? I try to go for faux leather and I recommend you do, too, or buy vintage. P.S. A leather-looking motorcycle jacket is a must – so easy to throw this on with any outfit and give it an edgier vibe. I wouldn’t recommend wearing too many leather items in one outfit or it can look a little dominatrix, but you do you!
Shop Leather Items:
Studs + Spikes
I love me some hardware on my clothes and accessories, so sometimes I have to remember to dial it back and not have everything covered in studs or spikes. If it’s more subtle, this is a great way to add some more texture and interest to your outfit.
Shop Studs + Spiked Items:
Distressed
Distressing is a great way to give the IDGAF look of rock stars. Denim, shirts, shorts, sweaters with frays, rips, and tears look great and can be paired with many of the other elements listed on this post.
Shop Distressed Items:
Sequins
Yes, you can still rock some sequins and glam items with your look! Some feminity is completely okay, especially if that’s more your style. A sequin tank, skinny jeans, some studded shoes, and a red lip would look awesome!
Shop Sequin Items:
Denim
To be fair, what style doesn’t denim go with? Feel free to have fun with your denim – colored, ripped, dark, light – you can really do whatever you want with your denim!
Shop Denim:
Animal Print
Leopard print, tiger print, and snakeskin – oh, my! Don’t shy away from adding some animal print to your outfit. This is a great way to add some personality. I especially love leopard print and a leopard mini skirt paired with a graphic tank and a fun hat just drips in festival vibes.
Shop Animal Print Items:
Mesh + Fishnet
This material screams rock-n-roll! These can be a great layering piece, too, if you want to cover up some skin from that crop top or shorts. This is more daring and people do tend to think of it as risque, but that’s rock-n-roll, baby!
Shop Mesh + Fishnet Items:
Fringe
Fringe is a fun way to add some intrigue! I especially love a fringe belt like the one above that you can throw on with various outfits to add some edge.
Shop Fringe Items:
Military
Military-inspired elements have always been a staple in rock-n-roll fashion and camo and combat boots are the easiest way to incorporate this. Other ways include flashy hardware and structured elements, as well.
Shop Military-Inspired Items:
Outfit Inspiration
I wouldn’t recommend adding too many of these elements into the same outfit – it will start to look a bit costumey or just plain too much. It’s usually best to pick one or two statement pieces and then style around that with more subdued elements.
10 Staples You Need in Your Closet
Motorcycle Jacket
Long Wearing Red Lipstick
Black Jeans
Combat Boots
Graphic Shirt
Mini Skirt
Aviator Sunglasses
Bold Belt
Fishnets
Real-Life Inspiration
Need some actual rock stars to inspire you? I’ve got a ‘Dress Like‘ series that I give actual items you can shop to get their signature styles. Below are all the rockers I’ve created a ‘Dress Like’ post for, from oldest to most recent.
- How to Dress Like Penny Lane from Almost Famous
- How to Dress Like Maria Brink from In This Moment
- How to Dress Like Ash Costello from New Years Day
- How to Dress Like Heidi and Carla from the Butcher Babies
- How to Dress Like Avril Lavigne
- How to Dress Like Amy Lee from Evanescence
- How to Dress Like Taylor Momsen from The Pretty Reckless
- How to Dress Like Lzzy Hale from Halestorm
- How to Dress Like Hayley Williams from Paramore
- How to Dress Like Courtney Love
- How to Dress Like Joan Jett
- How to Dress Like Papa Emeritus from the Band Ghost
- How to Dress Like Jenny Humphrey from Gossip Girl
- How to Dress Like Gwen Stefani from No Doubt
- How to Dress Like Lacey Sturm from Flyleaf
- How to Dress Like Scene Queen
- How to Dress Like David Draiman from Disturbed
- How to Dress Like Mixi Demner from Stitched Up Heart
What do you think? Did I miss any elements that would help attain this rock star look? Comment below!
Help! I love all these ideas but can’t narrow down a look. Going to a rock theme party but want to look less costume-y – more trendy !
What would you do!?
Hi, Kelly! I’d focus on one or two pieces that you really love and keeping the rest of your outfit relatively simple. That should make it less costume-y!