3 Ways To Look Like A Rockstar - WikiHow

Home » How To Dress Like A Rockstar » 3 Ways To Look Like A Rockstar - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Look Like a Rockstar PDF download Download Article Co-authored by Melynda Choothesa

Last Updated: March 10, 2025 References

PDF download Download Article
  • Picking a Style
    • |
  • Building Your Wardrobe
    • |
  • Complementing Your Look
    • |
  • Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Warnings
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Melynda Choothesa. Melynda Choothesa is a Costume Designer, Wardrobe Stylist, and Art Director with over 10 years of fashion consulting experience. She has worked on creative direction for fashion shows, costume design, and personal wardrobe styling, both in Los Angeles, California and internationally for clients such as Akon, Kathy Ireland, and Aisha Tyler. She has an Associate of Arts in Fashion Design from Santa Monica College. This article has been viewed 412,819 times.

Whether disheveled or dapper, rockstars define stylish cool for many people. Since the rockstar look covers both a range of established styles and individual eccentricities, it can be difficult to know where to start as you adopt the style. Across the variety of rockstar looks, an emphasis on edginess provides a consistent hallmark on which to focus while you develop your personal rockstar style.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 3:

Picking a Style

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Identify performers with a look that you like. 1 Identify performers with a look that you like. Rockstars have developed divergent fashion styles to match the diversity of rock genres like Indie Rock, Glam, Punk, Hip Hop, Metal, Electronic, etc. Explore your options and note fashion choices that are common in a specific genre of rock music that interests you. Fashion journalists periodically compile useful lists of particularly stylish rockstars.[1]
    • For women, decide whether you want a look that is feminine or more gender-neutral. You can wear a dress with combat boots, or you could pair a ripped top with jeans. Choose a rockstar look that reflects your personality.
    • For men, decide how simple you want to keep it. You can combine a band T-shirt, skinny jeans, and Converse sneakers. Alternately, you can choose a tailored suit for a more foppish rockstar look. Consider which look matches your personality best.
    • No matter what style you choose, maintain a consistent aesthetic over time.[2]
  2. Step 2 Read for inspiration. 2 Read for inspiration. Music publications like rollingstone.com and nme.com, and fashion magazines like gq.com and esquire.com periodically cover the overlap between fashion and music. You can keep up with trends in music fashion by staying current with these publications.
    • You are not confined to the style of one sub-genre. You can use the specific style of one group to help you connect with like-minded people, but you do not need to limit yourself. If you stay too close to one established style, you may come across as less original and edgy than you intend.
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Consider your budget. 3 Consider your budget. This may be an expensive project if you will be changing your entire wardrobe. Decide how much money you can afford to spend and make sure that you can realize your preferred style within that limit. Fashion and lifestyle publications often provide pointers.[3]
    • Leather jackets, tailored suits, and designer jeans are all expensive. When you are on a tight budget, only buy these items if they complement the rockstar clothes that you already have.
    • Inexpensive leather bracelets and belts can add some edginess to your clothes, but they will not help stretch your budget if they do not last. Stay away from cheap leather products that are likely to deteriorate quickly.[4]
    • If you are in a band, proper equipment should be your first priority. Not only will it elevate your performance, it will be a major part of your rockstar image while on stage.
    4. Advertisement
Method 2 Method 2 of 3:

Building Your Wardrobe

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Identify what you already have. 1 Identify what you already have. You probably own some items that you can use with your new style. Not only will this make your transformation cheaper and easier, your well-worn clothes will add authenticity to your rockstar look.
    • Sort clothes into sections. Note what percentage of your clothes are darks, whites, or bright colors. Dark colors and blacks are common for rockstar style. If you have a large percentage of bright colors, look to pair them with darks for balance.
    • Repurpose clothes. If you have plaid shirts, wear them loosely with a white T-shirt and a pair of jeans. This will give you a simple, versatile grunge rock look.
    • Take a new look at old clothes. Tattered and torn clothes are popular in rockstar fashion.
  2. Step 2 Use patches, pins, and badges. 2 Use patches, pins, and badges. Several patches, or a large band patch on the back, can transform an ordinary denim jacket into a common rockstar emblem. Patches or pins can make clothing or a bag seem more personal or add an edge to ordinary clothes.
  3. Step 3 Buy black skinny jeans. 3 Buy black skinny jeans. Jeans are important for rockstar looks because they are durable and they don’t need regular care. They are consistently in style, and they are versatile. Skinny jeans expand your options without stretching your budget. Low maintenance clothes are especially important for musicians that may need wear the same clothes multiple times while on tour.
  4. Step 4 Choose a jacket carefully. 4 Choose a jacket carefully. The right leather coat, a denim jacket, or a blazer can elevate the rest of your wardrobe. The right jacket can add edge and personality to the rest of your clothes. Invest in stylish and durable outerwear that best suits the type of rockstar style that you are emulating.
    • Many stores also sell cheaper pleather, or fake leather, jackets. This could be a good option if you're on a tight budget or are only looking to wear a rockstar look for a short period of time.
  5. Step 5 Shop at thrift stores. 5 Shop at thrift stores. Unless you are emulating a glam rock star style, you are most likely to look like an authentic rockstar by keeping it cheap. At a thrift store, you can find various styles at inexpensive prices. You also will have a one-of-a-kind look that others will not be able to imitate.
    • Buying items second-hand can allow you to find quality pieces that you might not be able to afford otherwise.[5]
    • Unclaimed dry cleaning can occasionally be bought cheaply, though dry cleaners are more likely to donate unclaimed clothes to charities. Nevertheless, laws regulating unclaimed property vary by state so you may find a dry cleaner that will sell you unique items at discounted prices.
    6. Advertisement
Method 3 Method 3 of 3:

Complementing Your Look

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Choose a versatile belt. 1 Choose a versatile belt. Accessories can add edge or individuality to your look. The right details will complete your style, and they will also create more possibilities for adding variety to your developing wardrobe.
    • A skinny, brightly colored belt can add a welcome splash of color to a look that consists mostly of blacks and dark colors.
    • For many styles of rockstar fashion, a studded belt is a staple. You can find studded belts at Primark, Haze, Voodoo, PacSun, Claire's Accessories, Attitude and New Look.
  2. Step 2 Use jewelry to complete your look. 2 Use jewelry to complete your look. Spiked bracelets emphasize danger and ferocity. They are popular in punk, metal, and goth styles. Likewise, a skull shaped ring can strengthen a rebellious look.
    • Choose a statement necklace or leather choker to add interest to your look.[6]
  3. Step 3 Select the right shoes. 3 Select the right shoes. For disheveled looks, Converse sneakers or black boots are popular. For more refined looks, a formal dress shoe may be appropriate. Note that certain styles may lead others to make assumptions about you. For example, people may expect you to skate if you wear skate shoes.
    • A fun print, like cheetah or snake, can be a great option for your shoes.[7]
  4. Step 4 Pick a haircut that fits your style. 4 Pick a haircut that fits your style. A good hairstyle for a rockstar may be either subtle or extreme. Shaggy hair is common as it fits the image of a disinterested rebel. If you want a more extreme look, consider a mohawk or a buzz cut. Fashion and style publications occasionally compile useful lists of rockstar hairstyles.[8] Bring in a picture or show your new rockstar image to a trusted stylist who can help you decide on the right style.
    • If you are a touring musician, consider a style that will not need regular cuts to maintain. Since you may be on the road for long periods, you may have difficulty scheduling appointments with trusted stylists.
    • Get imaginative with hair dye, wash in colors, and styling products. Rockstar style often involves projecting confidence while looking unusual. Look for pictures of styles that you like and find out which product is used for that style: hair gel, paste, pomade, mousse, cream, or hairspray all have different effects.[9] Ask friends with distinctive hairstyles to suggest their preferred hair products and brands.
  5. Step 5 Apply makeup to complete your look. 5 Apply makeup to complete your look. Look at the rockstars that you have used as models to see how they use makeup. It can be used it sparingly or to create an over-the-top look. Once you find a style that you want to try, you can find tutorials on Youtube. Don't be afraid to try a new style: you can always clean it off and try a different look.
    • Heavy black eye liner is popular for metal and goth styles. Additional color or blush is common among rockstars cultivating a dandy or foppish image.
    • Glam and art rock performers use makeup to create color schemes, shapes, and patterns that exaggerate, transform, or obscure facial features. David Bowie, The Sweet, and Alice Cooper are prominent examples.
    6. Advertisement

Quiz Pack: We’ve handpicked these quizzes just for you.

You’ve read the article, now get personalized advice with wikiHow Quizzes. Each quiz is carefully researched and even endorsed by experts. Have fun and get the expert advice you need! 1 - What Is My Style Quiz 1 What Is My Style Quiz 2 - What Is My Aesthetic Quiz 2 What Is My Aesthetic Quiz 3 - What Should I Wear Today Quiz 3 What Should I Wear Today Quiz

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question How would I "DIY" a rock star outfit? Community Answer Community Answer You can usually find old band shirts and jeans at Goodwill. Also, a good pair of Chucks or Vans are comfortable and practical, and they look cool. If you have a denim or leather jacket, that's good too. You can grow your hair out and let it get messy. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 39
  • Question What kind of hairstyle should a drummer have? Community Answer Community Answer Typically, a drummer's hairstyle can be anything, but the most popular style is usually either a spiky hairstyle, man bun, or long center part. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 7 Helpful 26
  • Question I want to be more of a hippie, but still a hard rocker, how do I do this? Community Answer Community Answer You could go for longer hair and/or a hair bun. Use old school shades and wear flared jeans with boots. Depending on your style, brighter colors such as purple, silver, or yellow might work well. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 29
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Tips

  • To look like a rockstar, carry yourself as one. Choose clothes that make you feel confident.[10] Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
  • Get your garments tailored so they fit you properly.[11] Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
  • Avoid wearing extensive band merchandise. A shirt or a bag can be a great way to bring attention to your favorite artist or show off your excellent taste. Too much band clothing can detract attention from the style that you are developing. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Show More Tips

Tips from our Readers

The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
  • Accessories, like rings and bracelets, with spikes or skulls on them are a great way to make your rock outfit really come together and stand out.
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • For musicians, don’t wear anything that affects your performance. Fashion is a part of rock and roll, but your fashion should not get in the way of the music. Thanks Helpful 12 Not Helpful 1
  • Don't dress like a rockstar if you don't think the look would suit you. You won’t be satisfied wearing a different style if it is something that you don’t want to have define you. Thanks Helpful 11 Not Helpful 2
  • Try a look out first before you commit to it. You may love a style only to find out that you are uncomfortable wearing it in public. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1
Advertisement

You Might Also Like

Dress PunkHow toDress Punk Dress Like an 80s RockerHow toDress Like an 80s Rocker Dress for a Rock ConcertHow toDress for a Rock Concert Be a PunkHow toBe a Punk Dress GothHow to Dress Goth: The Ultimate Guide Look Like Joan JettHow toLook Like Joan Jett Dress Like an ArtistHow to Dress Like an Artist: Creative & Practical Ways Look EmoHow toLook Emo Dress Cool for Middle School (Boys)How toDress Cool for Middle School (Boys) Dress Gothic (Men)How toDress Gothic (Men) Dress in Simple Alternative FashionHow toDress in Simple Alternative Fashion Dress Like a Metal HeadHow toDress Like a Metal Head Look ToughHow toLook Tough Develop a Good Fashion SenseHow toDevelop a Good Fashion Sense Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ http://www.complex.com/style/2013/01/the-50-most-stylish-rock-stars-of-all-time/
  2. ↑ Melynda Choothesa. Professional Stylist & Fashion Designer. Expert Interview
  3. ↑ http://www.esquire.com/style/advice/g294/rockstar-look-081409/
  4. ↑ http://www.businessinsider.com/6-ways-to-spot-cheap-leather-2015-7
  5. ↑ Melynda Choothesa. Professional Stylist & Fashion Designer. Expert Interview
  6. ↑ Melynda Choothesa. Professional Stylist & Fashion Designer. Expert Interview
  7. ↑ Melynda Choothesa. Professional Stylist & Fashion Designer. Expert Interview
  8. ↑ http://www.gq.com/gallery/best-rockstar-haircuts
  9. ↑ http://www.gq.com/story/choose-hair-product
More References (2)
  1. ↑ Melynda Choothesa. Professional Stylist & Fashion Designer. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ Melynda Choothesa. Professional Stylist & Fashion Designer. Expert Interview

About This Article

Melynda Choothesa Co-authored by: Melynda Choothesa Professional Stylist & Fashion Designer This article was co-authored by Melynda Choothesa. Melynda Choothesa is a Costume Designer, Wardrobe Stylist, and Art Director with over 10 years of fashion consulting experience. She has worked on creative direction for fashion shows, costume design, and personal wardrobe styling, both in Los Angeles, California and internationally for clients such as Akon, Kathy Ireland, and Aisha Tyler. She has an Associate of Arts in Fashion Design from Santa Monica College. This article has been viewed 412,819 times. 111 votes - 77% Co-authors: 60 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 412,819 Categories: Singer Inspired Style In other languages Spanish Italian Russian
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 412,819 times.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Melynda Choothesa Co-authored by: Melynda Choothesa Professional Stylist & Fashion Designer 111 votes - 77% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 60 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 412,819

Quizzes & Games

What's My Clothing Style Quiz (For Men)What's My Clothing Style Quiz (For Men)Take QuizWhat Should I Wear Today QuizWhat Should I Wear Today QuizTake QuizWhat Is My Style QuizWhat Is My Style QuizTake QuizAm I Emo QuizAm I Emo QuizTake QuizFashion Stylist QuizFashion Stylist QuizTake QuizWhat Do I Look Like QuizWhat Do I Look Like QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Dress PunkHow toDress PunkDress Like an 80s RockerHow toDress Like an 80s RockerDress for a Rock ConcertHow toDress for a Rock ConcertBe a PunkHow toBe a Punk

Featured Articles

Remove Shorts from Search Results on YouTubeHow toRemove Shorts from Search Results on YouTubeWhat Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & Icebreakers110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?How Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?

Trending Articles

Which Fictional Character Would Crush On You?Which Fictional Character Would Crush On You?Who Is Secretly Crushing On Me Right Now QuizWho Is Secretly Crushing On Me Right Now QuizAttractiveness Score QuizAttractiveness Score QuizIs My Crush Pretending Not to Like Me QuizIs My Crush Pretending Not to Like Me QuizHypersexuality TestHypersexuality TestWhat Are the Gay Male Body Types (And Which Do You Have?)What Are the Gay Male Body Types (And Which Do You Have?)

Featured Articles

Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerWhat Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasExercise Your BrainHow toExercise Your BrainBe a Fun Person to Hang out WithHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out With

Featured Articles

What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?Develop Productive HabitsHow toDevelop Productive HabitsPractice Self CareHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?What Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Will 2026 Be Your Year? Reveal Your FutureWill 2026 Be Your Year? Reveal Your FutureUnderstanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)

Watch Articles

Tie a Loop KnotHow toTie a Loop KnotMake Body OilHow toMake Body OilMake Almond MilkHow toMake Almond MilkWash White Clothes by HandHow toWash White Clothes by HandSkin a ChickenHow toSkin a ChickenClean Tile Floors with VinegarHow toClean Tile Floors with Vinegar

Trending Articles

What Are My Soulmate's Initials QuizWhat Are My Soulmate's Initials QuizChoose Your Own Adventure GameChoose Your Own Adventure GameYour Red Flag Based On Your Celeb CrushesYour Red Flag Based On Your Celeb Crushes151 of the Juiciest “Most Likely To” Questions to Ask151 of the Juiciest “Most Likely To” Questions to AskAm I Good at Flirting QuizAm I Good at Flirting QuizWhat Is Your Lip Type?What Is Your Lip Type?

Quizzes & Games

What Makeup Should I Wear QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizTake QuizWhat Men's Haircut Should I Get QuizWhat Men's Haircut Should I Get QuizTake QuizAm I Cool QuizAm I Cool QuizTake QuizMakeup Quiz: Discover The Perfect Stye For YouMakeup Quiz: Discover The Perfect Stye For YouTake QuizAm I More Goth or Emo?Am I More Goth or Emo?Take Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Arts and Entertainment
  • Celebrities
  • Celebrity Style
  • Singer Inspired Style
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --561

Tag » How To Dress Like A Rockstar