Original Skinheads: A Comprehensive Look at Their Style and Appearance

When discussing original skinheads, it is essential to understand the context and the time period in which they emerged. The modern image of skinheads is often associated with elements such as jeans, boots, Harrington jackets, Crombie-coats, and a specific haircut. However, to truly understand the original skinheads, one must dive into the early days of this subculture, often depicted in literature such as Skinhead by N. Knight. This book provides a comprehensive view of the early days of the skinhead subculture, giving insights into fashion and style that have been morphed over the decades.

Early Skinhead Fashion

The skinhead style was heavily influenced by the subculture's origins in the 1970s. Some of the key fashion items of the original skinheads included:

STAY PRESSED TROUSERS: These trousers, often referred to as STA-Press, were a staple in the skinhead wardrobe. They were designed to be straight-cut and styled to sit at the waist, providing a crisp, clean look. SUITS: Many skinheads during this period were seen in pastel-toned pinstripe suits, complete with brogued or loafers. These suits were often paired with white socks and black shoes, emphasizing a dressed-up and neat appearance. BOOTS AND JEANS: Hiking boots, often brown or black, were a common choice. These were paired with jeans, usually dark and often worn in a light wash to maintain a clean look. HARRINGTON AND CROMBIE-JACKETS: These classic jackets provided both a functional and fashionable element to the skinhead look. Harringtons were often worn closed, while Crombie jackets were more open and stylish.

The Haircut: The Defining Feature

The most noticeable feature of original skinheads was their haircut. The most common hairstyles were a No. 2 or 3 military style cut. This means the hair was cut short, but not completely bald. Sideburns were also common in the early 1970s, but they began to fade as the subculture developed. It is worth noting that the sideburns were relatively short and not as prominent as they later became in later iterations of skinhead style. No complete baldness defined the early skinheads, marking their style as distinct from the more extreme versions seen today.

Conclusion

The original skinheads were a subculture of the 1970s, characterized by a specific fashion sense and distinctive haircuts. Fashion items such as STA-Press trousers, pastel pinstripe suits with brogues, brown or black hiking boots, and dark jeans were common. The iconic No. 2 or 3 military-style haircut, with occasional sideburns, completed their look. Understanding the original skinheads can provide valuable insights into the evolution of this subculture from its roots to the modern interpretation. For a deeper dive into the origins and style of original skinheads, N. Knight's 'Skinhead' is a must-read.