1980s Chola

Much like Pachuca style, the Chola style is very distinct. A lot of the original Cholas came from working-class backgrounds. Because of this, they made use of what was available to them and not only made it work but they also made it stylish. They wore “cheap stuff like wife-beaters over baggy pants by brands like Dickies, a workwear label sold for cheap at local supermarkets.” (Caldern) ó

The style also evolved from sharing clothes with brothers and feminizing the cholo gangster look. Cholas wore their eyebrows thin, their eyeliner thick and black, and their hair teased or feathered, sometimes with tall bangs made stiff with hairspray. They also accessorized with gold jewelry: door-knocker earrings and nameplates or chain necklaces.” (Caldern) ó

Because the Chola style is so distinctive and creative, it has been stolen and appropriated by many celebrities and designers. Gwen Stefani is infamous for being a “culture vulture” and appropriating aspects of Chola style like thin brows, dark-lined lips, long nails, and gold jewelry. She also uses parts of the culture like lowriders and Cholos as props in her music video “Luxurious”.