Welcome to the fascinating world of alternative fashions, where individuality, self-expression, and creativity thrive. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various alternative styles, including gothic, punk, rock, bohemian, hippy, streetwear, and grunge. Whether you are looking to update your wardrobe or just curious about these diverse subcultures, this article will provide you with everything you need to know.Table of Contents
- Gothic Fashion
- Punk Fashion
- Rock Fashion
- Bohemian Fashion
- Hippy Fashion
- Streetwear Fashion
- Grunge Fashion
- Alternative Brands and Designers
- Finding and Purchasing Alternative Clothing
- Kicchi: Your One-Stop Shop for All Things Alternative
Gothic Fashion
Gothic fashion is a dark and mysterious style that originated in the late 1970s as an offshoot of the punk rock movement. It is characterized by its use of dark colors, especially black, and often features intricate lace, silver jewelry, and Victorian-inspired elements.
Clothing
Gothic clothing is typically designed to be dramatic and elegant, incorporating velvet, lace, and leather. Common pieces include corsets, long flowing skirts, fishnet stockings, and platform boots.
Accessories
Accessories play a significant role in gothic fashion, with silver jewelry, chokers, and belts being popular choices. Other common accessories include fingerless gloves, lace gloves, and parasols.
Makeup and Hairstyles
Gothic makeup is often bold and dramatic, with heavy use of black eyeliner, dark lipstick, and pale foundation. Hairstyles tend to be long and straight or feature elaborate updos, often dyed in dark shades.
Punk Fashion
Punk fashion is a rebellious and edgy style that emerged in the mid-1970s as part of the punk rock movement. It is characterized by its DIY ethos, often featuring torn clothing, band t-shirts, and unconventional hairstyles.
Clothing
Punk clothing often includes items such as ripped jeans, leather jackets, band t-shirts, and plaid skirts. Other popular items include fishnet stockings, combat boots, and tight pants.
Accessories
Accessories in punk fashion commonly include studded belts, chokers, and bracelets. Patches, badges, and buttons featuring band logos or political messages are also frequently used to customize clothing.
Makeup and Hairstyles
Punk makeup is typically bold, with heavy use of black eyeliner and brightly colored eyeshadow. Hairstyles are often unconventional, including mohawks, liberty spikes, and brightly colored hair.
Rock Fashion
Rock fashion is inspired by various rock music genres, including classic rock, heavy metal, and glam rock. It is characterized by its use of leather, denim, and band merchandise, often featuring bold prints and metallic accents.
Clothing
Rock clothing typically includes items such as leather jackets, band t-shirts, skinny jeans, and studded belts. Other common pieces include denim jackets, miniskirts, and fishnet stockings.
Accessories
Accessories in rock fashion often include layered necklaces, chokers, and bracelets. Band logo patches, badges, and buttons are also popular for customizing clothing.
Makeup and Hairstyles
Rock makeup is bold and dramatic, with heavy use of black eyeliner, smoky eyeshadow, and bold lipstick. Hairstyles tend to be long and tousled or feature voluminous curls, often with highlights or bold colors.
Bohemian Fashion
Bohemian fashion, also known as boho or boho-chic, is an eclectic and free-spirited style that originated in the late 19th century. It is characterized by its use of natural materials, earthy colors, and intricate patterns, often inspired by various cultures.
Clothing
Bohemian clothing often includes items such as maxi dresses, peasant blouses, wide-leg pants, and embroidered jackets. Other popular pieces include fringed vests, tunics, and wrap skirts.
Accessories
Accessories in bohemian fashion commonly include beaded jewelry, layered necklaces, and wide-brimmed hats. Other popular items include leather sandals, fringe bags, and scarves.
Makeup and Hairstyles
Bohemian makeup usually consists of natural, earthy tones and minimal makeup. Hairstyles tend to be long and wavy, often with braids, twists, or other boho-inspired elements.
Hippy Fashion
Hippy fashion, also known as hippie or flower child, emerged in the late 1960s as part of the counterculture movement. It is characterized by its use of bright colors, psychedelic patterns, and loose-fitting clothing, often inspired by nature and Eastern spirituality.
Clothing
Hippy clothing typically includes items such as tie-dye shirts, peasant blouses, bell-bottom pants, and flowing maxi dresses. Other popular pieces include patchwork vests, fringe jackets, and ponchos.
Accessories
Accessories in hippy fashion commonly include beaded jewelry, headbands, and peace sign symbols. Other popular items include leather sandals, woven bags, and round sunglasses.
Makeup and Hairstyles
Hippy makeup is usually minimal and natural, with a focus on healthy, glowing skin. Hairstyles are often long, wavy, and natural, sometimes adorned with flowers or other natural elements.
Streetwear Fashion
Streetwear fashion is a casual and comfortable style that originated in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It is characterized by its use of sportswear, denim, and graphic prints, often featuring bold colors and oversized silhouettes.
Clothing
Streetwear clothing often includes items such as hoodies, t-shirts, joggers, and sneakers. Other popular pieces include denim jackets, bomber jackets, and cargo pants.
Accessories
Accessories in streetwear fashion commonly include baseball caps, beanies, and backpacks. Other popular items include chunky sneakers, statement sunglasses, and high-top sneakers.
Makeup and Hairstyles
Streetwear makeup is typically minimal and natural, with a focus on healthy, glowing skin. Hairstyles tend to be casual and low-maintenance, often featuring braids, buns, or other simple styles.
Grunge Fashion
Grunge fashion is a casual and unkempt style that emerged in the early 1990s as part of the grunge music movement. It is characterized by its use of oversized clothing, flannel shirts, and distressed denim, often featuring a mix of masculine and feminine elements.
Clothing
Grunge clothing often includes items such as oversized flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and band t-shirts. Other popular pieces include combat boots, oversized sweaters, and denim jackets.
Accessories
Accessories in grunge fashion commonly include chokers, layered necklaces, and slouchy beanies. Other popular items include backpacks, oversized sunglasses, and combat boots.
Makeup and Hairstyles
Grunge makeup is typically minimal and natural, with a focus on smudged eyeliner and neutral lip colors. Hairstyles tend to be messy and undone, often featuring loose waves or bedhead-like styles.
Alternative Brands and Designers
There are numerous alternative brands and designers that cater to these diverse subcultures and styles. Some popular options include Spiral Direct, Crazy Colour, Directions Hair Dye, TUK, and Koi Footwear. Be sure to explore various alternative brands and designers to find the perfect pieces for your wardrobe.
Finding and Purchasing Alternative Clothing
Finding and purchasing alternative clothing has never been easier, thanks to online marketplaces such as Etsy, Attitude Clothing, and Kicchi. These platforms offer a wide selection of alternative clothing, accessories, and more, catering to various subcultures and styles.
Kicchi: Your One-Stop Shop for All Things Alternative
Kicchi is your one-stop shop for all things alt and vintage. From punk to goth, steampunk to emo, whatever you're into, Kicchi has the merch that reflects you - at highly praised low prices! Don't forget about their Pop Up locations in Philadelphia either; keep an eye out or sign up on our website for updates so you don't miss a beat. And if it's cool AND different? Let us know what unique items YOU have--Kicchi loves checking those out too! Get your gear today online 24/7 OR come by and join us offline at a Philly pop spot soon.
In conclusion, alternative fashion is a diverse and fascinating world that celebrates self-expression, creativity, and individuality. Whether you're drawn to the dark elegance of gothic fashion, the rebellious edge of punk style, or the free-spirited nature of bohemian fashion, there's an alternative style for everyone. So, explore these various subcultures, find the perfect pieces for your wardrobe, and embrace your unique sense of style.
