The power of music is undeniable. It has the ability to bring people together, to inspire and uplift, and even spark social change. But beyond its universal appeal, music also has the ability to influence and shape subcultures, from their fashion to their beliefs and values. In this article, we will explore the impact of music genres on subculture style, delving into the symbiotic relationship between music and fashion, and how the two art forms have evolved alongside each other through the years.
Behind Every Subculture Style: Music Genres
A subculture is a group of people who share common interests and beliefs that differ from those of the mainstream culture. These subcultures have their own unique style, often defined by clothing, accessories, and overall aesthetic. And while a subculture’s style may seem to be solely based on personal preferences, it actually goes much deeper than that. Music genres play a significant role in shaping the style of a subculture.
Think about the punk movement in the 1970s, for example. The punk subculture was driven by the raw, rebellious music of bands like the Sex Pistols and The Clash. The DIY, anti-establishment attitude of punk rock was reflected not only in the harsh and edgy sound of the music, but also in the subculture’s fashion. Leather jackets, safety pins, and ripped clothing were all key elements of the punk style, mirroring the punk music’s disregard for mainstream norms.
The Relationship Between Music and Fashion
The influence of music on fashion is clear throughout history, with each decade often defined by a specific genre and its corresponding style. In the 1950s, rock ‘n’ roll was the driving force behind the rebellious and casual fashion of leather jackets, jeans, and graphic t-shirts. In the 1980s, the rise of hip hop gave birth to streetwear and a fusion of urban and sportswear fashion. And in the 1990s, the grunge movement brought a laid-back, anti-fashion aesthetic to the forefront, heavily influenced by the alternative rock scene at the time.
But it’s not just the overall style of a subculture that is influenced by music genres. Even the smallest details, like hair and makeup, can be traced back to a specific type of music. The iconic coiffed hair and bold makeup of the New Romantics subculture in the 1980s were heavily influenced by the new wave music of bands like Duran Duran and Spandau Ballet.
The Evolution of Music and Subculture Style
As music genres evolve, so do their corresponding subculture styles. Take the gothic subculture, for example. Its origins can be traced back to the 1970s post-punk music scene, but it has evolved over the years alongside different branches of gothic music. The original gothic subculture style was dark, dramatic, and heavily influenced by Victorian and Edwardian fashion. But as gothic music branched out into different sub-genres like industrial and metal, so did the fashion, with each sub-genre having its own distinct style while still maintaining the overall gothic aesthetic.
Similarly, the influence of electronic dance music (EDM) can be seen in the current trend of sportswear and bright, neon colors in fashion. The upbeat and energetic sound of EDM is reflected in the vibrancy and movement of the clothing, from sports bras and leggings to oversized t-shirts and hoodies.
In Conclusion
It’s undeniable that music has a strong influence on subculture style. From punk to hip hop, gothic to EDM, the music we listen to shapes not only our personal style but also the subcultures we identify with. As music genres continue to evolve and new subcultures emerge, we can only imagine what new styles will emerge and how music will continue to influence them.
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