Alternative Subculture: What Is It?

It’s all over TikTok but what really is it ?

Alt subculture, formally known as alternative subculture, though recently trending on TikTok is not really anything new in retrospect. The alternative subculture, put simply the outsiders, is a type of culture that exists on the fringes of mainstream culture. A subculture is a group of people within a culture that differentiates itself from societal norms, in the process developing their own norms and political values. The alternative subculture is a vast umbrella term that houses the most bizarre and niche aesthetics despite not normally sharing much in common, except for their relative obscurity. One’s subculture is usually classified by their music taste, their political beliefs and their fashion sense. Music is a relatively big factor for identification when looking at a vast number of groups within the subculture. Alternative subcultures are unique in terms of their striking sense of fashion, that almost entirely juxtaposes commercial fashion. Popular alternative fashion examples are but not limited to: cyber punk, grunge, emo, lolita, harajuku and scene. Let’s look at some of these notable groups and what their clothing would look like:

• Cybergoth: This is a scene that appeared in the late 1990s and has remained relatively unchanged. You can find cybergoths rocking a typical goth outfit (PVC dress) accentuated with cyberlocks, goggles, furry leg warmers, neon accessories and even gas masks. They will most likely be listening to electronic goth music.

• Lolita: This subculture combines Japanese Lolita with Western Gothic influences. A typical Lolita outfit is inspired heavenly by Victorian and Edwardian clothing so corsets, buttoned blouses and bell shaped skirts or dresses are definitely needed for this community.

• Emo: Emos became popular in the mid 2000s. Most Emos will be sporting mostly black clothing with studded belts and band tees. Emos are most likely recognised by their long side-swept bangs that usually only cover one eye.

• Scene: Scene kids are often known as the more colourful cousins of Emos. Their fashion is influenced by a collaboration of indie, hip hop, rave and punk. They are normally suited up in bright clashing colours, cartoon print hoodies, skinny biker jeans and studded belts.

So, what is alternative subculture at its core? It is a group of people who don’t want to conform to the often repetitive dominant culture. They are just regular people who don’t want to be restricted by what society says you can and can’t do. As redefining and breaking social norms becomes increasingly popular, we cannot wait to see everyone's different personalities uncover and bloom. Whether it is Alt Culture or Basic Culture, remember to always stay true to what you want to be, and the version of yourself you want to achieve.