It Was Never a Phase Mom: Grunge Is Here to Stay
Image Courtesy: Strike FSU
Ripped jeans, flannel shirts, and combat boots are some of the staple pieces that were worn by the ultimate rebels of the 80s and 90s. Grunge fashion originated as a reflection of Generation X’s frustration with the rising effects of capitalism in the 80s, including heavy influences from popular punk and heavy metal musicians of the time. The style itself represented the opposition of the materialistic excess and glamour of the decade. Unlike punks and hippies, who through music and fashion made statements about the world and political movements, the grunge scene was a bored, lost, and emotionally neglected post-punk generation that was fueled by individuality, disillusionment, detachment and frustration. The “non-fashion” look was thoughtless, uncoordinated, individualistic, but edgy. In support of the anti-materialist mindset, Grunge looks were often put together from thrift store and Salvation Army finds. The ultimate goal of the look was dressing down to the extreme, with an edgy spin on casualness and comfort.
In the 90s, Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love became the muses for Grunge fashion, becoming known for their effortless look of baggy apparel, mismatched patterns and various fabrics. Other inspirations came from Neil Young, who was also known as the “Grandfather of Grunge,” as well as bands like Pearl Jam, the Smashing Pumpkins, and Alice in Chains. These musicians became the influence for the edgy but popular look.
Although the Grunge look was originally opposed to being a fashion style, it was later brought to the runway by Marc Jacobs with his Spring 1993 collection for Perry Ellis. Designers such as Calvin Klein, Anna Sui and Versace later followed suit with their own interpretations of the style themselves. Grunge however, ultimately failed within the high fashion world because it was not a look that could be easily repackaged and sold to those who related to it as it was out of their price range and defied the anti-consumerism attitude that the look originated from.
Grunge’s popularity is still prevalent in 2021, evolving into what is now known as modern-day Grunge. With different sub-genres like soft grunge, pastel grunge and indie grunge, it shows that look itself is more than wearing oversized or all-black ensembles. Soft grunge incorporates the original aesthetic while blending in modern influences for a lighter appearance while pastel grunge mixes an edgy look with the soft appearance of pastel colors, making a lighter and less intense look. The overall key to a modern day Grunge-inspired look is de-emphasizing the silhouette of the body through strategic layering and understanding proportions. This can be done by incorporating utility wear, chain-link jewelry, and layering with oversized open tees or throwing on some baggy jeans. It maintains the original edge and individuality that came with the Grunge look while incorporating the modern influences of today’s fashion trends.
As sustainable and recyclable fashion remains at the forefront of environmentally friendly consumerism, so does the Grunge look as that’s where its origin lies. Proving to be one of the most iconic and long-lasting styles, it’s clear that Grunge is here to stay.
Strike Out,
Writer: Arielle Vabre
Editor: Lexi Fernandez
Graphics: Ceserae Jensen
Tallahassee