Finding the Perfect Hair Subculture
Your hair is more than just a part of your appearance—it's a statement. Just take a look at the flappers. During the Roaring Twenties, young women started to cut their hair into short bobs to push back against the era’s rigid gender norms. For these women, chopping off their long locks was not just a cosmetic change, it was also a bold statement signifying the importance of women’s liberation.
Like the flappers did in the 1920s, many men and women today choose to set themselves apart from the cultural mainstream by integrating themselves into subcultures and adopting boundary-pushing aesthetics. Indeed, from punk to emo to bohemian, there are countless hair subcultures that can help you express your personality, values, and creativity. But with so many options, how do you find the right one for you?
Whether you're looking to make a bold change or simply tweak your current look, we've got you covered. Dive into the world of hair subcultures with us and find out which style resonates with your unique personality and lifestyle!
Punk
A product of the 1960s and 1970s, punk led to seismic shifts in the cultural landscape, changing the hair game for good. The punk aesthetic is characterized by spiky mohawks, bright neon colors, and copious amounts of hair gel. Show your dedication to the punk ethos of rebellion and nonconformity by experimenting with piercings, undercuts, and neon hair dye.
Green Day drummer Tré Cool puts the “green” in Green Day with his punk rock locks.
Best for: Rebels, music lovers, and those looking to stick it to the establishment
Goth
Unlike the loud and proud punks, goths are quite broody and mysterious, favoring dark, dramatic hairstyles over bright and flashy mohawks. Many goths live and die by pitch black hair, but you can embrace the darkness with deep purples and reds as well. To really enhance the gothic look, try a pale make-up palette. The stark contrast of black hair against pale makeup will up the drama ten-fold.
Best for: Dark souls, horror lovers, and those with a flair for the dramatic
Emo
If you’re feeling particularly angsty, you might consider going emo. This style has evolved but remains a potent symbol of youthful emotional expression. Emo hairstyles are characterized by side-swept bangs covering one eye and dark, often dyed hair. Though emo hair is typically sleek and straight, many of those in the group like to incorporate colorful streaks or highlights to assert their individuality. Turn your angst into an alluring look!
Beau Bokan, vocalist of the metalcore band Blessthefall, perfectly captures the essence of emo with his dramatic side-swept bangs.
Best for: Tortured artists and fans of My Chemical Romance
Vintage
Feeling nostalgic for the past? Well, vintage hair subcultures offer a blast to the past! Vintage subcultures, which offer an eclectic and evocative array of hairstyles, draw inspiration from pin-up fashion, swing dance, rock-a-billy, and retro lifestyles. Classic examples for men include Elvis Presley and John Travolta in Grease.
Country-influenced hairstyles, like the mullet, can be considered vintage as well. The mullet, known for its iconic "business in the front, party in the back" style, has seen a revival thanks to its ironic appeal and association with vintage Americana.
Euphoria star Jacob Elordi (left) rocks a mullet in a photoshoot with GQ. Compare his mullet to the one Billy Ray Cyrus (right) sported in the 90s. Elordi’s mullet is much shorter, sticking to the modern trend of the subtle, feathery mullet.
Celebrate bygone eras by experimenting with vintage hairstyles.
Best for: Retro enthusiasts, cosplayers, and those who want a timeless look
Bohemian
Natural waves, loose braids, and effortless chic are hallmarks of the bohemian subculture. Focused on natural beauty and easy living, the boho aesthetic has become synonymous with beachy waves, fishtail braids, and messy buns. Flowers, beads, and scarves can help enhance the relaxed and free-spirited vibe. For more inspo, take a look at Instagram and TikTok.
Actress Vanessa Hudgens lets her locks flow at the music festival Coachella. Hudgens’s free-flowing waves have inspired many festival-goers over the years.
Best for: Free spirits, festival-goers, and nature lovers
BONUS: Natural
Whether your hair is curly, coily, or wavy, embrace your natural hair by joining the natural hair movement! The natural hair community is focused on maintaining healthy hair through minimal styling and protective styles. Though natural hair takes on all different shapes and forms, some common looks include afros, twist-outs, and protective braids. Whether you're looking to break free from the cycle of damaging treatments or simply want to try something new, going natural is a powerful way to express self-love and confidence.
Best for: Everyone! Especially those looking to embrace their authentic selves, celebrate their unique hair textures, and minimize hair damage. The natural hair movement is about loving your hair just as it is, and finding beauty in its natural state.
Final Tips
- Identify your style icons: We all have people we look to for inspiration, whether it’s a friend, a lifestyle blogger, or a celebrity. Think about people whose style you've always admired. Are they a punk rock legend or a bohemian goddess? Whoever it is, don’t be afraid to take a page from their notebook!
- Consider your lifestyle needs: Some hairstyles require more upkeep than others. Choose the style that most seamlessly fits into your daily routine. Hairstyling should be fun, not overwhelming.
- Experiment, experiment, experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new things! Hair grows back, and you might discover something you love through the process of trial and error. Be bold and try different colors and cuts!
- Consult your community: If you don’t know where to start, reach out for help! Ask your friends for their input or seek out a professional stylist for tailored tips. Professional stylists or hairdressers can give you advice on what styles would best suit you.
- Have fun with it: The best part of hairstyling is the freedom to express yourself. Don’t get stuck trying to label yourself. You do not have to squeeze yourself into a single box. Enjoy the process of finding your unique look!
