In the mid-seventies, Punk spanned all aspects of culture, including fashion.
By Emily Lamison
8/11/2005
Photo by Laura Petrilla
Its American roots were planted in New York City, where influential art and poetry scenes had birthed the Velvet Underground and Andy Warhol’s Factory. The genre was an in-your-face disco backlash that became synonymous with New Yorkers like Blondie and the Ramones. Soon after, the English youth, dissatisfied with their government, expressed their rebellion through Punk style, characterized by the Clash and Sex Pistols.
Each scene adopted its own signature look with simple elements. English Punks sported Mohawks, leather and ripped clothing. Some claim that New York proto-punk Richard Hell single-handedly introduced the torn, disheveled look to English rockers, while the Ramones made leather jackets, skintight jeans and Converse sneakers icons of Punk. Today’s Brooklyn scenesters like Yeah Yeah Yeahs and the Strokes carry the torch of their urban predecessors.
By the eighties, New Wave hit the scene. In spite of its slick counterpart, Punk still thrived. Mohawks were dyed vibrant, crayon colors while slashed hems and fishnet stockings completed the look. New Wavers adopted an equally edgy style with a bit more polish: think skinny ties and asymmetrical hairdos.
Punk was reincarnated in the nineties, in the Grunge style, and, ironically, on the catwalk. Fishnets and Manic Panic made way for flannel and Doc Martens. Versace, Zandra Rhodes and Betsey Johnson were among the designers inspired by Punk. Their designs included strategically placed holes and precious metal safety pins.
Today, Punk influence pervades pricey designer boutiques and malls in the suburbs. Pittsburgh offers a plethora of Punk pieces, including vintage items and contemporary knock-offs. Vintage stores feature authentic period tees and accessories. Eons and Hey Betty, both located in Shadyside, offer boundless opportunities to create an eclectic style. Pay homage to the New Wave fifties revival with Cyndi Lauper-style cat’s eye glasses, or recreate a seventies Punk look with a pair of clunky combat boots. Set aside a whole day and hit a few Goodwill stores in various neighborhoods like Shadyside or the Southside. The selection varies widely and you never know what you’ll find! For modern adaptations of punk looks, head to the Slacker on the South Side, or scan the malls for Hot Topic stores.
To remain cutting-edge, keep on the lookout for Grunge staples as well. Scope out flannels, baby doll dresses and boots at thrift and vintage shops. Rumor has it this anti-fashion statement is due for its own couture revival.
