My advice for new/aspiring scene kids

 I know how it feels to want to be a part of something but not knowing where to start. Seeing so many people tear down kids for being "posers" when they are just starting out can be disheartening. I've made a small list of tips and tricks for you younger/aspiring/"wannabe" scenesters that want to join the subculture but don't know where to start. 

THE MUSIC-

    The music is a core part of the subculture, but there isn't just one music genre labelled "scene". there are TONS of music genres that scene kids listen to. my advice is to "taste test" a bunch of the core artists from the different genres to see what scene music you like best. Some genres under the scene umbrella include: post-hardcore, mall emo, crunkcore, deathcore, metalcore, and pop punk. find bands you like from these genres and build your playlist around them. this section is brief because there's just so much music to look into, so I urge you to do your own research on music.  

THE HAIR-

    the hair is the easiest way to make yourself look the part. you don't really need expensive statement hoodies and band tees when you are just starting out. choppy layers and side swept bangs teased really high is the go-to style for most, but there are other styles to explore as well. blunt bangs with teased layers and spiked hair with swoopy bangs will look good too. it all just depends on what era of scene you are going for and what style works best for you and your lifestyle. don't be discouraged if you have curly/coily hair!! look into styles that incorporate braids and dreads, there are about a million ways to style your hair to give off the scene vibe. the main goal is volume, so curls are a plus because you don't have to tease it as much to make it big. you can cut your hair yourself if you look up tutorials. just be careful!! 

THE CLOTHES- 

    If you have the hair, the clothes don't really matter as much. a basic tight tank top and some black skinny jeans can look great if you have the hairstyle. band tees, tight jeans, and hoodies are my personal go-to. if you don't like the feeling of skinny jeans, boot-cut or straight leg jeans look good too. avoid baggy jeans, they don't look as good IN MY OPINION. shoes to look into are Converse, Vans, Osiris, DC, and ballet flats (for a scene queen look). off-brand or plain shoes can look alternative with a little DIY. do whatever your budget allows. 

THE ACCESSORIES-

    less is more. a few accent necklaces here and a couple bracelets there is really all you need. the insane, decora level layering you see online isn't really necessary. I suggest looking into making kandi. its a great hobby and you get great accessories out of it. look for little toys and charms at dollar stores to attach to Kandi necklaces or bracelets. studded belts and wallet chains add flair further down. you can make hair bows with spare fabric and hair clips. focus on DIY while just starting out, don't spend a lot of money if you aren't fully committed to the lifestyle yet. black nail polish and eyeliner is cheap and looks great. 

FINAL THOUGHTS-

    do not immediately replace your whole wardrobe with Shein and temu clothes. you should build your collection gradually as you learn and grow with your style. the music is the heart and soul of any subculture, so don't go rushing into the style without understanding the music first. scene is fashion AND music based. 

  *this is just a personal list of things I looked for while starting out, it isn't gospel and you can do what you choose. I'm not an authority on this, I'm just trying to be helpful.