We see a style we like, we want it. And we want it fast. But oh no, you can’t wear those bracelets with that anymore because it’s not trending. You can’t wear that top anymore, it’s not trending. That’s not trending, this isn’t trending, this this and that.

What about having your own style?

I think when it comes to a lot of subcultures, especially alternative, it feels daunting to join and either make your closet similar, your music similar, etc. because you feel a lot of pressure and worry about veterans of that subculture shaming you or calling you a poser because you don’t do the exact same things as them.

It sounds like it’s a lot, but it doesn’t have to be.

It’s okay to follow trends, but feeling like you have to do the exact same things as everyone else to fit in feels wrong because it doesn’t allow you to express yourself in your own way.

Obviously, when it comes to subcultures, you need to do research on that subculture and see what the bare minimum is to be considered a member of that subculture. Besides that, it’s okay to dress how you want and listen to what you like as long as you do the bare minimum.

People calling you a poser for not knowing and/or liking every single band in a subculture or not copying the exact style that most wear is weird. Subcultures are about coming together as people with similar interests while also showing your own personal talents and likes.

And when it comes to basic trends, you don’t have to follow the exact trend to feel like you fit in. In fact, why fit in at all? The words ‘fitting in’ don’t sound right together anyway; it makes you sound like an outcast that no one wants to be around.

What matters is that you are being true to yourself and spending time with those who appreciate your true self. Shine bright like the diamond you are and follow whatever style suits your fancy while throwing in a couple quirks that stick with you.