One of the most overwhelming yet fun things you get to do as an alternative person is building your wardrobe. A huge part of any alternative style is usually the music and fashion.
Personally, I am a huge believer in wearing whatever you wish, and listening to what you like. However it can be considered "taboo" to some if you don't "fit the mold" of what they consider goth, grunge, emo, etc. I find it an oxy-moron to fight to be accepted as how you are, yet also telling others that they're not doing it right.
SO, let's start from the get go. I'll take myself as an example; the summer going into high school is when I truly explored what alternative fashion was and had the opportunity to build my wardrobe without the pressure of my peers watching my wardrobe slowly shift.
To start, get your staple pieces. Head to your local thrift stores and budget-friendly stores. You're looking for plain black tank tops, pants and skirts. These will be your starting pieces that you add on to. Stay away from patterns as they limit what you can wear together.
From here you can build up your accessories. Its what really makes your wardrobe come together. Think of a ripped sweater piece to wear over your tank top. Chains, necklaces, studded bracelets...all of this is what will elevate your wardrobe. Beanies are a great go-to for hats. Studs, lace, chains, rips, leather...all great accents to add to your plain tank top and skirt or pants.
Now for shoes! Shoes are where you will want to spend some money. Still, start at thrift stores. About half of my wicked boots and platforms are from second hand stores! Converse of course are a staple, also platforms are a safe go-to. Your first pair of shoes I suggest a black pair of converse. Then get yourself a pair of boots. I wear boots with EVERYTHING. Skirts, pants, dressed. They just complete my look. Your shoes can also be a focus point in your outfits. Go for studs, chains and such when browsing booths & shoes. Lots of people buy plain shoes/boots and then decorate them their selves!
Don't be afraid to re purpose what you already have in your closet. Especially if you're going for the grunge aesthetic.
Why does thrifting work!?
You should learn to love thrifting and visit them often, you probably won't find something EVERY time you go, but over a few months, you will be surprised with what you have built in your closet while staying on a budget. You might only find a hat one visit, then a pair of cool pants the next...the trick is to go often. (Weekly, I suggest)
Again, thrift sores work. It's because there are people who want to venture out in the alternative world, but then decide its not for them. So, they buy full price pieces, and then they donate them after one wear. Its an actual gold mind. (Also FB Marketplace)
The key is to be consistent and understand it takes time.
5 Take away points:
- Get a black tank top/top and black bottoms
- Get a shoe that works with anything
- Accessories can be worn with different outfits to create an alternative feel
- Thrift stores should be visited often (FB Marketplace, D-Pop, Poshmart, etc)
- Re use your old clothes. Add chains, studs rips and tears