What is Scene Fashion? The 2000s Subculture Style Guide
What is this aesthetic? This subculture was a youth subculture that peaked in the mid-to-late 2000s, characterized by colorful hair, heavy eyeliner, band merchandise, and a distinctive combination of emo, punk, and pop influences. The style emphasized individuality while paradoxically creating a highly recognizable uniform.
Scene emerged primarily through Myspace and early social media, where teenagers showcased dramatic selfies and connected over shared music tastes. While the original movement movement has faded, its influence continues in alternative fashion and periodic revivals among those nostalgic for 2000s aesthetics.
This guide explores this aesthetic history, key style elements, and how aesthetic aesthetics can be incorporated into contemporary alternative looks.
Scene History and Origins
Cultural Context
Scene developed from specific 2000s conditions:
- Myspace era: Social media selfie culture
- Post-hardcore music: Bands like Bring Me the Horizon, Asking Alexandria
- Emo evolution: Brighter, more colorful than traditional emo
- Internet communities: Online connections over music and style
Timeline
- 2004-2006: Early aesthetic develops from emo
- 2007-2009: Peak aesthetic years
- 2010-2012: Decline as Myspace fades
- 2020s: Nostalgia revival, influenced modern e-girl/e-boy
Scene vs. Emo
While related, aesthetic and emo had distinct differences:
| Aspect | Scene | Emo |
|---|---|---|
| Colors | Bright, neon, rainbow | Black, dark colors |
| Mood | Upbeat, energetic | Melancholic, emotional |
| Music | Electronic, pop-influenced | Traditional emo rock |
| Hair | Teased, colorful | Side-swept, usually black |
Key Scene Fashion Elements
Hair
Hair was the most dramatic aesthetic element:
- Teased/backcombed: Massive volume on top
- Straight underneath: Contrasting texture
- Bright colors: Neon pink, blue, green, purple
- Coontails: Striped extensions (controversial name)
- Side-swept bangs: Covering one eye
- Choppy layers: Razored, textured cuts
Makeup
- Heavy eyeliner: Thick, dramatic black
- Extended wings: Often very long
- Under-eye liner: Complete eye outline
- Colorful eyeshadow: Matching hair
- False lashes: Optional but common
Clothing
Tops:
- Band tees (often cut/modified)
- Skinny graphic tees
- Hoodies and zip-ups
- Hello Kitty and cartoon characters
Bottoms:
- Skinny jeans (essential)
- Bright colors or patterns
- Checkered prints
- Tutus and skirts over jeans
Footwear:
- Vans (checkered popular)
- Converse high-tops
- Ballet flats
- Combat boots
Accessories
- Hair bows: Large, often polka-dot
- Bandanas: Worn as headbands
- Plastic jewelry: Bright colored
- Kandi: Beaded bracelets
- Studded belts: Worn low
- Chokers: Various styles
Patterns and Motifs
- Leopard print
- Checkered/gingham
- Polka dots
- Stars
- Bows
- Cartoon characters
Scene Styling Guide
Classic Scene Look
- Teased, colorful hair with side bangs
- Heavy black eyeliner
- Band tee or graphic top
- Skinny jeans (bright or dark)
- Studded belt
- Vans or Converse
- Multiple accessories
Scene Hair Techniques
- Section top hair
- Backcomb vigorously at roots
- Hairspray each section
- Smooth outer layer
- Straighten bottom layers
- Set with strong-hold spray
Scene Makeup Steps
- Prime eyelids
- Apply eyeshadow (optional bright colors)
- Line upper lid thickly
- Create dramatic wing
- Line lower waterline
- Apply mascara heavily
Accessorizing
Scene relies on accessory layering:
- Stack multiple bracelets
- Layer necklaces
- Add hair clips and bows
- Chain belts or studded belts
Modern Scene Influence
E-Girl/E-Boy Connection
Scene directly influenced 2020s e-girl aesthetic:
- Heavy eyeliner tradition continues
- Colorful hair (though less teased)
- Internet-based community
- Mix of cute and dark elements
Incorporating Scene Elements Today
Modern takes on this style:
- Hair color: Bright colors without teasing
- Eyeliner: Graphic liner in this style
- Accessories: Nostalgic pieces like bows and chains
- Music merch: Band tees remain relevant
Scene Meets Contemporary Alternative
Mixing aesthetic with current styles:
- Scene hair with gothic harnesses
- Graphic liner with modern leather pieces
- Quality leather chokers upgrade plastic originals
- Chain belts in scene-inspired outfits
Quality Over Quantity
Modern approach to aesthetic aesthetics:
- Fewer, better-made accessories
- Leather replaces plastic
- Investment pieces instead of fast fashion
- Sustainable approach to alt fashion
Scene Revival Tips
- Start with one element (hair color or liner)
- Update cheap accessories with quality versions
- Mix with modern alternative pieces
- Keep energy playful but sophisticated
Embrace Scene Aesthetics
This 2000s style represented a specific moment in youth culture, but its core elements: self-expression through dramatic style, music community connection, and bold accessories: remain relevant in alternative fashion.
Modern takes on aesthetic swap plastic accessories for quality leather pieces and upgrade studded belts to chain belts, keeping the aesthetic's playful energy while adding sophistication and durability.
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