"The Hipster Handbook" defines a hipster as "one who possesses tastes, social attitudes, and opinions deemed cool by the cool ... walks among the masses in daily life but is not a part of them and shuns or reduces to kitsch anything held dear by the mainstream ... ideally possesses no more than 2 percent body fat." You know the type: Their iPods are stocked with , and , and they often accessorize with square eyeglasses and can be found working at an indie record store in Williamsburg. Whether one is actually a hipster or just an avid supporter (like myself), everyone can learn a thing or two from this underrated style.
Hipster fashion is a reflection of counter-culture, associated with liberal political views and a strong admiration for the 's literature and lifestyle. Each outfit seems to make a statement while maintaining an effortless look of "cool" at the same time.
But how does one imitate such a get up when individuality is at the crux of hipster culture? The best places to start are the nearest Salvation Army or Goodwill. Though you may have to search for a while, these two indie Meccas are the epitome of hipster style. For low prices you can find retro T-shirts, records, accessories and kitschy furniture. Could there be a better way to spend a languid Saturday afternoon? For many hipsters, the answer would be a resounding no.
Look for worn-out skinny jeans, tight hoodie sweatshirts, and striped fitted sweaters to perfect the look. Hipster feet are usually adorned in old sneakers tattooed with a black Sharpie. Flannel shirts and thick thermals are reminiscent of 's '90s grunge, and thrift stores provide these items in various sizes and colors. While a men's size may provide an interesting and oversized edge to your outfit, especially in combination with skinny jeans, those Vandy girls who prefer a more fitted look should limit their search to the women's section.
For higher-end hipster apparel, makes men's and women's T-shirts and sweatshirts with designs such as skulls, mug shots and cars.
Though the Vanderbubble houses more preps than hipsters, hipster style echoes the alternative youth culture's distaste for large corporations' callous working conditions. So, for a fresh twist on your wardrobe, why not un-pop that collar, blast some Seattle Sound and throw on a pair of retro sunglasses? Variety is the spice of life, and Vanderbilt could use an infusion of a few more hipster-clad students just to keep things interesting.
