Reason for Warning: This page contains mentions of suicide and self-harm.
Fashioncore (sometimes also written as Fashionxcore or FXC) emerged in the early 2000s, with its stylistic roots traceable to the late 1990s and early 2000s Hardcore Punk and related music scenes. The term "Fashioncore" initially originated as a label used within the hardcore scene to describe bands that, in addition to their music, emphasized a distinct, often dark or stylized aesthetic. This aesthetic drew inspiration from influences such as horror punk.[1]
This emphasis on visual style within the hardcore scene contributed to the development of a broader style and associated youth culture. Individuals adopting this look were sometimes referred to as "Fashioncore kids." However, the use of "Fashioncore" was primarily confined to the hardcore and related music scenes. Mainstream media and music publications often mislabeled this style as "emo," leading to the emergence of the term "new emo kids" or "fake emos" to distinguish between this fashion-conscious hardcore-influenced look and the more nuanced and traditionally understood emo subculture.
The distinction lays in the portrayal of emo archetypes. While traditional emo was associated with sensitivity, introspection, and intelligence, the "fake emo" or Fashioncore style often exaggerated melancholy and incorporated elements stereotypically associated with goth subculture, such as self-harm and suicide, which were often contested within the goth scene itself.
In the mid-2000s, this style gained wider popularity, though complexities arose. While "fake emo" helped spread Fashioncore's influence, some within the "fake emo" scene began to distance themselves, identifying more strongly with either the Fashioncore or the emerging scene subcultures, as their musical tastes and cultural affiliations diverged from the earlier hardcore roots (citing bands such as Tokio Hotel and Avril Lavigne as an example of these more distanced trends).
The scene subculture, known for its frequent adoption and mixing of various fashion trends, played a role in the further evolution of Fashioncore. This influence is seen in developments such as specific hairstyles (e.g., "sun" hairstyles for boys), the introduction of angelbite piercings, and particular hair dyeing techniques (e.g., zebra or leopard patterns).
History[]
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Fashion[]
Fashioncore style, which developed alongside the early 2000s post-hardcore and alternative rock scene, is characterized by specific clothing, hair, and accessory choices. These elements, while sometimes drawing on influences from earlier styles, became more pronounced within this subculture.
For men, a prominent feature was long, straight bangs, styled to avoid obstructing vision. Hair was often professionally cut with attention to detail and sometimes dyed in sections, frequently black with bleached areas. For women, hair also featured long, side-swept bangs, often secured with a hair clip. Hair was commonly teased to create volume at the back of the head and dyed in various colors. Colored hair extensions, sometimes with patterns like stripes, zebra print, or leopard print, were also used. Hair accessories such as bows were typical.
Men's attire commonly included tight black jeans, boots, and tight-fitting band t-shirts. Hoodies were often slim-fitting. Belts with large buckles were common, and bandanas or scarves were sometimes used as hair accessories. Brands associated with this style included Atticus, Bleeding Star, Famous, Vans, Converse All Star, and Drop Dead.
Women initially adopted a similar style to men. Later, influences from the emerging scene subculture led to the incorporation of dresses, punk-style skirts, ripped tights, and footwear like boots or Converse/Vans. Distinctive hairstyles remained a key feature, and brands such as Hell Bunny became popular.
Common accessories and symbols, used by both men and women, included diamond motifs, brass knuckles, stars, hearts, skulls, cupcakes, Gloomy Bear, Skeletanimals, and Hello Kitty. Bone prints (influenced by Horror Punk) and stripes were also prevalent. The scene subculture introduced the motif of a melting Chanel symbol, though its popularity was limited.
While not mandatory for men, some did use eyeliner. Makeup was more common for women, typically featuring dark eyeshadow and nail polish, though variations were possible.
Criticism[]
The term "Fashioncore" has been subject to criticism and debate, particularly within the hardcore punk scene. Initially, it arose as a derogatory term used by some within the hardcore community to label bands and individuals perceived as prioritizing their appearance and fashion over musical substance. This criticism often targeted bands that incorporated elements of a stylized or "dark" aesthetic, sometimes drawing from horror punk influences.
Critics argued that this emphasis on appearance detracted from the perceived authenticity and seriousness of hardcore. Some definitions from the 2000s in sources like Urban Dictionary reflect this viewpoint, characterizing "Fashioncore" as associated with those who prioritize their look (e.g., studded belts, specific hairstyles) over the music itself.[2]
This critique sometimes extended to the music. For example, some have expressed negative views on the musical output of bands associated with the Fashioncore trend, describing it as generic or lacking in substance.[3] This perspective suggests that the focus on image may have come at the expense of musical quality in some cases.
However, this interpretation has been contested. Some within the scene, including members of bands labeled as "Fashioncore," have argued that the term is misapplied and that artistic expression through fashion should not be seen as inherently contradictory to musical integrity. They argue that bands and individuals who experiment with their image are not necessarily less committed to their music.[4]
Music[]
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Gallery[]
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References[]
- ↑ "Fashioncores" on fuckyeahurbantribes.blogspot.com (in Spanish)
- ↑ "Fashioncore" on urbandictionary.com
- ↑ "It's Been 18 Years Since the Release of Eighteen Visions’ 'Vanity' and It Still Sucks" on thehardtimes.net
- ↑ "Turnstile – Glow On" on diyconspiracy.net