SUBCULTURE & THE MEANING OF STYLE

I found this week's lecture really interesting, discussing the attributes of different subcultures. The 2 case studies Nick included were, the Beats (1950s America) and Punk (1970s Britain). I found the whole lecture so engaging, looking at the mainstream/square values vs the contrasting subcultural values. This week's task is to define what a subculture is using at least one academic source, and then to produce a visual moodboard for a subculture of my choice. I will of course link all of my lecture notes at the bottom of the blog (warning there is a lot!). Side note for future reference - I found Allen Ginsberg particularly inspiring (we watched a youtube reading of 'HOWL').

A subculture is a minority group which goes against what is considered mainstream culture - the prominent media, social and corporate interests, the dominant ideology etc. Dick Hebdige discusses how subcultures represent 'noise' and interfere with the order of society. He states that breaking linguistic and ideological 'rules' can cause great disorder to society - almost a blockage in conformity. He then goes on to mention the ways in which subcultures break certain authorised codes in society, and when broken this has considerable power to provoke and disturb. Subcultures are almost seen as 'freaks' and unnatural, in the ways they break dress codes, behavioural codes, break the law, the differences in class etc. 

Here I have looked at the Hippie subculture. The movement of the 1960s did not conform with the order of society and believed in absolute freedom. Nakedness was celebrated, shopping at jumble sales and charity shops for pre worn items, old military clothing, wearing clothing of all ethnic styles all came together to create a unique and individual style. Folk music was a heavy attribute, as were all messages which promoted peace and love. The movement created a platform for social change, for all to see.