How To Dress Indie

By: Sylvie Branch

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Guidelines for how to dress indie are just that, guidelines. Indie style is all about being cool, relaxed and different. Don’t overdo it, or try too hard to look indie. Indie comes from within. Okay, see now that statement was trying too hard, don’t do that.

To dress Indie you will need:

Comfortable clothing
Chill attitude
Great taste in music

Basic T-shirts are your clothing staple. A collection of plain T's in a variety of colors are the go-to look. Vintage T's from thrift shops or from off beat indie bands are another great choice. Look on your favorite indie bands web or social networking page to see if they offer merchandise. This is a good way to encourage and support your favorite musicians while assuring that you will not be wearing the same outfit as your friends.
Jeans don't have to be skinny jeans to look indie, just keep them simple. Steer clear of carpenter pants or droopy drawers.
Corduroy is an offbeat choice that works well with an indie wardrobe. Look for pairs at the local thrift shop or discount store.
Comfortable shoes are an indie look. Go for classic Converse All-Stars, low or high tops, or a pair of slip on Vans. Moccasins are a quirky choice that are harder to find, but well worth the search.
Flannel shirts can be worn over your T-shirts. These flannel plaid shirts can also be worn buttoned up for a dressier indie style.
Indie hair styles are just casual. Choose a low maintenance style that works for you. Try not to copy everyone else's hair cut in order to appear indie.
Find a jacket at the thrift store. Anything goes here as long as it suits you. Look for a vintage leather jacket, old peacoats, or members only jackets. It should fit you and not be oversized.
Some guys can get away with funky old man cardigans. Others need to just give them to an indie girl. They don't work for everyone. Same goes for ponchos. While a poncho can be a indie look, it takes a special fella to pull it off.
Steer clear of retail shops like Abercrombie, American Eagle, Hollister and Aeropostale. Even if you find their clothing at the thrift shop, resist.
Hone your music tastes. Listen to the indie bands. Search online for cool offbeat musicians. Go to local shows and coffee shops. Then and only then can you truly be indie.