Scene Kid 101: Your Ultimate Guide to Rocking the Scene Aesthetic

So, you want to be a scene kid? Welcome to the world of vibrant colors, bold self-expression, and a whole lot of attitude. The scene subculture, which peaked in the mid-2000s but continues to evolve, is all about individuality, music, and a unique sense of style. It’s more than just a look; it’s a way of life. This guide will take you through everything you need to know to embrace the scene aesthetic, from the iconic hair and makeup to the music and attitude. Let’s dive in!

## What Exactly *Is* a Scene Kid?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to *become* a scene kid, let’s define what it actually *is*. Scene culture is a youth subculture characterized by:

* **Distinctive Fashion:** Think bright colors, skinny jeans, band tees, and a whole lot of accessorizing.
* **Elaborate Hairstyles:** Big, teased hair with choppy layers and bold colors are a scene staple.
* **Expressive Makeup:** Eyeliner is your best friend! Heavy application is key, often paired with bright eyeshadow.
* **A Love for Music:** Scene kids are passionate about music, especially genres like metalcore, electronicore, and pop-punk.
* **A Strong Sense of Community:** Scene culture is all about connecting with like-minded individuals who share your interests and passions.
* **Internet Savvy:** The internet, particularly platforms like MySpace and LiveJournal in the past, and now Instagram and TikTok, have always been crucial for sharing scene fashion, music, and connecting with other scene kids.

## Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Scene Kid

Ready to transform into the ultimate scene kid? Follow these steps to nail the look, the attitude, and the lifestyle.

### 1. The Hair: The Crown Jewel of Scene Style

Your hair is arguably the most important element of the scene look. It’s all about volume, texture, and bold colors.

* **Get the Cut:** The classic scene haircut is characterized by choppy layers, often angled dramatically. Think short, choppy layers around the face and longer layers in the back. Visit a stylist who understands scene haircuts or bring reference photos. If you’re feeling brave, you can even attempt it yourself, but proceed with caution!
* **Tease, Tease, Tease:** Volume is key! Invest in a good teasing comb and learn how to tease your hair properly. Start by holding a section of hair straight up, then comb downwards towards the roots in short, quick strokes. Repeat until you achieve the desired volume. Don’t tease too harshly, as this can damage your hair.
* **Color is Your Friend:** Bright, unnatural colors are a must. Think neon pink, electric blue, vibrant green, or any combination thereof. You can go for all-over color, streaks, or even dip-dye your ends. Consider using semi-permanent dyes, as they’re less damaging to your hair and allow you to experiment with different colors more easily. Remember to bleach your hair beforehand if you’re using vibrant colors on dark hair.
* **Style with Product:** Hairspray is your best friend for holding that teased volume in place. Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep your hair looking its best all day long. Texturizing spray or mousse can also add extra volume and definition. Experiment with different products to find what works best for your hair type.
* **Accessorize:** Hair bows, headbands, and colorful hair clips can add an extra touch of scene flair to your look. Look for accessories with animal prints, stars, or other fun and quirky designs. Small plastic toys can also be incorporated into the hair.
* **Maintain Your Hair:** With all the teasing, dyeing, and styling, your hair will need some extra TLC. Use a deep conditioner regularly to keep your hair hydrated and prevent breakage. Avoid washing your hair too often, as this can strip it of its natural oils. Use dry shampoo in between washes to keep your hair looking fresh.

### 2. Makeup: Express Yourself with Bold Lines and Bright Colors

Scene makeup is all about making a statement. Eyeliner is essential, and bright eyeshadow colors are encouraged.

* **Eyeliner is Key:** Master the art of the winged eyeliner. Use a liquid or gel eyeliner for a precise line. Don’t be afraid to go thick and dramatic. Line both your upper and lower lash lines, and extend the line outwards to create a wing. Practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right away.
* **Bright Eyeshadow:** Choose eyeshadow colors that complement your hair and outfit. Bright pinks, blues, greens, and purples are all popular choices. Apply the eyeshadow to your eyelids, blending it outwards towards your brow bone. You can also use multiple colors to create a gradient effect.
* **Mascara:** Apply several coats of mascara to your upper and lower lashes to make your eyes pop. Consider using a volumizing mascara for extra impact.
* **Foundation and Concealer:** Use a foundation that matches your skin tone to create a smooth and even base. Conceal any blemishes or dark circles under your eyes. While some prefer a paler look, matching your natural skin tone is perfectly acceptable.
* **Blush:** Apply a rosy or peachy blush to the apples of your cheeks to add a touch of color to your face.
* **Lipstick or Lip Gloss:** Choose a lip color that complements your overall look. Bright pinks, reds, and nudes are all good options. Lip gloss can add a touch of shine and make your lips look fuller.
* **Don’t Forget the Details:** Consider adding small details like glitter eyeliner, colored mascara, or even drawing small stars or hearts near your eyes. These little touches can really elevate your scene look.

### 3. Fashion: Express Your Individuality Through Clothing

Scene fashion is all about expressing your personality through your clothing. Mix and match different styles and don’t be afraid to experiment.

* **Skinny Jeans:** Skinny jeans are a scene staple. Black, dark wash, or bright colors are all great choices. Ripped or distressed jeans add an extra touch of edge. While super skinny jeans were the norm, slightly looser fits are becoming more accepted.
* **Band Tees:** Show off your love for music by wearing band tees. Choose tees from your favorite scene bands or bands that you think are cool. Cut up or alter your band tees to make them more unique.
* **Graphic Tees:** Graphic tees with quirky designs, cartoon characters, or ironic slogans are also popular. Look for tees with bold colors and eye-catching graphics.
* **Hoodies and Jackets:** Hoodies and jackets are essential for layering. Zip-up hoodies with band logos or graphic designs are a great choice. Leather jackets or denim jackets can add a touch of rock and roll to your look.
* **Skirts and Dresses:** While skinny jeans are the most common choice, skirts and dresses can also be incorporated into your scene wardrobe. Look for skirts and dresses with bold prints, bright colors, or edgy details. Tutus were a popular option in the early days of the style.
* **Accessories are Key:** Accessorize your outfits with belts, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. Studded belts, chain necklaces, and colorful bracelets are all popular choices. Don’t be afraid to layer multiple accessories for a more dramatic effect. Large hair bows, fingerless gloves and colorful beaded necklaces are all great additions.
* **Shoes:** Scene kids often wear sneakers, combat boots, or platform shoes. Converse sneakers, Vans, and Doc Martens are all popular choices. Look for shoes with bright colors, bold patterns, or edgy details.
* **DIY Your Clothes:** Customize your clothing by adding patches, pins, or studs. Cut up your jeans, rip your shirts, or add your own unique designs. DIY is a great way to express your creativity and make your clothes stand out.

### 4. Music: The Soundtrack to Your Scene Life

Music is a fundamental part of scene culture. Discover new bands and genres and immerse yourself in the scene music scene.

* **Explore Scene Genres:** Some popular genres within the scene subculture include:
* **Metalcore:** Bands like Bring Me the Horizon, Asking Alexandria, and The Devil Wears Prada.
* **Electronicore:** Bands like Attack Attack!, I See Stars, and Enter Shikari.
* **Pop-Punk:** Bands like Blink-182, Paramore, and Fall Out Boy (though purists might debate their complete scene-ness).
* **Post-Hardcore:** Bands like A Day to Remember, Sleeping With Sirens, and Pierce the Veil.
* **Other Influences:** Many scene kids also listen to electro-pop, crunkcore, and other alternative genres.
* **Discover New Bands:** Explore online music platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube to discover new bands. Check out music blogs and websites that focus on scene music. Attend local concerts and shows to see up-and-coming bands.
* **Support Your Favorite Bands:** Buy their albums, go to their concerts, and spread the word about their music. Supporting your favorite bands is a great way to contribute to the scene community.
* **Create Playlists:** Create playlists of your favorite scene songs and share them with your friends. This is a great way to introduce others to the music you love and discover new music yourself.
* **Attend Concerts and Festivals:** Going to concerts and festivals is a great way to experience scene music live and connect with other scene kids. Check out local venues and festivals that feature scene bands.

### 5. Attitude: Confidence and Self-Expression

Being a scene kid is about more than just the look; it’s also about having the right attitude.

* **Be Confident:** Confidence is key to pulling off the scene look. Embrace your individuality and don’t be afraid to express yourself. Walk tall, make eye contact, and own your style.
* **Be Yourself:** Don’t try to be someone you’re not. The scene subculture is all about individuality, so be true to yourself and express your unique personality.
* **Be Creative:** Express your creativity through your clothing, makeup, hair, and music. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things.
* **Be Passionate:** Be passionate about the things you love, whether it’s music, fashion, or art. Let your passion shine through in everything you do.
* **Be Open-Minded:** Be open to new ideas and experiences. The scene subculture is all about embracing diversity and accepting others for who they are.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Stand Out:** Scene kids are known for their unique style and willingness to stand out from the crowd. Don’t be afraid to be different and express your individuality.
* **Challenge Conventions:** The scene subculture often challenges societal norms and conventions. Don’t be afraid to question the status quo and express your opinions.

### 6. The Online Presence: Connecting with the Scene Community

In the digital age, having an online presence is crucial for connecting with other scene kids and sharing your style.

* **Social Media:** Create profiles on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Tumblr. Share photos of your outfits, makeup, and hair. Follow other scene kids and interact with their content.
* **Use Relevant Hashtags:** Use relevant hashtags like #scene, #scenekid, #scenestyle, #scenemakeup, and #scenehair to reach a wider audience. This will help other scene kids find your content and connect with you.
* **Join Online Communities:** Join online communities and forums dedicated to scene culture. This is a great way to connect with other scene kids, share your experiences, and learn new things.
* **Create Content:** Create your own content, such as tutorials, reviews, or vlogs. Share your knowledge and expertise with the scene community. This will help you establish yourself as a leader in the scene.
* **Engage with Others:** Interact with other scene kids by commenting on their posts, participating in discussions, and offering support. Building relationships with others in the community is essential.
* **Be Authentic:** Be authentic and genuine in your online interactions. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Let your personality shine through in your content and interactions.
* **Stay Up-to-Date:** Stay up-to-date on the latest trends and news in the scene subculture. Follow scene influencers and bloggers to stay in the know.

### 7. Evolving the Scene: Embracing Modern Influences

The scene subculture, while rooted in the mid-2000s, is not static. It continues to evolve and incorporate new influences.

* **Embrace Nu-Scene:** “Nu-scene” refers to a more modern interpretation of the classic scene aesthetic. It often incorporates elements of other subcultures, such as goth, emo, and even e-girl/e-boy styles.
* **Experiment with New Aesthetics:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with new aesthetics and incorporate them into your scene style. This will help you keep your look fresh and unique.
* **Incorporate Modern Music:** Expand your musical horizons and explore new genres that resonate with you. Incorporate modern music into your playlists and discover new bands.
* **Be Inclusive:** The scene subculture should be inclusive and welcoming to everyone. Embrace diversity and accept others for who they are.
* **Focus on Self-Expression:** Ultimately, being a scene kid is about expressing yourself and being true to yourself. Don’t let anyone tell you how to dress, act, or feel. Embrace your individuality and let your personality shine through.

## Common Mistakes to Avoid

* **Trying Too Hard:** The scene look should appear effortless and natural. Avoid trying too hard to conform to the stereotype.
* **Being a Copycat:** Don’t simply copy other scene kids’ styles. Develop your own unique style and express your individuality.
* **Being Judgmental:** Avoid judging others for their style or music preferences. The scene subculture is all about acceptance and inclusivity.
* **Ignoring Personal Hygiene:** Maintaining good personal hygiene is essential, regardless of your style. Make sure to shower regularly, brush your teeth, and take care of your skin and hair.
* **Being Rude or Disrespectful:** Treat others with respect, regardless of their style or background. Being rude or disrespectful will not make you a better scene kid.
* **Forgetting the Music:** The scene is nothing without its music. Remember to explore and support the music that defines the subculture.

## Conclusion: Embrace Your Inner Scene Kid

Being a scene kid is about more than just the clothes, the hair, and the makeup. It’s about embracing your individuality, expressing your creativity, and connecting with like-minded individuals. So, go ahead and unleash your inner scene kid! Don’t be afraid to experiment, have fun, and be yourself. The scene subculture is waiting for you.