Is TikTok Reviving Grunge?
For all the Nirvana, Green Day, and Alice in Chains lovers, don’t worry: Grunge is not dead. In fact, TikTok may be the source of its comeback. My “For You Page” is filled with soft rock, eyeliner, baggy clothing, and 90’s pop culture.
Here are the few ways that TikTok is reviving the 90s “Grunge” era.
Bold Eyeliner
Many MUA’s and smaller creators have been showing off their bold eyeliner looks all over TikTok. They feature signature cat eyes, smokey under-eyes, plain eyeliner, etc. Eyeliner was a major grunge trend, especially in the music industry. A few popular cosmetic companies in the 90s were Mac, Wet n Wild, and Lip Smackers.
Soft Rock Sounds
Creators on Tik Tok have the power to create sounds that can be utilized by other users. When scrolling through my “For You Page,” I find that there are a lot of Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Oasis songs featured in the sounds. Soft rock had a major influence on the attitudes and fashion that came with the grunge era. One of the most influential icons from this era was Kurt Cobain (Nirvana).
90’s Pop Culture
90’s Pop Culture has become a major trend on TikTok. Many creators have been referencing or using sounds from popular 90’s movies and television shows. For example, Ten Things I Hate About You, Cruel Intentions, Edward Scissorhands, and She’s All That references have become popular TikTok sounds. Creators have even gone to the lengths of re-creating scenes, make-up, or outfits from 90’s popular culture.
Layering and Oversized Clothing
Many fashion trends for the younger generations begin on the telephone screen: nowadays, they are typically derived from TikTok. The oversized or “baggy” clothing trend has definitely made a comeback due to TikTok. To add, darker colors and distressed fabrics have begun trending as well. All of these styles were originated during the 90s grunge era. A few notable grunge fashion icons include Winona Ryder, Gwen Stefani, Liz Taylor, Johnny Depp, and Kurt Cobain.
Dr. Martens/Sneakers
Dr. Marten’s shoes and Converse sneakers have taken center stage! These shoe trends were extremely prominent in the ’90s especially pertaining to the Grunge era. Dr. Martens were seen all throughout popular culture and are now a classic shoe today. On TikTok, we have seen creators sporting their classic boot, Mary Jane’s, and other styles! To add, Converse sneakers are making a comeback! The classic Chuck Taylor was a popular shoe throughout the Grunge era and no surprise, they are popular again! Many fashion icons on TikTok have been promoting and wearing Converse again. The brand has taken many initiatives to collaborate with brands such as Carhart which has aided in reviving this Grunge trend.
Throughout history, we always see trends re-cycle themselves. As the world advances into the digital era it has become easier to follow the trends of the time. Tik Tok serves as a great platform for style inspiration. Ultimately, TikTok has revived the Grunge era; so go blast some Oasis and make that eyeliner bold!