I AM YOUR ALIEN

It’s human nature to want to be the line leader, the first, the winner. Everyone wants to be a trendsetter, even if they don’t want to admit it. But not everyone is cut out for it.

Uniqueness and approval hardly go hand in hand in society. Many have said it’s “lonely at the top,” but when it comes to the world of fashion, it truly is.

It takes courage to be bold and bring a unique outfit to life, especially in the public eye. And when it feels like people just “don’t get it,” what else is there to do but create your own society?

The Club Kids of New York brought this idea to life, and remnants of their influence continue to be seen in today’s fashion world.

Composed of club sensations and big personalities, the Club Kids were young in age and daring in looks. With foundations largely based in the Queer community, notable members included the It Twins, Jennytalia (Jenny Dembrow), Richie Rich and Amanda Lepore. In the late 80s and early 90s they were known for their bold and striking outfits, which were considered scandalous and “too much” for the time. The personal values and beliefs of this group were often thought to be out of line with the rest of society and dubious in nature.

With gender fluidity and open sexuality at the forefront of the organization, the public had their reservations about the group. Despite their reputation, the Club Kids made a lasting impact on the local fashion scene, inspiring innumerable style, makeup and hair looks. Many news outlets now refer to the group as “the first influencers,” as they had a tremendous effect on thepublic at the height of their popularity.

The influence of the Club Kids first spread through the underground club scene, where trends would steadily make their way up to mainstream bars and the rest of society. The group encouraged individualism and personality via sourcing your own materials.

Copying other artists, replicating, or taking too much inspiration from elsewhere was frowned upon, as authentic self-expression was valued above all else.

Keeping the movement underground was a priority, and many of the group’s parties were impromptu and unplanned. Train tracks, old restaurants and many other uninhabited areas served as a stomping ground for the Club Kids. Only at the height of their success did they throw open parties at multiple popular venues across the United States, where they sought to recruit new members.

The Club Kids avoided spaces in which the public would judge or attempt to replicate their style. They preferred to let loose in a judgment-free setting with other artists, as most creatives do.

Style: Brandon Roberts, Ava Fawcett

Glam: Evan Yalowitz, Ateeyah Abdul-Wasi

Photo: Megan Rabaut, Olivia Jordahl

Words: Halina Newland

Models: Willow Symonds, Ashna Karikalan, Jovana Nagj, Farhan Hasan

Spread Designers: Jill Moreno, Gracie McClure