Home » Music » Indie/Alternative Music » Alternative 101

Alternative 101

© David Reid

Recently I moved to the "alternative capital," Iowa City. Yes, Iowa City, Iowa. No, Iowa City has not and probably will not become the next Seattle but for people living the alternative lifestyle as described below this is the capital city.

Dress

This is the first area which allows for some flexibility and originality. This area can include a mix of eras and styles including dirty jeans, '60's colors, and dark metal/gothic stylings.

Tattoo

A minimum of one tattoo but preferably large areas of your body should be covered by tattoos. Artwork of your choice. Piercing one earring won't cut it here. To truly qualify either a nose or tongue must be pierced.

Hair

Here is the second area where you have your great flexibility. The shaved head is always an option while others will opt for a dye job. Occasionally, the rat tail is acceptable as well.

Well, if you haven't figured it out yet, I don't care much for the alternative lifestyle. Not that I think people are weirdos or something but that it's apparent far too often it's about being cool. I could of just as easily written "Prep 101" and the point would stay the same. These lifestyle's have become about image, not true identity.

The copyright of the article Alternative 101 in Indie/Alternative Music is owned by . Permission to republish Alternative 101 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.