Hipster Defined

Beatniks, hippies, bobos, and now hipsters. Hipsters are the latest incarnation of the hip and trendy people. What exactly is a hipster? According to Urban Dictionary* hipsters are, as follows -

a subculture of men and women, typically (but not necessarily) in their 20's and 30's

conformists within their own subculture

value independent thinking, counter-culture, progressive politics; tend to be radically open minded

appreciate art, indie rock, creativity, intelligence, witty banter

obscure, elitist tastes in music

typically urban; greatest concentration in major cosmopolitan cities

reject mainstream consumerism

tend to take up causes; often socially minded

reject mainstream ideal ie: muscular, athletic, all-American male, or culturally vapid, fake blond, overly tanned, sorority girl

edgy, ironic, fashion style ie: vintage and thrift store inspired fashion, tight jeans, leggings, mismatched clothing, old school sneakers, thick rimmed glasses, tee shirts with ironic sayings, androgynous hairstyles

typically well-educated, often with liberal arts degrees, or degrees in maths and sciences

consequently, many have careers in music, art, or fashion industries

typically hang out at fashionable coffee shops, indie rock shows, and hipster dance clubs

shop for food at stores like Whole Foods or farmer's markets - often vegetarian or vegan - prefer organic or Fair Trade fruits and vegetables - enjoy a variety of ethnic foods

may ride a fixed gear bicycle or hybrid car

network through social media ie: Facebook and/or Twitter

*adapted from Urban Dictionary

What will the next big cultural movement be? Your guess is as good as mine. But we know for sure there will be one; because that's the way society is. It's always interesting to speculate. Read my take on our conflicting needs to fit in and stand out, in tomorrow's post, "Hipster Maligned."

C