Be Uncool, It’s Cool
Be cooler than the crows - dare to stand out. Choose something bold, something different. Embrace daring patterns and unique textures with a touch of completely personal creativity. Being uncool is the new cool.
“Normality is a paved road: It’s comfortable to walk, but no flowers grow on it.” - Vincent van Gogh
We’re constantly bombarded with aesthetics, but the truly chic are those who carve out their own unique style. The words ‘own’ and ‘unique’ are key here, and they matter. Ironically, some of the most popular and so-called ‘cool’ aesthetics are the ones that embrace the uncool - like grandpa core and dad core. These styles have taken over, surpassing trends like coastal grandma and cowgirl because they perfectly capture a sense of unique awkwardness. Chunky sneakers, vintage pants, ties, and windbreakers - staples of these cores - are now what make a person stand out. As people lean towards aesthetics that challenge the norm, the essence of cool increasingly lies in embracing a personal, distinctive style rather than mass-produced trends. Venturing into this territory might feel like stepping into the realm of the uncool, but that’s where the magic happens.
Some artists aren’t afraid to be labeled ‘uncool’; in fact, they embrace it. Instead of shying away from the different and unique, they immerse themselves in it. Let’s be honest: when we think of a truly memorable outfit, it’s usually something distinctly original, something we haven’t seen before - so memorable that it turns from uncool to cool. The coolest outfits are those that defy the norm, unafraid to sink or swim; they simply exist. Their boldness inspires us, from celebrities to artists to everyday people. Bella Hadid, often credited with popularizing dadcore and grandpa core, continues to inspire with her distinctive style (although one might argue whether these are still unique given their soaring popularity - but that’s a topic for another time). And then there’s Adam Sandler, who has consistently defied fashion norms with his oversized-everything look, staying true to his character and earning the title of one of the coolest. It’s not just celebrities who own their personal style. Jazzelle Zanaughtti, model and style influencer, is known for her truly unique looks that defy norms and demonstrate raw creativity through her bold mixing of patterns, colors, and textures in both makeup and fashion. She’s a breath of fresh air in a world of repetitive, fast fashion cycles.
Jazzelle Zanaughtti, photographed by Hannah Sider, IG @uglyworldwide
Speaking of fresh air, some artists inject a pop of quirkiness into their style without fully committing to an entire aesthetic. Gab Bois, for example, creates experimental fashion using unexpected materials, pushing the boundaries of what’s considered normal in fashion. If you enjoy her work, there are many others out there. Instagram accounts like @uglydesign curate unique content from artists, highlighting the most unconventional designs.
Gab Bois, unique headbands, IG @gabbois
Fashion is deeply connected to its communities, and there are countless underground aesthetics where alternative fashion is embraced in a totally unique and specific way. Whether you’re looking to join one of these communities or simply get inspired, there’s plenty to explore. Modern aesthetics like Avant Apocalypse and Bimbocore are emerging today, creating their own distinct subcultures. Looking back, we’re all familiar with influential fashion movements like Harajuku (Decora), Techwear, and Cyberpop. Though vastly different, these aesthetics weren’t mass-produced or spoon-fed to us by social media; they arose from a desire for uniqueness and individuality within a community. What mainstream culture might initially view as uncool, these groups proudly embrace - and eventually, the world catches on. They’re not just setting trends; they’re starting movements. Harajuku fashion, once questioned by many, is now celebrated for its uniqueness and cultural significance. Being different isn’t always easy, but those who dare are building strong communities.
Ultimately, fashion is subjective, and so is coolness. The wonderful thing about fashion is that there’s no right or wrong (regardless of what your grandma says about those ripped jeans). This is just a gentle nudge to inspire you. Fashion is a tool for self-expression, and sometimes it’s good to push yourself out of your comfort zone - to expand your horizons. God knows that applies to me, too, often reaching for the same two t-shirts on repeat. Most importantly, standing out isn’t easy - it’s quite scary, in fact. But let these success stories inspire you. Discover yourself through fashion, and remember: only you can decide what’s truly cool or uncool. In the end, being yourself is cool. So, be uncool, be unique, be you, and be cool. Walk the road less travelled and watch those flowers grow.
