The concept of the hipster has generated a lot of curiosity in recent years, and in this article, we are trying to define what a hipster is. They are much more than a cultural group, far more than a trend or fashion.
Recently, a current has emerged in which anyone who considers themselves independent in some aspect of their life—whether in thought, profession, artistic, cultural, or musical interests, in political beliefs, in environmental concerns, or in quite particular “protest” affiliations—identifies with this term.
Who are they?
They are independent in the way they dress, in the types of accessories they use, in the decoration that characterizes them, and in the design that predominates in their lives. They call themselves hipsters.
A custom has also developed around discussing them. Everyone uses this term here and there, and in many cases, people do not even know what it truly means.
For this reason, we continue trying to define the hipster in their multiple facets.
We only know that this term encompasses an entire culture and is not used solely to refer to certain people. Most are young adults of a specific social class (in Colombia) with conditions that make them similar, as occurs with any group.
We also use it to refer to places, spaces, types of activities, atmospheres, urban fashions, and distinctive clothing and accessories.
Above all, it is used similarly to terms that have defined generations—hippies, punks, yuppies, yunkies, among others—to denote a particular lifestyle characteristic of a specific moment in history.
A Subculture
Hipsters are a subculture. In sociological terms, this means they are not a predominant cultural group but a cultural proposal emerging from mainstream cultural groups. This indicates that from the beginning, they go against the current—or better yet, they create their own current.
They are not truly rebellious, but they do have a different sensitivity and seek an alternative lifestyle in every sense. They are independent, autonomous, and free in thought and action, which inevitably recalls the hippie movement of the 1960s.
Are hipsters the hippies of this new century? Not exactly. Rather, they are similar cultural groups in that they propose new alternatives and ways of thinking that leave a legacy for the generations witnessing their birth and growth.
They also share the goal of being independent from every stereotype of thought and movement. Their origins and ideologies tend to differ.
In fact, hipsters heavily rely on media to support their independence—something quite criticized by the hippie movement, which sought to live away from cultural influence.
They call themselves hipsters to honor their independent essence because in the 1940s, the term “hip” was used to describe musicians who enjoyed and understood independent jazz.
This period marks the first hipsters. However, the concept has transcended over time and no longer refers solely to musical trends by independent groups.
Modern hipsters have taken that independence much further: they are independent in thought.
Many have chosen independence in work and finances as a lifestyle, preferring to work as freelancers or in fields such as advertising and marketing, where they can fully express their creativity.
For all these reasons, we continue trying to define the hipster through their style, habits, and social spaces.
They Like a Little Bit of Everything
They are also free regarding fashion trends and are not bound by specific colors or styles. They like a little bit of everything, and perhaps the only concept that defines them is their particular interest in vintage: dressing and styling themselves with elements from past eras that had been forgotten.
In their personal image, they often adopt vintage-style looks. Men, for example, grow mustaches that they spend hours grooming and styling, reminiscent of historical figures or great emperors. This element has become an icon for the group.
Even this style is reflected in graphic materials, advertising, and female accessories, perhaps as a symbol of gender independence. They are neither sexist nor feminist; they believe in being independent of any stereotype, including the condition of being male or female.
When riding their bicycles, they are free from traffic, vehicle restrictions, and mass transport, maintaining their essence.
Their nightlife spots are also “different,” combining modern elements with vintage trends.
They have a calm and harmonious lifestyle, avoiding branded products and mixing elements and styles to create their own unique style.
They organize their own festivals, independent fairs for music, art, and design. Some brands have developed marketing strategies targeting this group, such as Hendricks, with their secret tasting events and brand activations.
The Pursuit of Independence
This raises the question: if they are a subculture that moves away from the mainstream,
Why do they consume mass products like Apple?
Why do their festivals feature trending artists and attract hipsters from all social classes?
Why, while fighting for their independence, are they followers and influencers on social media?
All of this is part of their pursuit of independence and identity affirmation, which harms no one and reflects the mix of styles they propose.
For all these reasons, we can continue attempting to define the hipster by observing how their independence and style combine to create a unique identity.
Hipsters are much more than a cultural group or a fashion trend: they are a visual concept, a brand image, interesting, colorful, and appealing, demonstrating their ability to make decisions and their independence in a world where personal judgment seems to be losing relevance.
