Hipsters

Hipsters are a subculture commonly associated with urban, educated young adults who value alternative fashion, independent music, and a retro or vintage aesthetic. The term originated in the United States to describe “hip” or aware people in the mid-20th century, but the contemporary revival began in the late 1990s and early 2000s, spreading through North American and European cities. The label is used both descriptively and critically and reflects tastes that aim to contrast with mainstream consumer culture.

Typical markers include thrifted or vintage clothing, thick-rimmed glasses, carefully groomed facial hair, and a preference for artisanal or locally produced goods. Diet and lifestyle elements often emphasize craft coffee, microbreweries, vinyl records, bicycle commuting, and small independent shops over mass-market brands. Social life centers on culturally creative neighborhoods and venues such as coffeehouses, record stores, galleries, and local markets.

Geographically, hipster associations are strongest in dense urban areas and gentrifying districts that host start-ups, indie musicians, and design firms. Notable media depictions emphasize authenticity, individualism, and a DIY ethos, though critics argue the lifestyle has become commodified and market-driven, influencing trends in fashion, food, and real estate.

Criticism and interpretation vary. Some view hipsters as a genuine, evolving subculture with its own values; others argue the term functions as a stereotype or pejorative that masks deeper social dynamics, including class, taste hierarchies, and the impact of gentrification on urban communities. Scholarly discussions often focus on authenticity, cultural capital, and the role of social media in shaping the phenomenon.