How to do Indie Sleaze (aka grunge) today
Indie Sleaze, eh? A fun one! It's all about embracing that slightly dishevelled, rebellious vibe but with a modern, refined twist. We're not aiming for pure early 2000s landfill chic, but more a sophisticated, curated chaos, alright?
Here's my take on achieving Indie Sleaze in 2025, alongside some brands that can elevate the look:
The Core Elements (and how to modernise them):
The Foundation: Confidence (and a bit of attitude!) First and foremost, this look is about owning it. Don't feel like you need to be perfectly on-trend. It's the attitude that sells it!
Mixing High & Low: This is key. Think a vintage band tee paired with designer denim or a thrifted slip dress under a luxury leather jacket. It's the contrast that creates the interest.
The Uniform: Let's break it down into key pieces:
The Band Tee (Updated): No more oversized, faded messes. Think a slim-fit, vintage-inspired tee from a proper music merch shop (or a gently worn genuine vintage one). Keep it iconic.
The Leather Jacket (Investment Piece): A well-fitting, preferably slightly worn-in leather biker jacket is essential. This is where you splurge.
The Denim (Modern Fit): Forget super skinny jeans. Think straight-leg, slightly bootcut, or even a relaxed boyfriend fit in dark washes.
The Dress (Slip or Mini, with Texture): Silk slips are divine, especially with delicate lace. Corduroy or velvet minidresses work well too.
The Footwear (Statement Makers): Chunky boots (think Dr. Martens, but maybe a bit sleeker), or distressed/worn-in ballet flats.
The Accessories (Key Details): Scarves and belts add personality.
Hair & Makeup: "I Woke Up Like This" (but carefully crafted):
Hair: Messy waves, undone buns, maybe a touch of hair gel for some intentional texture, or even a deep side part. Nothing too polished.
Makeup: Think smudged eyeliner (effortless smoulder), a sheer berry lip stain, and maybe a touch of highlighter. The goal is to look naturally radiant.
Nails: Keep them short with a dark polish like burgundy or black.
Brands to Invest In (for that elevated edge):
Leather Jackets:
Saint Laurent: Their biker jackets are iconic.
Acne Studios: Known for their modern, minimalist leather designs.
Rick Owens: The avant-garde leather jackets are unique.
Denim:
Celine: The bootcut and straight-leg denim are a must.
Balenciaga: The denim is experimental.
Frame: Good for classic denim.
Shoes:
Miu Miu: Miu Miu is essential for ballet flats and boots.
Prada: Platform boots for an edge.
Bottega Veneta: High quality and sleek boots.
Accessories:
Hermès: Classic scarves and belts.
Gucci: Statement belts and vintage-inspired accessories.
Loewe: Leather accessories.
Important Considerations:
Sustainability: Shopping preloved and vintage is a must for this look.
Authenticity: Don't try to be a carbon copy of the early 2000s. Inject your own personality.
Subtlety: It's about the impression of effortlessness, not actually being sloppy.
Right, so there you have it! Have fun experimenting, be yourself, and don't be afraid to get a little messy (in a stylish way, of course!). Now go forth and conquer, one smudged eyeliner look at a time.
