Remembering Myspace
Between 2005 & 2008 Myspace enjoyed prominence as the biggest social media site on the planet, surpassing even Google as the most visited website in the US in 2006. During this time, millions of teens raced home from school, jumped online and hooked up to their Myspace profile to talk to like minded people.
At Blackrose we thought it would be fun to take a trip down memory lane and speak to some of today’s most influential alternative clothing bloggers and ask them about their time with Myspace, how it evolved their style, and how that style has changed since its heyday.
Here’s what they had to say...
- How has your style evolved since the first photo?
During the time of Myspace I was a 15/16 year old teenager struggling through the angst of growing up, trying to fit in and seeking solace in music and friends- I loved skinny jeans, red Converse and dying the ends of my hair red. I also loved hoodies ALOT and wearing a crazy amount of eyeliner just on my waterline and I remember I used to wonder if there would ever be a day I didn't backcomb my hair. That day arrived when I went off to University and understood that I didn't need to fit in, nobody does. I studied Fashion and now work as a successful designer, I also calmed down with the backcombing and don't even own a can of hairspray, eyeliner is now a cat eye flick everyday and my hair is orange and pink! I dress crazier now but still love skinny jeans, converse and band t-shirts!
- How did Myspace influence your style, for better and for worse?
Myspace made me want to be alternative and get a nose ring (which i did) and experiment with looking as grungy and emo as possible. I remember trying out red eyeliner.. that wasn't a great look in retrospect. Myspace is cemented in my youth and the days when I just wanted to be as cool as the guys on the Kerrang station- it was a movement for the time in music and the music influenced the way I dressed
- What Myspace trends do you still see today?
Myspace 'trends' are now Tumblr trends. I think the generation just moved into a photo based media where the trend to express yourself, and your differences and your style in a more literal sense to everyone. Myspace fame has filtered through into Tumblr too and Instagram- I think Myspace was the start of being able to reach out and become someone. It was the creators platform and now there are so many and that’s awesome.
- How would you describe your style today?
Colourful. With lots of eye makeup and I swapped my converse for vans and Dr Martens. My style definitely got better :P
- How has your style evolved since the first photo?
Honestly, I would say my style hasn't changed very much since these pictures were taken. I'd like to think I very much echo the styles in these pictures but have matured it and been able to find my style? Maybe a little less eyeliner. . .
- How did Myspace influence your style, for better and for worse?
Ha. It certainly influenced my need to do all the backcombing and use all the eyeliner. I would say over the years I've toned that right the way down, but what I saw other people posting inspired me to create my own versions of what they were doing.
- What Myspace trends do you still see today?
I think Myspace was really where the ''alt kids'' thrived. I think, no matter how old you are you'll always be an emo kid at heart. Be it still repping the big hair and sweep fringes, the tightest skinny jeans or been all round experimental with outfits. It's easy to pick out the people that used to be an advocate of the ''myspace angle" back in the day ;).
- How would you describe your style today?
Like I fell into my wardrobe and rolled around in it hahaa? I really like grunge/90s styles and try and channel that into my outfits. I love bright colourful outfits and I'm not afraid to clash. Unfortunately, work commitments mean I can't go as crazy I'd like to go be it super bright hair [RIP] or piercings.
- How has your style evolved since the first photo?
Oh geez, where to begin! Hehe! Since it's been over 10 years in-between photos and I don't go out clubbing as much as I used too, I would say my style evolved to be more "practical". I traded in wearing platforms every day to wearing comfy flats and pointy boots. I traded in my hair falls for teasing my hair and I don't wear PVC clothing any more.
- How did Myspace influence your style, for better and for worse?
To be honest, I don't even remember! I do remember admiring other people's outfits and lusting after corsets, Pennangalan boots and PVC ballgowns, so perhaps it helped me get into credit card debt? Haha!
- What Myspace trends do you still see today?
The 90s are in style right now, which carried through to early 2000's fashion, so I am seeing platforms, PVC skirts and next-to-no eyebrows still popular today.
- How would you describe your style today?
Gothy with a kitschy twist. I don't limit myself like I used to, I wear what makes my heart sing :)
How has your look changed since your last Myspace picture? We’d love to hear from you, so don’t be shy and let us know in the comment section below.
Myspace influenced millions across the globe. It empowered people to look the way they wanted to, and be who they wanted to. It put unsigned bands in front of millions of people. It helped connect long lost friends and lovers. Myspace was where, for many of us, the internet began. And while it may no longer be the powerhouse it once was, we still hold a special place in our hearts for it.
Myspace, we salute you.
