Emo and scene are two subcultures that often get lumped together, even though they’re distinctly different. Sometimes it’s easy to see why people mix them up — both subcultures share some stylistic similarities.
But the truth is, emo and scene are two separate movements that feature their own unique fashions, music, and lifestyles.
This article will break down the differences between emo and scene, so you can clearly tell the difference.
A Tale of Two Styles: Dissecting the Fashion Differences
While both scene and emo styles share roots in alternative culture, their fashion aesthetics diverge significantly. Let’s break down the key differences.
Color Palettes: Black vs. Neon
Emo fashion leans heavily on dark colors, with black as the undisputed champion. Scene fashion, on the other hand, explodes with bright, neon colors and bold patterns. Think fluorescent jeans and rainbow everything.
Clothing Styles: Iconography and Silhouettes
Emo clothing often features dark iconography like broken hearts, stars, and skulls, reflecting the introspective and emotional themes of the music. Scene fashion, in contrast, embraces anime and cartoon characters, along with eye-catching animal prints. You might even see full-on anime-inspired outfits in the scene world.
Emo clothing tends to be fitted or skinny, emphasizing a slender silhouette. Scene clothing, however, can be looser and layered, allowing for more playful experimentation.
Shared Elements
Despite the differences, some garments are common in both subcultures. Hoodies, for example, are a staple in both emo and scene wardrobes. However, the style and iconography on the hoodies tend to differ, with emo hoodies featuring darker themes and scene hoodies sporting brighter colors and playful designs.
Hairstyle Havens: Contrasting Cuts and Colors
Hair was a big deal in both the emo and scene subcultures. Here’s how the two styles differed:
Emo Hairstyles: Sleek and Dark
Emo hairstyles tended to be smooth and dark, often featuring long bangs that partially hid the face. Asymmetrical cuts were common.
Scene Hairstyles: Bold and Bright
Scene hairstyles amped things up a bit. They often incorporated bright, unnatural colors and extensions. Teasing and volumizing the hair were hallmarks of the scene aesthetic. Scene hairstyles were generally more elaborate and, shall we say, attention-grabbing than emo styles.
Both styles required a lot of hairspray!
Accessorizing the Aesthetic: Completing the Look
Accessories are key to distinguishing the emo and scene aesthetics. The two subcultures differ quite a bit in their choices.
Emo Accessories: Nerd Chic and Subtle Statements
Emo accessories often include black horn-rimmed glasses, which are a nod to the “nerd chic” aesthetic. Simple jewelry, like studded belts or wristbands, can be part of the emo look, but the emphasis is on understated style.
Scene Accessories: Bold and Bright Statements
Scene accessories go in the opposite direction, with a focus on bold colors and playful designs. Bright sunglasses are a must-have, and colorful plastic jewelry, like bracelets and necklaces, are common. Hair accessories like bows and clips add to the over-the-top scene aesthetic.
Shared Body Modification
Both subcultures may incorporate body modifications like piercings and tattoos, but even here, the styles tend to differ. Emo piercings and tattoos are often more subtle and symbolic, while scene modifications are bolder and more attention-grabbing.
Sonic Landscapes: Emo vs. Scene Music
Music is a powerful marker of identity, and the emo and scene subcultures each had distinct sonic preferences.
Emo Music: Emotionally Charged Rock
Emo music is, at its heart, rock music, but with a hefty dose of emotion. Lyrics are deeply personal, exploring themes of heartbreak, alienation, and angst. Remember, we previously established that words matter a lot to emos, and that’s reflected in their music.
Think bands like My Chemical Romance and Dashboard Confessional. These are groups whose songs you scream-sang along to in your bedroom, feeling understood in your teenage turmoil.
Scene Music: Electronic and Party-Oriented
In contrast, scene music tends to be more electronic, dance-y, and geared toward creating a party vibe. It’s less about introspection and more about high energy.
Artists like Breathe Carolina and Metro Station are often associated with the scene aesthetic. The focus is on creating an upbeat and energetic atmosphere, perfect for dancing and having a good time.
Lifestyle and Identity: Expression Beyond Appearance
Although style is a big part of both the emo and scene subcultures, the lifestyle and identity components are also important.
Emo: Introspection and Emotional Expression
Emo culture emphasizes introspection, vulnerability, and the open expression of emotion. Emo people often express themselves through music, poetry, and other art forms.
Scene: Social Interaction and Visual Presentation
Scene culture prioritizes social interaction, community, and visual presentation. Scene kids often express themselves through fashion and their online presence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is scene girl emo?
Not necessarily. While there can be some overlap in aesthetics, scene and emo are distinct subcultures. A “scene girl” typically embraces a colorful, playful style with bright clothes and teased hair, while “emo” emphasizes emotional expression and often features darker clothing and introspective themes.
Is MCR emo or scene?
My Chemical Romance (MCR) is generally considered an emo band, although their sound and style have evolved over time. Early in their career, they were associated with the emo scene, but their music has also incorporated elements of punk, rock, and even theatrical influences. They’ve definitely got overlap with the genre but never fully fit into the “scene” aesthetic.
What is the difference between emo and scene makeup?
Emo makeup often involves heavy black eyeliner, sometimes smudged or winged, and a generally darker, more dramatic look. Scene makeup tends to be more colorful and playful, incorporating bright eyeshadows, glitter, and bold lip colors. Scene makeup is about standing out with vibrancy, while emo makeup focuses on expressing deeper emotions.
What is the difference between emo and goth?
Emo and goth are distinct subcultures with different origins and aesthetics. Goth is rooted in post-punk music and often features dark, romantic, and sometimes macabre themes. Emo, on the other hand, is closely tied to emotional hardcore punk and emphasizes vulnerability and emotional expression. Goth fashion is typically darker and more elaborate than emo fashion, which is more casual and often incorporates elements of punk and indie style.
Final Thoughts
While both scene and emo subcultures are all about expressing your inner self, they go about it in very different ways. The clothes, the music, and the lifestyle choices all point to some pretty significant differences.
Whether you identify as scene, emo, or neither, it’s important to understand and respect the many ways people choose to express themselves. After all, celebrating individuality and self-expression is what these subcultures are all about.