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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at IUP chapter.

So you’ve heard the recent rumblings of the new (not new) sub of a subculture midwest emo.The subgenre is a divergence from emo music and culture. It’s focus is on introspection, heartbreak, and has an overall DIY, off-key sound. If you want to get in on this subculture this is your one stop shop! I’m giving you all the details on what to wear and listen to! (Obviously there are more clothes and artists you can listen to, these are just my favorites.)

The first thing you need is the aesthetic, obviously! That’s what we’re focusing on in part one of this starter kit.

Hats

Starting from the top, a nice baseball hat. Bonus points if it’s one of those awkwardly short, and flatter baseball hats dubbed the Midwest emo hat. 

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Tops

Then for a top, we can go a couple different ways. One way is for a warmer day. A solid color or graphic cropped top is perfect for warm days.

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If it’s chillier a better option may be an oversized graphic tee. Bonus points if it’s a band, vans, or something else a Midwest emo would approve of.

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If it’s very cold, you can opt for a long sleeve and a graphic tee, again, preferably oversized. 

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Flannel

Next is a flannel,  I recommend multiple colors and sizes. This is the epitome of Midwest fashion! The goal it’s mostly oversized, but smaller or cropped ones are good too.

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Pants

Pants also have a few options. My go-to is baggy ripped jeans.

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However, baggy or mom jeans without rips also work. Black jeans are also a good option!

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If you’re not a jean person, you can wear flare pants, but I would start with jeans.

Shoes

As far as shoes goes, basically anything goes. Vans

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Converse

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Nikes

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Mainly any type of sneaker. Boots also work as an option if your baggy jeans are a little too baggy and drag.

Coat

If it’s a chilly day, an outer coat is a must. I recommend a Flannel jacket,

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Jean jacket,

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or Army jacket

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Bonus points if the jacket is oversized and/or thrifted!

Accessories

Lastly is accessories. Mine usually include a black or chunky belt to hold up the baggy pants,

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Some bracelets from other events, or rope braided ones.

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Next up is music! There are many bands classified as Midwest emo – and some that aren’t but should be in my opinion! Keep a look out for part two when we talk about music and bands!

Grace Fette is a chapter leader at the HerCampus at IUP chapter. She loves to write lists, zodiac posts, and personal experiences. Grace is a Junior at IUP. She's an English Writing studies major with Women and Gender studies and Communications media minors. She is president of Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society Xi Xi chapter and her work has been published a number of times. She loves to hang out with friends and her sister, hike, and read poetry. She is always up for coffee, cute breakfast places, and concerts of any kind!