Definition of Steampunk (Urban Tribe)

In a global world where uniformity is imposed and everything seems like a repeated copy like a franchise, some people feel the need to create their own identitycultural. It is not uncommon for new urban tribes to appear periodically. The so-called steampunks make up one of these alternative tribes.

From where they come?

The origin of this movement it is found in literary creation. The subgenus of Science fiction Steampunk appeared in the 1980s to tell stories that recreated the Victorian era.

It is not a novel history without more, since in them a world is reflected where historical truth is mixed with technological fiction (for this reason we speak of a uchronic novel). This subgenre stands out for the following narrative elements: recreation distorted history, a technology to margin from its real context and adventurous characters.

The reader finds himself before a fantasy world in which it is possible to follow in the footsteps of a historical past.

Aesthetics and culture

Those who make up this subgroup are naturally inspired by steampunk novels and movies.

From the world literary and cinematographic, a very original aesthetic trend has been created. His followers dress in a nineteenth-century style and their most characteristic garments and accessories are the following: vests, hats, corsets, pocket watches, aviator glasses, leather garments with metallic accessories, retro umbrellas and jackets vintage military. All inspired by the elegant and sophisticated Victorian fashion of the 19th century.

The steampunks have created their own look, but they also have some signs of cultural identity. Faced with the rise of new devices, they are fascinated by retro. The world of fantasy is suggestive to them.

In her aesthetics there is an implicit criticism of the globalized world and irrational consumerism. With their way of dressing they express a rejection of technology, especially the perversity of programmed obsolescence.

They show interest in a world that no longer exists in reality, but does exist in their fantasies. When watching them, it is easy to imagine a character from Jules Verne's novels or a movie in which an English adventurer appears about to begin a journey in a time machine.

Certain celebrities also follow this trend

The versatile Lady Gaga is characterized by her constant style changes in her clothing and one of her most recent looks is precisely steampunk.

In some promotional videos, singer Justin Bieber has also approached the retro-futuristic aesthetic of this subculture.

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