12 Emo Outfits for Embracing Your Inner 2010s Tumblr Girl
*aggressive black eyeliner intensifies*
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The emo kids ruled the internet during the early 2010s. Ripped skinny jeans, heavy metal band tees, choker necklaces, knee high socks (black, of course) and leather jackets were everywhere. Jet black, neon-streaked versions of J. Bieb’s fringe haircut abounded, and Hot Topic was the hottest place to be. But if we’ve learned anything from the resurgence of twee, the longevity of gorpcore, and the fact that cottagecore takes inspo for decades (if not centuries) ago, it’s that fashion always comes back — so yes, emo outfits are definitely still thing in 2022.
But first, what is emo fashion? Emo is a music genre that’s similar to punk or rock, with more emotional subjects and lyrics. Emo fans form a subculture with a very specific way of dressing — a moody, all-black, edgy style with lots of leather and silver accents in the form of studs, chains, or piercings. The look was huge in the 2010s, especially on Tumblr.
Even though emo fashion is technically a throwback style, everything from the When We Were Young alt music festival (hello, My Chemical Romance, Avril Lavigne and Pierce the Veil!) to Kourtney Kardashian in her Travis Barker era has proved that the edgy emo girl is alive and well in 2022. Whether you’re wearing studs and chains, ripped tights, pleated plaid skirts, heavy Dr. Marten boots, or skull statement rings, alternative looks for genuine self-expression will never go out of style. On days where everything is dreary and bright kidcore outfits juts don’t match how you feel on the inside, emo fashion is here for you.
Emo outfits are for the Wednesday Addams’ of the world — the moody intensity of an all-black outfit will prove the age-old saying “It’s not a phase, mom!” in the most stylish way. Here are our favorite picks below.
Volcom Truly Ringer Short Sleeve Tee - Black
The black and red color scheme of this outfit totally screams emo. Rep your favorite artist, animal, or heavy metal band on a soft AF graphic tee, and then tie a flannel or hoodie around your waist for that laid-back look.
Dr. Martens Audrick Hardware Leather Platform Boots
Dr. Martens Audrick Hardware Leather Platform Boots
Dr. Martens are the unofficial shoe of the emo scene. Go for silver buckle detailing and a heavy lug sole to add that dark, gritty look to literally anything you pair your boots with.
Red tartan plaid prints are emo-approved, especially when they have faux leather and buckle detailing. A short skirt is perfect for showing off a pair of faux tattoo tights and buckle boots.
Levi 720 High Rise Super Skinny Women's Jeans
Levi 720 High Rise Super Skinny Women's Jeans
Pull out those black skinny jeans from the back of your closet, (carefully) shred them to bits with scissors and sandpaper, and your denim line-up is alt-ready.
SHEWIN Black Long Sleeve Fleece Hooded Sweatshirt
If everything in your closet is going to be black, don't forget about the comfy clothes! A classic hoodie isn't just for lazy days — you can wear it under a leather jacket for an appropriately emo look.
Calling all goth girlies — this heart choker may be edgy, but it's also literally too cute for words. It'll match with anything and everything.
No emo wardrobe is complete without an edgy leather jacket. The motorcycle style will add a dose of Cool Factor™️ to your outfits.
Converse Run Star Motion Canvas Platform Shoes
Black high-top Converse are an emo staple — why not switch it up with a platform pair? The Run Star sneakers have the coolest zig-zag soles.
These black cargo pants are upgraded with utilitarian straps and buckles, plus a silver chain that attaches to your belt loop. Wear a silver chain necklace to match your pants.
Simplicity Arm Warmer Knitted Long Fingerless Gloves
Simplicity Arm Warmer Knitted Long Fingerless Gloves
Opera gloves, move out of the way — fingerless arm warmers are here to stay. Emo-ify the celeb-loved trend by opting for a black and red striped print.
Bad hair day? No problem. A slouchy black beanie will cover up any hair grease while complimenting your super-dark eyeliner and vampy lipstick.
Consider the emo aesthetic to be your permission slip to stock up on cool graphic tees, like this black crew T-shirt that looks like an X-ray right to your ribs.
Hannah is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from cute apartment decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and unhinged updates on the books she’s reading on the train.
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