Emo music, initially known as emotional hardcore, began in the 1980's as a style of hardcore. Throughout the 90's and early 2000's, emo evolved and was influenced by other genres including pop punk, rock, and alternative.

As the genre evolved, a subculture was born. Emo style shares many similarities with other alternative subcultures. Emo fashion includes staples like: skinny jeans, band tees, studded belts, arm warmers, Converse or Vans, eyeliner, black nail polish and the iconic side-swept hair.

Emo's colorful cousin, scene, features many of the same staple pieces mixed with neon colors, animal print and teased hair with choppy layers.

Body modifications like colored hair, tattoos and piercings are also common.

The subculture is often stereotyped as being emotional, angsty or sensitive. Articles criticizing emo culture have included claims of cults and promotion of self destructive behavior. While the term "emo" has received backlash, many people found a home in the community and have used sites like Emo Puddle to connect and express themselves.

Sourpuss is an independent company from New Jersey. They're awesome and they carry a bunch of different stuff in different styles.

Killstar has really good clearance deals pretty often, so that's something to keep an eye out for.

Unique Vintage isn't necessarily alt, but just vintage inspired. They get super cute Halloween stuff and basics, though.

Too Fast has so much casual stuff; lots of tees, shorts, cute dresses, lounge sets, etc.

Blackmilk does a bunch of really cute collab stuff, art inspired collections, holiday stuff, and basics. And everything is super comfy.

MerchNow is primarily a marketplace for bands/record labels, so you can find a ton of cool merch that places like Hot Topic don't necessarily have.

Drop Dead - owned by Oli of BMTH, lots of unisex options.

Trash and Vaudeville is amazing. It's a punk staple in NYC and the founder married the founder of Tripp.

- KikiMichelle