Since the birth of the punk movement in the mid-1970s, punk style has become synonymous with bold and unconventional designs; often featuring a variety of symbols and motifs which today, are easily recognised as punk icons.
These symbols are not only aesthetically charged, but hold deeper meanings within the history of punk culture. From representing rebellion and anti-establishment values to embracing the darker side of life, each ofthe symbold has its unique significance. Uncover these clasically punk icons and their symbolic history in punk culture:
As the punk movement emerged during a time of great political and social upheaval, many punks saw death and decay as an inevitable part of the human experience. While the mainstream societal narrative remained as one of living life to the fullest, punks embraced skulls and bones as symbols of mortality to challenge societal norms and stay true to their beliefs.
Chains in jewelry hold different meanings depending on the context and culture in which they are used. In punk jewelry, chains are often interpreted as marks of strength and resilience. As the punk community subverted mainstream beliefs and norms, they often faced heavy resistance in their acceptance; making courage, strength and resilience qualities dear to the community.
Punk culture rejected the sanitised, commercialised pop culture of the time so while hearts (ands it's associated imagery such as roses and cupids) often kindle ideas of love and passion, these symbols are reinterpreted by punks to express darker themes such as heartbreak, betrayal, and the beauty of chaos.
Love hearts were also used in a subversive fashion. Being a conventionally feminine symbol, many punks incorporated them into their style as a means of rejecting tradional gender roles and challenging social norms.
Crosses have been used heavily in punk jewelry since the early days of the movement, often representing a rejection of traditional religion and alternative spirituality. Punks rejected religion as they saw it as a tool of the establishment that enforced conformity and suppressed individuality so for many punks, rejecting religion was a way to assert their agency.
Today, we see "punk" as an attitude that advocates freedom, embraces unapologetic self-expression and upholds individuality and agency. And as Ask & Embla, we want forge a new revolution, made for all to embrace their individuality and make a bold statement with confidence; presenting unapologetic expression, defiant attitudes and all-new acts of rebellion that celebrate the existence of the rebel in all of us.
Today, we see "punk" as an attitude that advocates freedom, embraces unapologetic self-expression and upholds individuality and agency. And as Ask & Embla, we want forge a new revolution, made for all to embrace their individuality and make a bold statement with confidence; presenting unapologetic expression, defiant attitudes and all-new acts of rebellion that celebrate the existence of the rebel in all of us.