Revisiting The 90s Rave Scene

The 90s rave scene holds a special place in my heart and is an intrugal part of "what makes a Melody". It was a time post-highschool where I was discovering who I was, as a supposed adult, and rejecting the idea entirely. The fashion and accessories in themselves were a rebellion against growing up and I was all about it.

It was a vibrant subculture that transcended mere entertainment, transforming into a movement that defined an era. From the pulsating beats of electronic music to the free-spirited gatherings, the 90s rave scene was a melting pot of music, fashion, and culture that left an indelible mark on my youth and society as a whole.

Now let's delve into the reasons why this era remains unmatched in its cultural significance and enduring influence.

It was the birth of Electronic Dance Music (EDM): The 90s rave scene laid the groundwork for what we now know as electronic dance music (EDM). Genres like techno, house, trance, and drum and bass gained prominence during this era. One of my favorites was Alice DeeJay. I would lay on the floor, feel the bass of the song pulse through me with my eyes closed and heart wide open. I was truly living in the moment without a care in the world.

Talk To Me has a techno-colored holographic finish that makes the emerald green hue transform in the sun and I can hear my 19 year old self singing it loudly as I type this.

Oh the Underground Counterculture. Raves were more than just parties; they were a rebellion against mainstream culture. Often held in abandoned warehouses, open fields, and remote locations, these gatherings created an alternative space where attendees could escape societal norms. The underground nature fostered a sense of unity among participants, who embraced a lifestyle free from judgment. I myself never really went to any "raves" but rather went to many a house parties where different music played in every room and some had light shows to match the beat of the music. I made many new friends dancing and smiling. No one cared how much money you made or if you went to college. Everyone danced with everyone and smiled while complimenting a persons aura. 

The Aura Wallet is inspired by the wave lengths of music and the aura hidden within it. 

Unity Through Music: One of the most culturally significant aspects of the 90s rave scene was its ability to unite people from all walks of life. Regardless of race, gender, or background, everyone shared a common love for the music and the experience. It was a safe haven where diversity was celebrated, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of belonging. Peace, love, unity and respect or better known as PLUR was a common set of principles within the scene. 

PLUR has a silver shimmer base with large square and hex holo flecks. 

Our community of Babbs feels much like the welcoming candy kids of the 90s. As we say at LOUD, welcome to the party 🎉 everyone is invited. We are now out of the 90s and in our Babbs era but the sentiment of inclusion lives on. 

Our In My Babbs Era  hoodie reminds us we are all in this together.

Technological Innovations: The 90s was a period of rapid technological advancement, and the rave scene was no exception. The introduction of new sound equipment, lighting effects, and visual projections elevated the sensory experience of raves. This fusion of music and technology set the stage for the immersive audiovisual productions seen in today's music festivals. 

And now you can take your music anywhere you want to go with our LOUD Bluetooth Speaker and no one can ask you to turn it down because you are advertising it very clear that you will do no such thing. 

The Emergence of "Rave Fashion": The fashion of the 90s rave scene was an outward expression of its rebellion against conformity. Neon colors, oversized clothing, phat pants, and chunky platform shoes were the norm. The fashion was not just about making a statement; it was a way for ravers to visually connect with each other and embody the free-spirited nature of the movement.

Candy Flip is the neon pink you need to pull you out of any funk!

Beaded bracelets were my jam. We called them "candy" and the more you had, the cooler you were. Our full Serotonin bundle includes hand made "candy" bracelets. Note, they are not actually candy. You cannot eat them. You can however feel super cool wearing them. 

Anti-Establishment Philosophy: Rave culture of the 90s embodied an anti-establishment sentiment, with organizers and attendees resisting regulations that aimed to suppress the movement. The infamous "Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994" in the UK attempted to crack down on free parties and outdoor raves, leading to clashes between ravers and law enforcement, further solidifying the scene's rebellious nature.

Today, we rebel against conformity and suppression. We are LOUD and we are proud and our Rebel Bag matches that energy. 

The 90s rave scene was a transformative period that left an indelible mark on music, fashion, and culture. Its influence can be seen in the evolution of electronic dance music, the spirit of unity it fostered, and its role as a countercultural movement. With its rebellious attitude, colorful fashion, and euphoric music, the 90s rave scene continues to be celebrated for its cultural significance and lasting impact on generations that followed.

I for one was heavily impacted by this time of my life and it's influence can clearly be seen in a lot of our work. I hope you love this bright and fun winter collection as much as we do. Check out the full collection HERE.