Glam Rock and New Romantics

The essence of Glam Rock is described as a blend of literary and cinematic influences, defined by Mick Rock's quote: "Glam was Oscar Wilde meets A Clockwork Orange; it was anarchy in sequins."

Recognized as an iconic figure within the Glam Rock movement alongside David Bowie.

The article "Faces Without Shadows" outlines the lifestyle of young men like Mark Pebi, Peter Sugar, and Michael Simmonds from Stoke Newington.
- Priorities: Their primary focus is on clothes and pleasure.
- Fashion and Design: They have created their own clothing designs, characterized by vibrant colours, sharp styles, and a rebellious spirit.
- Linguistics: They refer to themselves and their peers as "faces", a term indicative of youth, style, and an uncompromising attitude towards societal norms.

At 15 years old, Feld's dissatisfaction with his surroundings is evident after moving from Stamford Hill to a prefabricated house in Wimbledon.
- Comparison of Environments: He notes that the local Teds (influential youth subculture) represent a poor aesthetic compared to the fashionable youth of Stamford Hill.
- Perspective on Cleanliness: Cleanliness and appearance are of utmost importance to him, despite his exhaustion and lack of sleep, suggesting a deeper commentary on the pressures of youth culture.

A musing on the futility of youth culture: Feld runs energetically without a clear goal, captured in his self-awareness of a vanishing future as he races towards his twenties.
- Living for the Present: This term underscores the idea that the youth are engrossed in immediate pleasures instead of contemplating future consequences.
- Arrogance and Relationships: Commentary on the perception of beauty among youth where attractiveness is equated with value. Those deemed unattractive are insulted, highlighting the harsh realities of youth interactions.

Full Name: David Robert Jones (1947 London - 2016 New York).
Bowie is pivotal to the Glam Rock genre with his elaborate characters, especially Ziggy Stardust, reflecting rebellion and theatricality.

Deram (1967): Bowie's initial foray into music.
Space Oddity (1969): A groundbreaking album featuring the titular track.
The Man Who Sold the World (1970): Notable for its influence and transformation in rock music and identity presentation.
Hunky Dory (1971): Featuring iconic tracks like "Changes" and "Life on Mars?".
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (1972): The quintessential Glam Rock album.
Aladdin Sane (1972): Expands on Bowie’s exploration of identity and fame.

Bowie’s collaborations with notable fashion designers like Kansai Yamamoto enhance the visual dimensions of his performances.

Notable for his extravagant, theatrical designs which often featured in Bowie's performances, especially his portrayal of Ziggy Stardust.
- Key Designs: Include playsuits, brocaded jumpsuits, and high-rise boots incorporated theatrically into his acts.
- The Use of Fabrics: Satin, brocade, and appliqués shape the unique aesthetics present in Bowie’s wardrobe and persona during performances.

Glam Rock as a vehicle for examining social status, beauty ideals, and the subversion of traditional gender roles associated with masculinity and femininity.
The juxtaposition of the glamorous aesthetics against the backdrop of societal normativity creates a rich discourse surrounding identity and self-expression.

Glam Rock’s sensibilities can be seen echoing in later musical and fashion movements, framing the essential expression of individuality and rebellion.

The continued relevance of Glam Rock in discussing modern culture and fashion signifies the lasting legacy of figures like Marc Bolan and David Bowie.