Skins

Perhaps one of the most reviled yet misunderstood of all the youth subcultures, the skinhead look originated back in the 60s as a simple fashion statement. Sartorially proud of their working class roots, the original skinhead was a multi-cultural, politically broad-minded and fashion-aware individual. Favourite music was reggae, soul and ska and key artists included Desmond Dekker, Max Romeo and The Pyramids. Above all else, genuine skinheads were obsessed with their presentation. Their choice of immaculate clothing and invariably Dr Martens boots was the ultimate anti-fashion statement and a badge of both power and pride. Sadly, the fashion suffered a phase of being appropriated by right-wing extremists and for many years was a fashion pariah. However, towards the end of the 90s, the closely cropped look has been championed by a whole new generation of high profile celebrities, including David Beckham and Ewan McGregor, bringing skinhead style back into the mainstream once again. Gavin Watson's critically acclaimed photography of late 70s skinheads perfectly captures a snapshot of this unique youth culture.
The scores of black and white shots offer a fascinating glimpse into a skinhead community that was multi-cultural, tightly knit and above all else, fiercely proud of their look. These are classic photographs of historical value.