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 multicultural, politically broad-minded and fashion-aware. Favourite music was reggae, soul and ska and key artists included Desmond Dekker, Max Romeo and The Pyraminds. Their choice of immaculate clothing and invariably Dr Martens boots - was the ultimate anti-fashion statement, and a badge of both power and pride. Above all else, genuine skinheads were obsessed with their presentation. The 70s saw the look adopted 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.