I feel like most of these comments got it half right, but are missing the greater picture. The lyrics aren't just about how shallow the fashion industry is, but how it methodically sells "alternative" styles to the mainstream.
The fashion industry is known for ripping off elements of Punk, Goth, Rockabilly, etc., and capitalizing on them, making them nothing more than a fashion trend. Because of this, counterculture lifestyles have become subverted and watered down. "Normal" people are donning piercings, tattoos, and punk clothing because the industry is telling them it's in fashion this season, which is stripping the meaning from counterculture as a whole.
Punk rock is no longer a threat to the establishment, if people see it as nothing more than a trend you can buy at the mall.
Also, the lines near the end: "Vanity is alright... Miss Universe missed the point completely". I think it's a reminder that there's nothing wrong with expressing yourself through style. It's only an issue when you dress that way to conform to beauty standards.
I feel like most of these comments got it half right, but are missing the greater picture. The lyrics aren't just about how shallow the fashion industry is, but how it methodically sells "alternative" styles to the mainstream.
The fashion industry is known for ripping off elements of Punk, Goth, Rockabilly, etc., and capitalizing on them, making them nothing more than a fashion trend. Because of this, counterculture lifestyles have become subverted and watered down. "Normal" people are donning piercings, tattoos, and punk clothing because the industry is telling them it's in fashion this season, which is stripping the meaning from counterculture as a whole.
Punk rock is no longer a threat to the establishment, if people see it as nothing more than a trend you can buy at the mall.
Also, the lines near the end: "Vanity is alright... Miss Universe missed the point completely". I think it's a reminder that there's nothing wrong with expressing yourself through style. It's only an issue when you dress that way to conform to beauty standards.