What is heroin chic?

Heroin chic is a controversial fashion aesthetic that emerged in the mid-1990s. The term "heroin" refers to the drug, heroin, which is infamous for its addictive properties and destructive effects on health. "Chic" is a term commonly used in the fashion industry to describe something fashionable, stylish, or trendy.

Heroin chic became popular in the fashion world during the 1990s, primarily in the United States and Europe. It was characterized by an extremely thin and emaciated look, with pale skin, dark circles under the eyes, and a seemingly unhealthy appearance. Models who embodied this aesthetic often appeared fragile and gaunt, resembling individuals struggling with drug addiction.

This trend was heavily influenced by high-end fashion photographers like Corinne Day, Davide Sorrenti, and Nan Goldin, who sought to challenge the traditional notions of beauty prevalent in the industry. They aimed to subvert the glamorous and polished image of models and instead captured raw, gritty, and realistic portrayals, often showcasing the vulnerability and imperfections of their subjects.

Critics of heroin chic argued that the aesthetic glamorized and romanticized drug addiction, promoting a dangerous and unhealthy body image. They expressed concerns that it could potentially influence vulnerable individuals, especially young people, to pursue harmful behaviors to achieve the desired appearance.

The controversy surrounding heroin chic prompted widespread debate about the fashion industry's responsibility to promote healthy standards of beauty and overall well-being. Over time, this trend gradually faded, giving way to an increased focus on diversity, body positivity, and responsibility in the portrayal of models in fashion media.