Everything you know when you’re edgy in Leeds, but totally basic at home

Edgy can mean anything from your music taste being as cool as Morrissey to your clothes being something baggy; probably denim and most definitely outside the realms of “normal.” As the Urban Dictionary puts it "taking coolness to its extreme and generally beyond the realm of actual possibility, while at the same time seemingly unaware of how ridiculous it is". Honestly, that’s not incredibly far from the truth. I myself am a self-confessed edgy university student.

I (attempt) to look good in clothes that not everyone would wear and listen to music that warrants me being banned from using an aux cord. Although, I’m not the only one in this edgy army, there is a menagerie of us, draped in oversized sweatshirts and sporting trousers that don’t always fit properly. However, the edgy vibe around Leeds was not one I was familiar with at home.

Wearing anything other than joggers is considered 'edgy' in Grimsby

My “home” is the wonderland that is Grimsby. No, it’s nothing like the God-awful film with Sacha Baron Cohen. Yes, it’s a shit hole like the movie suggests, but one of us being related to spies? I think not, it’s more likely that we’re related to one another. Yes, it really is as "grim" as the name suggests.

In this delightful town, the dress code can be one of two things. The first, a simple pair of blue jeans (regular fit) accompanied by its humble companion, the t-shirt (strictly plain might I add). Secondly, the more undesirable residents of this thriving cess pit opt for the matching baggy tracksuit bottoms and sweatshirt. In all honesty, you can’t tell if these people are escaped convict’s or out doing their weekly shop.

If you even so much as consider something oversized, then don’t come to Grimsby. Ever.

Literally the only thing worth seeing in Grimsby

You could literally wear a bin bag in Leeds and it would be fine

The city lives off the energy of the movers and shakers that are the Hipsters. Every street is filled with numerous displays of individuality, a great sight for people like myself to see. Now don’t get me wrong, “the look” is also in Leeds; however, it is one of admiration rather than a murderous desire. People are free to dress and act how they want.

In my very short time here I’ve seen many people representing the "who cares" attitude. On my first day, I came across a guy who genuinely wearing a long pin striped trench coat and a pair of “Genie trousers”. Not something you would see in Grimsby. Or most places, to be fair.

Look at all those backpacks

Everywhere you look there's vintage jackets you couldn't pull off at home

Vintage is a staple for the diet of a hipster. However, your personal “edge” is fashioned solely by you. Some slip on a pair of corduroys, while the more adventurous types take their chances with a pair of dungarees to finesse their image. When only the edgy capitals of Britain contain these gold mines though, you can find yourself stuck in a rut when you go home. If you’re trying to find one in a quiet suburban town or village then give up now, you’ve got about as much chance as Duran Duran do of being played in Pryzm. Even if you do, steer well clear, it may look inviting, but the mobs of “anti-edge” protestors will be waiting with their pitch forks as soon as you exit.

A good checklist for anyone out edgy spotting is to look for the must haves in the vintage world. Firstly, if you see someone wearing an over shirt reminiscent of a Rothko painting then you’ve made a great start. Next, check the trousers. Are the legs rolled up or made of a material only found in carpet shops? If the answer’s yes, you’ve hit the edgy jackpot. All jokes aside though, vintage is eye wateringly expensive at times, so make sure you’ve got some of your student loan spare to achieve the look you’re after. Nevertheless, grab vintage by the balls and achieve your edgy goals. But only in Leeds. Everywhere else will shun you for trying, trust me.

neverending, much like seminar readings

The brands you always hear of, but couldn't even find at home

Urban Outfitters is any millennials dream, when they have a sale on that is, but you get bet your entire edgy wardrobe I can't find a single store with 30 miles of where I live. Their clothes break the mould of normality and save you from rummaging through 30-year-old garments. Topshop/man offers a similar outlet, sometimes. But it's cheaper so always worth a look. In Leeds that is, not Grimsby.

When you come from the slums of a non-edgy establishment, these shops are an absolute utopia. It's like a breath of fresh air for a previously closeted edgy person. Their eyes drawn to borg lined jackets and trousers so tight they “accentuate” what your momma gave ya so to speak. Pile up your pennies at home and just wait until you can roam free in the open lands of these edgy retailers, it’s an experience you’ll frequently relive once you’ve settled in.

Basically, if you’ve been savvy with your loan then go to Urban Outfitters, treat yourself, you deserve it. On the other hand, if you bought one too many Domino’s pizzas and enjoyed about five too many nights out then maybe try Topshop. Or Primark? If that’s still a little out of your price range, then I suggest seeing a financial advisor.

A Hipsters emporium

Being edgy is practically outlawed in your home town

If I say the words "edgy person in Leeds", you'll probably think of these three things: Paisley, a splash of pink, and vinyl/records. In Grimsby, not so much. This look isn't considered edgy, more "flamboyant" to put it nicely. You'll definitely get shouted at in the street, and not in a good way.

None of them really understand the word style and, as I’ve proven, don’t take too kindly to people trying to express themselves. Personally, I own more Paisley products than Richard Branson does islands; a pink fleece to help with the fact "winter is coming", and own so much vinyl that I could probably make a 24-hour rave if I played them all back to back.

True, the only people who recognise my music are often 3 times my age and the only comment I get on my clothing is "I had one just like that in the 70’s". But who cares? You listen to that David Bowie picture disc and cast aside the critics who say your shirt looks like a tea towel, they’re only jealous.

Accurate representation of my love life