In the late 1980s, fashion and music were inseparable forces driving pop culture. One band that epitomized this fusion was Information Society, a synthpop group whose sound and look left a lasting mark on both the music and fashion worlds. In 1988, In Fashion magazine, a prominent publication of that era, spotlighted the Information Society band, recognizing their influence not only on the airwaves but also on the style trends of the time. This article dives into the connection between the band and their iconic appearance in In Fashion magazine, while exploring the lasting significance of their unique sound and style.
Who Is Information Society?
Before diving into their 1988 feature in In Fashion magazine, let’s take a brief look at who Information Society (often abbreviated as “InSoc”) is. Emerging from Minneapolis in the early ’80s, the band combined elements of new wave, electronic, and synthpop to create a futuristic sound that was ahead of its time. Their self-titled album, Information Society, released in 1988, contained hits like What’s on Your Mind (Pure Energy) and Walking Away, which catapulted them to fame.
Their music, laden with catchy synths, electronic beats, and distinctive vocals, spoke to the growing digital age and resonated deeply with fans who loved their tech-savvy vibe. However, their success wasn’t just about the music. Information Society also made a visual statement with their futuristic, tech-driven style, which is exactly what caught the attention of In Fashion magazine.
Information Society in In Fashion Magazine 1988
By 1988, In Fashion magazine was at the forefront of highlighting influential artists and fashion trends. Featuring musicians who shaped both the cultural and sartorial landscape, the magazine’s audience saw these artists as the epitome of what was hot. That year, Information Society found themselves gracing the pages of In Fashion.
The 1988 feature of the band wasn’t just a nod to their musical prowess; it was a celebration of their innovative style. Information Society’s look reflected the technology-infused future they sang about. They often sported bold colors, geometric designs, and accessories that gave off a tech-heavy, industrial feel—mirroring the futuristic sound that defined their music. This cyberpunk aesthetic resonated with the fashion-forward readers of In Fashion magazine, who were hungry for something new, something bold.
Information Society’s wardrobe, often featuring bright patterns, oversized silhouettes, and avant-garde materials, stood out in contrast to the traditional rock and pop fashions of the time. Their look was modern and sophisticated, combining elements of both streetwear and high fashion, further cementing their place in pop culture.
The Fashion and Music Connection
By the late 1980s, fashion magazines like In Fashion were increasingly recognizing the influence musicians had on style trends. Artists like Information Society not only dictated what people listened to but also what they wore. Their appearance in In Fashion wasn’t just a feature; it was a reflection of the growing symbiosis between music and fashion.
The clothing choices of bands like Information Society were essential in creating a visual identity that complemented their music. For Information Society, it wasn’t just about wearing the latest trends but about crafting a look that felt in sync with their digital and futuristic sounds. Their style, much like their music, pushed boundaries and challenged traditional norms, making them icons of both mediums.
Why Information Society’s Style Still Matters
While trends come and go, the impact of Information Society’s style as seen in In Fashion magazine lives on. Their influence on the synthpop genre and 80s fashion paved the way for future generations of artists who combine tech, music, and fashion to create innovative and genre-defining looks.
Even today, retro styles inspired by the 80s are making a comeback. Fashion brands often take inspiration from the cyberpunk, tech-infused looks that artists like Information Society popularized. The band’s appearance in In Fashion magazine not only encapsulated their era but set the stage for future trends in music-driven fashion.
Conclusion: Information Society’s Lasting Legacy
The 1988 feature of Information Society in In Fashion magazine highlighted a pivotal moment where music and fashion collided. Information Society’s style mirrored their innovative sound, and their influence continues to inspire both musicians and fashion designers today. Whether you’re a fan of their futuristic beats or their bold wardrobe choices, one thing is clear: Information Society’s impact on both the fashion and music industries remains undeniable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What genre of music is Information Society known for?
Information Society is best known for their synthpop and electronic music, which became popular in the 1980s.
2. What was significant about Information Society’s feature in In Fashion magazine?
Their feature highlighted how their futuristic style was influencing fashion at the time, showing the deep connection between music and fashion in pop culture.
3. How did Information Society’s style reflect their music?
Their style was tech-forward and cyberpunk-inspired, much like their music, which featured electronic beats and digital sounds.
4. Why is Information Society’s 1988 album still influential?
The album featured hits like What’s on Your Mind (Pure Energy), which became synthpop anthems and continue to resonate with fans of the genre today.
5. Are any of Information Society’s fashion trends still relevant today?
Yes, retro-inspired styles, especially those featuring futuristic or tech-driven elements, are making a comeback in today’s fashion world.
6. How has Information Society influenced modern music and fashion?
They helped bridge the gap between music and fashion, particularly in the way artists craft visual identities that reflect their sound, a trend that continues in today’s music industry.
