Fashioning Italian Youth: Young People's Identity and Style in Italian Popular Culture, 1958-75

Fashioning Italian youth examines popular media representations of Italian young peoples style trends and bodily practices from 1958-75, connecting the emergence of transnational trends to the national and global history of young people and exploring the dynamics that contributed to the construction of a specifically Italian youth culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

Fashioning Italian youth delves into the captivating realm of popular media representations, exploring the vibrant and dynamic style trends and bodily practices of Italian young people from 1958 to 1975. Through a meticulous examination of visual and written representations of transnational youth trends, such as urlatori, amici, beats, and hippies, this monograph uncovers the profound shifts in the social construction of Italian young people's political, generational, national, ethnic, and gender identities. By delving into the pages of Italian teen magazines, Musicarelli films, and youth-oriented television programs, the study sheds light on the evolving narratives and cultural expressions that shaped the identity of Italian youth during this transformative period.

The monograph establishes a profound connection between the emergence of youth-oriented transnational trends and the broader national and global history of young people. It delves into the intricate dynamics that contributed to the formation of a distinct Italian youth culture, highlighting the unique characteristics and experiences that set it apart from its counterparts.

Within this rich tapestry, the study explores the interplay between fashion, music, and popular culture, examining how these elements shaped the attitudes, behaviors, and aspirations of Italian young people. It sheds light on the ways in which these trends influenced their sense of self, their relationships with others, and their participation in social and political movements.

Moreover, Fashioning Italian youth offers valuable insights into the complex processes of cultural hybridization and globalization. It explores how Italian youth were influenced by international trends, while also contributing to the global spread of their own unique cultural expressions. Through its interdisciplinary approach, the monograph provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics that shaped Italian youth culture during the mid-20th century.

In conclusion, Fashioning Italian youth is a groundbreaking study that offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the fashion, style trends, and bodily practices of Italian young people during a pivotal period in their history. Through its meticulous analysis of visual and written representations, the monograph sheds light on the profound shifts in the social construction of Italian young people's identities and explores the dynamics that contributed to the formation of a distinct Italian youth culture. This work is a valuable contribution to the field of cultural studies and will be of interest to scholars, students, and anyone with an interest in the history and culture of Italy.

Weight: 534g
Dimension: 241 x 165 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526162007