Bubblegum-pink hair. Courtney Love-blonde hair. Raven-black hair. Gleaming piercings, stomping shoes, coquette ribbons, vampire style, and even Kigurumi cat masks; there isn’t a single aesthetic that defines the SU’s Alternative Society.

 It’s an inclusive, come-as-you-are group, whether you’re a fully-fledged alternative dresser or someone who dabbles with a tattoo choker and Doc Martens. Alternative Society were nominated for New Society of the Year at the SU Society Awards 2026, and this fresh society has created space for anyone who appreciates alternative culture, whether it’s fashion, music, or art,

On their webpage, Alternative Society describe themselves as a ‘safe space for students to meet new people who share similar interests, to express themselves freely, and to feel good about who they are!’ Cinna, the society’s Social Media Secretary, spoke to us about how the society empowers students to develop their style because ‘meeting others that are into the things you like will totally help you branch out’.

At the Alternative Society Dress As Your Subculture Night in the SU Bar, the society’s members were even more eye-catching than the bar’s vibrant pint cocktails. The Dress As Your Subculture Night was just one of many socials this year, and other events included a Movie Night, as well as a Clothes Swap for the community to enhance their alternative wardrobes sustainably.

Alternative Society even supported Pakistani Society’s Qawwali Night by offering henna tattoos to attendees, putting their artistic taste to good use in their first collaboration as a new society.

We asked the society executive team to tell us their favourite stories from this year, and Cinna shared this:
‘A fun memory of mine is our first social. I'm a big fan of Jane Remover, so anytime I'm allowed access to the aux I put Jane on, and I did that night. Because she's musically alternative, a few people asked me about the songs! Everyone in the society is so sweet and friendly, and that really showed me.’


Alternative Society is for finding others who stand out from the mainstream and fitting into a welcoming community. By joining Alternative Society, you’ll get so many alt recommendations – your playlists, ‘fits, and uni experience will improve immensely! So whether you’re a goth, emo, punk, a gyaru, a member of an ultra-niche subculture, or someone who appreciates alternative culture, the Alternative Society are waiting for you.