The term “Goth” can be dated back to the Renaissance era and was used to describe a certain subset of art and architecture, such as those that included Gargoyles or depictions of hell.
As such, these forms of art was considered unattractive and shunned upon. Later in the 18th century, the term became used when referencing elements of horror in literature.
What is Goth Style?
Today, though, Goth is almost unanimously referred as a sense of fashion that deviates from the norm with heavy emphasis on dark colors to bring about a sense of melancholy and morbid appearance. Often, people who adopt Goth fashion are often stereotyped as outcasts, rebels, or as the “uncool kids.” However, Gothic fashion is actually a form of self-expression and embracing the opposite of what society has defined as hip or trendy.
For those that want to know how to dress Goth and embrace every meaning of the term, know that there are no rules or fashion faux pas since the style is all about being you. With that being said, though, Goth culture and fashion can be divided into two divisions: old-style and modern Goth.
Old School Goth
Old style Goth became prominent during the 1980s and 90s among fans of the rock & roll and punk music genre. People began adopting the style of dress, which often consisted of dressing from head-to-toe in dark-colored clothing. This may include black boots, trench coats, frayed jackets, ripped skinny jeans, torn stockings, and clothing with a lot of metal buckles and straps. It also includes accessories like spiked neck collars, black nail polish, and fingerless gloves.
To get a better idea of popular Goth styles, think of notable Hollywood characters, such as Christina Ricci’s Wednesday Addams from the Addams Family, or Winona Ryder’s character from Beetlejuice.
Some may also opt for a more attention-grabbing appearance by donning white face paint, black lipstick, and heavy eyeliner. Marilyn Manson is a classic example of someone who has embraced this form of Goth.
Furthermore, old Goth may also adopt elements from medieval culture. For men, aim for loose trousers and pirate-styled shirts. Women should aim for long flowing skirts combined with a bodice or corset worn outwardly. While this is not an accurate depiction of actual medieval fashion, medieval Goth is more about embracing the fantasy elements of the West’s romanticizing of the middle ages.
Modern Goth Fashion
There is also contemporary Goth style clothing. Keep in mind that the difference between old and new Goth isn’t always distinguishable, and there are grey areas. In any case, Goth is Goth, so don’t get too caught up in how the two differ. In learning how to dress Goth, you will likely find that the right style for you falls somewhere in between.
However, modern Goth for the most part may combine old Goth culture with fashion that would normally be deemed the opposite of what Goth is. Take Japan’s Lolita and kawaii culture for instance. These styles often involve overly cutesy clothing that makes heavy use of accessories like umbrellas, bonnets, bow ties, and a lot of pink and bright colors.
Despite Goth and kawaii fashion seemingly being polar opposites, much inspiration can be drawn by combining the two styles into one. This may include dark-colored Lolita and kawaii clothing. In place of Hello Kitty or other cutesy accessories, use ones containing images of skulls, coffins, or zombies. Some people may even just wear normal clothing and give it a Gothic element.
Adopt Your Own Goth Style
If you want to learn how to dress Goth, just look up a few images online for inspiration and go from there. In the beginning, there will be a lot of experimenting. Ultimately, you will find the right combination of Goth style clothing that you can confidently wear as a statement of your personality.
Ashley Williamson is a freelance blogger and journalist. She likes blogging about alternative fashion trends, and soak up inspiration for her writing through her travels in South East Asia.
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