If you think dressing like a Goth is just for Halloween parties and funerals, you’re dead wrong!
People all over the world have used Gothic fashion to express themselves and connect with their community. There’s more to the Goth lifestyle than just wearing all-black clothes and rocking piercings. So if you’re thinking of going Goth, it’s time to get familiar with the culture, the style, and the music.
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The History Of Gothic Design
The origins of Gothic design go way back to the 18th and 19th centuries during the Romanticism era. The term was used to describe the medieval architecture of castles and cathedrals in Europe. When the Romans took over, famous artists like Mary Shelley, Edgar Allan Poe, and Lord Byron quelled their nostalgia with macabre art. Lovers of literature and art discovered these concepts, sparking a morbid fascination with vampires, werewolves, and otherworldly creatures.
Where Did Gothic Fashion Come From?
The Gothic subculture has evolved over the years, gaining more popularity with each decade. It spawned from the British post-punk scene where fans started dressing in leather jackets, chains, combat boots, and dark makeup. Here’s a crash course on how it all began:
- The 60s – The Velvet Underground, The Doors, and Nico were one of the first bands to labelled as “Gothic”.
- The 70s – Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, and Joy Division started accepting the “Gothic” genre.
- The 80s – The rise in popularity of Gothic music inspired the first Goth club in London called The Batcave.
- The 90s – Goth music influenced alternative rock bands like Nine Inch Nails, Marilyn Manson, and Portishead.
And just like that, Gothic fashion was born! The style took on a life of its own, with fans aspiring to look like the badass musicians they see on stage. They wear Gothic Rock’s experimental sound, dark atmospheric melodies, and haunting vocals on their sleeves.
The 10 Most Iconic Goth Outfits
Now, let’s explore the dark side by swapping out your plain wardrobes for something edgier! There are lots of ways to achieve an authentic Gothic ensemble. Celebrities like Marilyn Manson, Angelina Jolie, and Winona Ryder have rocked the Goth look too! Here are some of the best Gothic clothing styles you can try for yourself.
10. Corporate Goth
Who says you need to choose between your Goth life and your corporate career? The Corp Goth keeps it professional without compromising on eccentric fashion choices.
9. Vampire Goth
These glammed up vamps will make you pale with envy! They’re aesthetically inspired by romantic dresses and novels by Anne Rice. Don’t forget your fangs!
8. Steampunk
Steampunk is a fusion of classical medieval garments and elements from a futuristic dystopia. Think bronze accessories mixed with aviators and earthy duster coats!
7. Fetish Goth
If you’re feeling kinky, this is right up your alley! These sexy BDSM Goths love anything leather and latex, pairing their body-contoured outfits with thigh-high boots, chokers, and fishnets.
6. Vintage Goth
Glam it up like a gothic 1920s pin-up girl with vintage pieces and tiny feathered hats! Their make up is usually more subtle, using red lipstick instead of black.
5. Victorian Goth
Ah, the good old Victorian days! Elegant and extravagant, this traditional style is known for its structured corsets, lace garments, and graceful hairstyles.
4. Cyber Goth
The techno ravers of the future walk among us! They’re usually decked out in crazy neon colours, gas masks, and wild, voluminous hair.
3. Gothic Lolita
It turns out you can dress like a little girl and still be fashionable! The term ‘Lolita’ refers to a young-looking lady, and Japanese fashionistas contrast its innocent appeal with not-so-subtle themes of death.
2. Pastel Goth
Being Goth isn’t always about having a monochrome wardrobe! These Goths have combined their love for the culture with splashes of bright pastel colours.
1. Punk Goth
Punk’s not dead – it’s alive and kicking in the Gothic fashion scene! It features a more casual approach to traditional Gothic sensibilities with studded bracelets, lace-up boots, and plaid fabric.
The 5 Best Gothic Clothing Stores
Thanks to online stores, it’s never been easier to find men’s and women’s Gothic clothing in Australia! Here are the best places to shop for all your Gothic needs:
5. Beserk
Overview: This is your one-stop-shop for all things Goth! They carry international brands at affordable prices and great quality, giving you a wide range of styles to choose from.
Price Range: $AUD2 to $AUD239
Products: Halloween costumes, apparel, cosmetics, hair dye, accessories, shoes, swimwear, and homeware
Shop: beserk.com.au
4. Gallery Serpentine
Overview: This store specialises in corsets, Victorian clothing, and all the Steampunk accessories you’ll ever need! They also offer customisation to make sure you get the perfect fit.
Price Range: $AUD14 to $AUD1600
Products: Corsets, gowns, bridal dresses, vests, cosplay costumes, footwear, lingerie, and accessories
Shop: galleryserpentine.com
3. Immoral Fashion
Overview: If you’re into the modern Goth lifestyle, this shop has tons of imported casual wear and formalwear to spice up your closet! Some of our favourites are their chunky leather boots and quirky accessories.
Price Range: $AUD25 to $AUD284
Products: Hoodies, pants, skirts, jackets, coats, shirts, dresses, jewellery, headwear, bags, and Tarot cards
Shop: immoralfashion.com.au
2. Other World Fashion
Overview: If you want to be unconventional, this boutique guarantees out-of-this-world pieces to take your Gothness to the next level! You can also have made-to-wear orders for special occasions or daily wear.
Price Range: $AUD29 to $AUD265
Products: Corsets, gloves, shoes, coats, tops, skirts, hats, makeup, shrugs, plus size clothing, and burlesque outfits
Shop: otherworldfashion.com
1. Punk Rave
Overview: This retail shop brings you the latest trends without breaking the bank! They offer you the best finds at cheap prices, and if you find anything cheaper, they refund you the difference. What a steal!
Price Range: $AUD47 to $AUD236
Products: Dresses, pants, tops, leggings, outerwear, necklaces, bracelets, gloves, belts, hats, and boots
Shop: shop.punkrave.com.au
Goth For Life
Who knew darkness could be so fashionable? Now that you’ve seen everything the Goth world has to offer, you’re ready to get creative. Going Goth isn’t as intimidating as it looks, so don’t be afraid to switch up your style and pretend you’re a vampire – it’s all part of the fun!
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