Gothic Fashion

Overview of the definition and origins of the term 'goth'

Gothic fashion is characterised by the combinations of 'black, velvet, fishnets, and leather tinged with red or purple, accessorised with tightly laces corsets, gloves, precarious stilettos and silver jewellery depicting religious or occult themes.' as stated by Ted Polhemus. The goth fashion style umbrella falls over masses of sub-genres such as; cyberpunk, deathrock, Nu goth, Dark wave, trad goth, and bubble goth. All looking overwhelmingly different to one another. So, what is the definition of goth? 'A style of rock music derived off punk, typically with apocalyptic or mystical lyrics.' This definition states that the goth was actually not originally a fashion term. 

Goth became a fashion term during the late 70's, this was due to the underground music scene that goth was apart of, this scene became more widely known and people began to dress similarly to people playing this music. The term 'goth' was actually popularised by music journalists who attended underground scenes in order to try and discover new music trends. 

Consumerism 

The 1970's and 80's is considered the golden age of the subculture, however, the style has changed considerably due to mass consumerism. Originally, the Gothic subculture was a way for someone to stand out from others and identify others. It was a community. Once the goth subculture had become main stream the fast fashion industry dug its sharp teeth into fast growing trends, cheaply mass-producing articles of clothing once deemed unique and homemade. Some may argue that this made the subculture more accessible for those attempting to replicate the Gothic style onto their own clothing. However, many disagreed; labeling those who bought from these shops as 'posers' and 'mall goths'. clearly labeling those who didn't fit the pre-consumed box which goth had fit in. Overall, goth has lost against capitalism, now a fashion style separated from any history or media it was once attached too

media

The revival of the movie the Adams family in the form of the series Wednesday has boosted the love for alternative fashion as a whole. It seems as if all clothing shops had become swallowed by alternative based fashion inspired by this series; collared shirts, long black skirts and overall the colour black has surged through the market. Quickly becoming a favourite to many shopping. 

A more recent change is the style of child star Jojo Siwa. Ditching her bright, colourful style for a kiss-style painted face. This swap caused discourse online. However, no matter how many seem to dislike this style swap; many brands seem to be catching the alternative bug. E.L.F Cosmetics x liquid death collaboration being met with good reviews from the public. 

During the 80's and 90's the Gothic subculture was ostracised for appreciating such a style. So, it is refreshing to see many view this style with positivity, fighting against any negative backlash still occuring today. Accepting others for who they choose to be.