Since resurfacing and becoming a prevalent yet underground movement in the 1980’s, Goth subculture has developed in terms of fashion, belief and music styles. The subculture pertains to a community of free-thinkers who share the same sentiments against societal norms and popular culture.

 

There is certainly no denying the importance of fashion in the Goth community. The traditional Goth wardrobe predominantly consists of black clothing mixed with some white. Accessories are usually made of pewter or silver. You will also find corsets, full skirts, veils, fishnets, velvets and lace in the Gothic wardrobe.

 

Gothic Lolita, a popular form of Goth style, uses a collection of Victorian, Renaissance and Elizabethan fashion. Clothes are usually a combination of black and white with embellishments like lace and ribbons.

 

Cybergoth on the other hand, is another type of Goth fashion that has been infused with science fiction and futuristic ideas. Goggles, anime themes, body modification and the combination of black with neon and bright colors present the central theme of Cybergoth fashion.

 

The fact that you’re reading this article means you’re interested in knowing more about the Goth subculture. To help you learn more about Goth fashion, the following is a top ten list on Goth clothing fashion must-haves.

 

1. Corsets

 

The corset is universally popular in Goth fashion. It doesn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman, a Cybergoth or a follower of Gothic Lolita fashion, the corset is definitely one article of clothing you must have as part of your wardrobe. Gothic corsets come in different designs and colors. Some have cool silver buckles instead of ribbons for proper lacing. While other modern-Goth corsets use buttons or hooks as a way to tightly close the corset.

 

Black is the preferred corset color for most Goths, but black-trimmed red, purple, pink or white corsets are also acceptable.

 

2. Gothic Footwear

 

Black boots are the widely-accepted Gothic footwear. Unisex flat boots are fairly common, and are usually adorned with spikes or metal clasps. High-heeled, stilettos and platform boots are also very common in the Goth community. These boots are usually knee-high, although furry, ballet ankle boots are also pretty popular. Silver chains can be an excellent addition to your footwear design.

 

If you prefer going for flats, shiny leather Mary Jane’s are acceptable. A number of Cybergoths also wear Goth sneakers with skulls or dark cartoon designs.

 

3. Gothic Rings

 

Your wardrobe will not be complete without the right accessories. In Goth fashion, accessorizing is a must! Pewter and silver are popular materials for jewelry. You could try a skull ring, a skeleton ring, a crystal and pewter ring, an ankh ring and a star of Isis ring to decorate each finger on one hand. Wearing multiple rings on each hand or each finger is highly advisable.

 

4. Goth Pendants

 

As is the case with your Goth rings, Goth pendants are also highly acceptable in the Goth community. Piling on various chain necklaces with different, elaborate pendants can be a great way to complete your Goth look. The most common type of pendant used by different members of the Goth community are variations of different crosses and the famous Egyptian ankh.

 

Gothic crucifixes, skulls and tombstones are also held in high esteem. If you prefer chains on your clothing and a shorter necklace, a Gothic choker with silver spikes or even black ribbons can be the perfect addition to your wardrobe.

 

5. Gothic Clothing Accessories: Buttons and Cufflinks

 

For formal occasions or for a more subdued Goth look, you can opt to show your Goth sentiments with simple accessories like buttons and cufflinks. Huge amber or crystal buttons and cufflinks are especially delightful. You can also go for coffin, pentagram or Gothic black heart cufflinks and buttons. Silver or pewter Celtic-designed accessories are perfect for long, billowy pirate shirts.

 

6. Gothic Socks, Stocking and Garters

 

Since androgyny is fast-becoming a trend with Goth youths, perhaps it won’t be uncommon to spot males sporting long black skirts, high heels and stockings. Ribbed knee-length white socks are perfect for that schoolgirl Goth look. You can also choose to dye these pieces in different colors like gray, blue, red and even black. Wear them with Mary Jane’s, boots or high-heels for a playful look.

 

Lace, furry or ribbon stockings and garters are also considered fashion staples in Goth communities. Combine these with a ruffled dress or a lace dress for an extra dramatic effect.

 

7. Goth Veil

 

If you’re following traditional Goth fashion, the mourning veil complete with the lace hat is a fantastic accessory. Goth veils are usually black, and are sometimes worn by Goth brides as part of their wedding attire. Some Goth veils are made completely from lace and can fall to the woman’s ankles. For easy mobility, choose a Goth veil that falls to your shoulders and that can be worn back with a barrette.

 

8. Goth Makeup

 

Cybergoths and traditional Goths alike wear a lot of dark eye makeup to emphasize their eyes. Invest in black eyeliner. Liquid eyeliner is a great way to “play-around” with your eye makeup designs. You can create cobwebs or black tears under your eyes, or you can create thick, cat’s eyes with your liquid eyeliner.

 

Eye shadow is another important type of eye makeup in the Goth subculture. Although black is the predominantly used color of eye makeup, you can use pink, red and other bright colors to create contrast against your pale complexion or your black eyeliner.

 

Foundation is another great way to make your skin appear extremely pale and smooth. If you have a dark complexion, then opt for foundation that is closer to your skin tone. Although it is preferable to have pale skin in Goth fashion, you can still dress Goth minus all that cake foundation. Be as creative as you like since gothic make up does not necessarily follow a certain standard.

 

As for lipstick, rich reds, black and dark purples would certainly highlight your pout.

 

9. Cybergoth Hair Extensions

 

In the world of Cybergoth fashion, hair extensions and wigs are an important part of a person’s wardrobe. Cybergoth hair extensions are usually long, thick and braided. These are usually colorful with some of the braids in black or in dark colors.

 

Red, blue or purple and black hair extensions are worn by both men and women; some women have hair extensions that reach their waists. These can be styled to resemble pigtails, high ponytails, or can be worn down in messy layers.

 

10. Cybergoth Goggles

 

Goggles used in Cybergoth fashion are usually designed to resemble medical goggles or night vision goggles.

Large and clunky, these are usually worn as a headband. For added style, these goggles are usually made with different lens colors and designs. Some lenses have insignias like the iron cross and the biohazard symbols etched on the lenses.

 

Complete your Gothic look with great accessories and the right makeup. Show off your individuality and your style with the right Gothic clothing.