Goth fashion refers to a subculture fashion movement that emerged in the late 1970s, and is still popular today. The spelling of "goth fashion" is pronounced as /ɡɒθ ˈfæʃən/. The "g" in "goth" is pronounced as a hard "g" sound, followed by the short "o" sound. The "th" in "goth" is pronounced as the voiceless dental fricative sound, with the tongue sticking out slightly between the teeth. The word "fashion" is pronounced with a short "a" sound followed by the "sh" sound, and the second syllable is unstressed.
Goth fashion refers to a distinctive and alternative style of clothing that emerged from the gothic subculture. It is characterized by its dark and dramatic aesthetics, inspired by gothic literature, music, and art. Typically, goth fashion incorporates elements of Victorian, punk, and fetish fashion, creating a unique style that is instantly recognizable.
Goth fashion often revolves around monochromatic color palettes, with black being the dominant hue. Deep purples, dark blues, and rich reds are also commonly seen. The clothing choices tend to feature extravagant and opulent designs, with an emphasis on flowing fabrics, ruffled collars, lace, corsets, and leather accents.
Accessories play a significant role in goth fashion, with popular choices including silver jewelry adorned with crosses, skulls, bats, or other gothic symbols. Footwear often includes high-heeled boots or platform shoes, sometimes with intricate detailing or spikes. Other accessories may include chokers, fishnet stockings, fingerless gloves, and wide-brimmed hats.
Hairstyles within goth fashion also tend to be distinctive, with many goths opting for dark, dyed hair in various styles, such as long and flowing, asymmetrical cuts, or spiky styles. Makeup is typically dramatic and characterized by heavy black eyeliner, dark lipstick shades, and pale foundation.
Overall, goth fashion represents a form of self-expression for individuals associated with the gothic subculture, embracing a distinct aesthetic that is bold, dark, and unconventional. It reflects a fascination with darkness, mystery, and an appreciation for the beauty found in the macabre.
The word "goth" in the context of fashion refers to a subculture that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The term "goth" originates from the word "gothic", which initially referred to the Germanic tribes that played a significant role in the fall of the Western Roman Empire. Later, during the medieval period, "gothic" became associated with the architectural and artistic styles of that era, characterized by ornate and dark aesthetics.
In the late 1970s, the English post-punk music movement gave birth to a subculture known as "goth", which drew inspiration from various sources, including horror literature, Victorian fashion, and macabre imagery. The term "goth" was attributed to this movement due to its affinity for dark and melancholic themes and visuals, similar to the Gothic period's dark and intricate art and architecture.