How it all started?
Protesting machine called capitalism, Punk and Rock & Roll gave birth to the new subculture – Goth. It came to life in the early 70’s in London and it is one of the few that have survived from that era. Goth music was dominant in many festivals and underground gigs but what gave it it’s full swing was the opening of the club „Batcave“. Torn fishnet stockings, dramatic colors, pale tan with heavy dark make-up and black nails could have first been seen in London clubs. These fashion trends, among many others, have stayed with Goth followers until today. „Batcave“ gave the subculture place for its rise. Many were eager to start experimenting with it so music and fashion got it’s own sub-categorization in a short period of time.
From funerals to clubs
If we want to look back to where they found the inspiration for their clothing, we need to go way back to the Victorian era; more precisely the mourning clothes that English people wore for funerals in the 19th century. Some would presume that any sub-culture such as Goth or perhaps Rock & Roll and Metal, would be just about the appearance and electric guitars but there is a lot of preparation going on behind the closed velvet curtains. Delicate lace and silk corsets who made a woman’s torso and body as beautiful and curved as a sand clock, still play a big role for goth youth and fanatics. What Goths pay a lot of attention to are the real magic of details such as skeleton necklace, big Pentagram rings or chains. They actually define the look and separate it from the original Victorian clothing.
Time is not on Goths side
It takes a lot of investment and authenticity in the style and make-up that Goths are wearing. Probably it will take one more time to actually put all the details and clothes together than the time you will spend outside wearing it which is why it is considered artistic. With details that were stated above many have prejudice that Goths are devil worshipers, on the contrary – it’s about mysticism and occultism. Anything black is acceptable, also there are variations and a range of styles within fashion from neo-Victorian, with corsets and skirts for women, to fascist chic – all heavily accessorized. Flirting with darkness is what Goth’s are winning at.
You must remember Adams family!
Morticia Adams is the definition of Goth. Her expressions alongside her clothes is what makes her movie icon to the followers. She did a good job with Wednesday, her daughter, as well. Wednesday, with her pigtails and resting bitch face, still makes is it easy to like her. She obviously got it from her mama.
Most influential people during the emerge of Goth in late 70’s and early 80’s varies from ancient or century old sources to modern and contemporary. In London at that time, most notable as helpers of development of Goth among many are Siouxsie Sioux, Marilyn Manson, Adams Family; to name just some. Siouxsie was the lead singer of the alternative rock band Siouxsie and the Banshees while Marilyn Manson is still around making amazing music.
Goth is not and will never be disco
Interesting quote that I have found while researching about the blog has a twist and great parallel pointed out by the researcher Maxim W. Furek who noted rephrase "Goth is a revolt against the slick fashions of the 1970s disco era and a protest against the colorful pastels and extravagance of the 1980s. Black hair, dark clothing and pale complexions provide the basic look of the Goth Dresser. One can paradoxically argue that the Goth look is one of deliberate overstatement as just a casual look at the heavy emphasis on dark flowing capes, ruffled cuffs, pale makeup and dyed hair demonstrate a modern-day version of late Victorian excess.” It can be argued, as Furek said, but seventies were just the beginning of a big subculture.
What happened with today’s Goths?
After introduction about the basics of Goth we can draw a thin line between the past times and modern era. Today’s Goth fashionistas kept the style, never tried to adjust to anyone or even consider changing. Respect goes out to all of you who are keeping the spirit of romance and extravagance alive.
If anyone out there who is reading this would like to add it’s own touch to this blog or comment of any sort – feel free to email us!