I’ve always found the Goth subculture fascinating, but never really explored it until now. Growing up with a Goth cousin—though I didn’t realize it at the time and just thought he liked vampires—he introduced me to the music in middle school, which has been my go-to ever since. This year, while researching vampire fashion for Halloween, I fell deep into the Goth rabbit hole. I’ve listened to Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, Sisters of Mercy, and The Cure while sewing skirts and dresses I make. I want to create a beautiful Gothic dress for Halloween and maybe start dressing Goth. Would my music taste make me Goth? If I started dressing Goth, would I seem like a poseur since I’m only now taking an interest as an adult? Coming from a southern Christian background, I was told it was devil worship, which kept me from looking into it. However, after meeting Goth people during my time in the military, I learned my family’s views were simply wrong. I want to consider myself Goth, but I don’t know much about the subculture.

I was walking out of a store once and a woman literally cackled and yelled “DAYUM! LOOK! IT’S MORTICIA!”
I wanted to laugh back and say “Look! It’s an obese woman on a scooter!” but I am classier than that.

i have always really loved the goth aesthetic, and I recently gave goth music a try and have fallen absolutely in love with it! i want to start dressing goth, but it seems so hard to find clothes that fit in this style

it feels like whenever I go thrifting, the only clothes I find in my size are the same flowy, bright, floral-patterned tops and like basic blue jeans with one, maybe two good tops in black if I'm lucky

i also just have no idea how to approach DIYing clothes, though i saw there's an intro guide on that in r/goth. so I guess I am curious where you ladies are shopping for clothes that fit your style? should I keep trying to thrift where I can, or would i be better off just taking what I can get at normal stores and learning to diy asap?

I'm looking for dark romantic clothing from an independent brand where the aesthetic is part of their actual identity not a large label that tacked on a romantic filler.
Where do you shop for dark romantic style when you want to support independent fashion?

I need your help. Your opinion on this design? A bit of background:

I’ve been working on it for a very long time. I finished his design a month ago, but I’m now worried: does he actually fit into the goth subculture?
His makeup incorporates elements inspired by the Eye of Horus (Wadjet), a motif I’ve often noticed in Goth makeup, particularly on r/GothFashion. However, after watching Angela Benedict’s yt shorts “Goths Don't All Look Alike. Fakes Do,” I began worrying that I might have created a “poser Goth” and unintentionally offended the community. I want to approach Goth culture respectfully, so I’d appreciate your thoughts on whether his appearance and musical tastes fit the subculture.

Character information
Age: 14-16.
Core concept: He explores the destructive potential of aggression. He struggles to control his temper and fears that his impulses could lead him to hurt others, especially those he cares about. However, he recognizes the problem and is trying to change.

Inspiration: The Baccara rose, which shifts from bright red to deep burgundy as it blooms. Its dark coloring inspired me to use it as the basis for a goth-themed character.

Personality: Aggressive, courageous, and caring. Rather than using the stereotypical image of a "withdrawn, cold, and lonely goth", I wanted him to be "expressive, impulsive, and open to meeting new people". He could be described as an ESTP 4w5, if that helps.

Lifestyle and design: He’s a nomad who occasionally fights monsters. I avoided traditional clothing to keep his movements unrestricted in combat and his design consistent with the universe. I considered adding mesh sleeves, accessories, or a long cloak, but I’m concerned about overcomplicating the design. I’m currently leaning toward a practical, form-fitting black suit for protection (references below).

Music: I’m still figuring out his musical tastes, so I’ve put together a playlist of songs that remind me of him. When listening, please focus on the sound rather than the lyrics. As a non-native English speaker, I chose these tracks mainly for their sound and the atmosphere they evoke, rather than their lyrical meaning.

Now that you’ve read everything, what do you think? Thank you for your attention! I’d really appreciate any thoughts or suggestions. Have a great day! 🖤