Trend Report: Glam Gothic

Trend Report: Glam Gothic

Velvet, bows, lace and tulle… these pretty details have been given a new lease of life thanks to the glamourous gothic trend. Want to know more? Here, we explain the what and why behind the look, as well as how to wear it…

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What

Suzie Cave, wife of music legend Nick Cave, and founder of the brand, The Vampire’s Wife, are often cited as the catalysts for the glam gothic trend. Ever since the label’s inception in 2016, Susie’s penchant for vintage dresses and rock ‘n’ roll details have inspired a cult following, with legions of high street labels and even fellow designer names following suit. However, a quick look back at previous collections from Shrimps, or even Bella Freud, with their berry hued velvet suiting and floor-sweeping faux fur coats proves the glam gothic trend has long been around.

Why

Hyper-femininity is a concurrent trend, with tulle, lace and girly details more in vogue than ever before. But the glam gothic look is best suited to cool girls – those who want to feel womanly and romantic but without the sickly-sweet factor. Think of the designers who have championed the look –Simone Rocha, McQueen and, more recently, Khaite.

Simone Rocha, Alberta Ferreti
Simone Rocha, Alberta Ferreti

PIXELFORMULA/SIPA/SHUTTERSTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK

The gothic glam look is best suited to cool girls – those who want to feel womanly and romantic but without the sickly-sweet factor.
The Vampire's Wife
The Vampire's Wife
The gothic glam look is best suited to cool girls – those who want to feel womanly and romantic but without the sickly-sweet factor.

The Inspo

When it comes to muses, Alexa Chung and Laura Bailey instantly spring to mind – women who would wear a dramatic tulle blouse with denim or lashings of velvet with a slub tee. Also, look at the founders of the key brands for authentic examples of how to wear the look – Shrimps’ Hannah Weiland and, of course, Suzie Cave are regular champions of the style.

How

This year’s festive season aesthetic is particularly inspired by the look – velvet, which has always been prolific at Christmas, is accompanied by heavy embellishment and ruching. Bows are oversized, collars are Victorian-esque and shapes are dramatic. Even knitwear label of the year Khaite has transitioned towards the look – you’ll spot their tulle, grosgrain bow-adorned blouses and dresses everywhere this season.

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