Gothic is a mysterious and intriguing trend in jewelry. It appeals to the old and young, men and women, avid fashionistas and those who prefer to dress in a plain manner. But how much do we actually know about this peculiar trend?
Old-Fashion and New School Gothic
Originally, it occurred in France in the XII century. Its appearance is the result of the aggregate influence of the first institutions, urban communes, and the crusades. At first, the trend affected architecture. Then, it became a dominating power in sculpture, painting and other forms of art. Only after that, it started to shape the world of applied art including clothing and jewelry.
Surprisingly, more than half a millennium later since the time of its origin, Gothic is still a hot topic. However, today the historical and modern meanings of this concept are totally different. While in its earlier day Gothic was intertwined with architecture and the Catholic faith, now it is associated with heavy music and subcultures. At the moment, this style is known for its gloomy emotional color, pessimistic outlook, and somewhat depressing attitude. You can easily recognize those who revere modern Gothic by their outrageous appearance, which building blocks are piercings, black clothes, daring hairstyles and makeup, and predominance of accessories.
Different Sides of Gothic
In laymen’s eyes, gothic is nothing but an amalgamation of hard rock, studs, dark outfits, and heavy makeup. But this perception of Gothic can come only from those who know nothing about the fashion trend, let alone the people who adore it. The truth is that modern Gothic is as different as it can be, and separate types of Gothic are so dissimilar in comparison that it’s impossible to believe that they belong to the same trend.
There are dozens, if not hundreds, types of Gothic. Many of them are relevant only to a handful of people while others have huge armies of followers from all over the world. The study of the sub-trends of Gothic can be the topic of a dissertation. Here, we’ll list just a few types that are the most influential and popular.
Renaissance. Despite black being the golden standard of Gothic, Renaissance Goths don’t shy away from white. When it comes to their jewelry, it is not only silver (with stainless steel, titanium, and tungsten being common for pieces on the cheaper side) but also gold. At the same time, it is often adorned with precious stones. Thanks to the penchant for precious and valuable, Renaissance Gothic jewelry isn’t just gloomy, it is also luxurious.
Androgynous Goth. Jewelry for this subdivision of Gothic is made to be unisex so that boys, girls, and everyone in between could use it to complete their looks. These jewelry items are less ornate and sophisticated than Renaissance ones. Instead, they are intentionally large, loud, and eye-catching. Silver gothic rings that showcase this style often carry floral or geometric patterns, animal motifs, stud-like inlays, as well as gems of a monochrome color palette.
Fetish Goth. Jewelry in this style is even more simplistic. Instead, it puts an accent on everything that is associated with fetish and sexual delights. Its most popular motifs are handcuffs, dog tags, spikes and studs, and the materials are rather inexpensive (faux leather, stainless steel, and even rubber and plastic). Simultaneously, symbols that represent magic are also common in this style.
Vampire Goth. As the name suggests, every symbol that is associated with vampires, death, and the supernatural lay the foundation of this style’s means of self-expression.
Regardless of a specific sub-style, Gothic jewelry enjoys dark and white colors (pops of color are possible as well but these are inevitably in the cold spectrum). Along with that, the recurring themes in rings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets, and all that jazz are skulls, crosses, daggers, snakes, dragons, roses, and crowns.
How to Wear Gothic Jewelry
Despite all of their outrageousness, gothic accessories do not always imply matching clothing. Of course, if you are part of the Goth subculture, the combination of the same-style jewelry and attire will pack the most powerful punch. However, to wear Gothic and Goth accessories with aplomb, it is not at all necessary to become a Goth. Modern fashion makes it possible to fuse different styles of clothing and jewelry in the same look.
For example, to the lace, leather, and velvet inserts in your outfits, you can add a chain necklace or bracelet featuring large links, a skull ring, or an intriguing pendant. Surely, this style is hardly suitable for work or formal events, but it is awesome for wearing casually outside the confinement of the office.
The bottom line, if you enjoy a daring and bold style, adding gothic features to your image is a great idea. But it is important not to go overboard if you don’t wish to look like an avid Goth. Pick an item or two (but smaller ones) if you wish to spruce up your everyday style with something leftfield. Your style will remain restrained but too far from being boring.