How to Wear Goth Aesthetic, Clothes, and Outfits

From being spotted on some of fashion’s most beloved It girls — like Billie Eilish, Rihanna, and Lori Harvey — to taking over designer runways, the goth aesthetic has officially made a formidable comeback among the street style set. The trend has gained popularity among fashion influencers and tastemakers alike, while household luxury brands like Rick Owens have nailed the goth aesthetic with its iconic Drkshdw collection.

Other notable designers have also embraced the goth aesthetic. For fall 2022, Valentino sent models like Adut Akech down the Barbiecore-inspired runway in monochromatic black ensembles with exaggerated silhouettes, including off-the-shoulder sculpted gowns accompanied by gloves and leather mini bags. Givenchy, Chloe, and Balenciaga also championed the budding trend in their fall 2022 collections with black pieces that ranged from all-leather looks with corset detailing to huge, high-waisted leather skirts with unconventional belts.

If you’re going for a casual yet stylish outfit, simply wear a leather jacket and a black co-ord set, and finish off with chunky boots to channel the goth aesthetic. Another option: slip into a black turtleneck and voluminous skirt for those days when you want to make a chic style statement.

What Is the Goth Aesthetic?

The goth aesthetic often channels dark, monochromatic outfits. It typically embraces a layered look that can include staples like leather jackets, platform boots, and dark makeup. Centered around the classic color black, the subculture started in the UK during the early 1980s, created by fans of gothic rock music who also drew inspiration from horror films and gothic fiction. Goth-inspired outfits are primarily marked by textures like velvet, lace, fishnets, and leather in all black. The eerie look is often accompanied by silver jewelry for added visual interest.

If the aesthetic resonates with you, express your inner goth style with these pieces ahead.