Goth style clothes are sexy, beautiful, and meaningful. But, these days, smart girls are unwilling to spend a small fortune on their wardrobes. And, indie girls (who tend to think for themselves) are, by definition, smart. So, let the Princess of Practicality & Creativity offer some ideas about versatile and elegant Gothic pieces.
Inexpensive Fashion
While it’s romantic (and imperative) to daydream about undying love in a fabulous alternative and money-less world, the truth (though somewhat subjective) is important to acknowledge. And, the truth is: A girl must have something to wear, but she must not blow her rent money on a longed-for corset dress or a pair of designer Victorian boots. (Same is true about not blowing her back-to-school money.)
HotTopic.com
Don’t groan. Hot Topic has become a cliché for a reason. They have cute clothes that aren’t ridiculously expensive and they take returns (see policy). When money is tight, shop at stores that accept returns. And, look for practical, inexpensive items like these:
Black Strapless Peplum Dress: Any item with a zipper is, invariably, more difficult to fit, because the fabric is less stretchy, but this frock has an elastic backing. Wear this peplum mini dress with lace tights and ankle boots for clubs or parties. Then, layer it, like a corset, over jewel-toned (or fishnet) tees and black leggings, jeans, or long skirts to make it into daywear. ($36)
Hell Bunny Corset is a versatile staple that comes with black, purple, or red ribbon lacing. ($48) It is an investment top that can be:
- Worn alone
- Worn layered over a sheer top
- Worn over a dress
- Worn with a sexy neck ruff
Tripp Long-Sleeved Fishnet Top: ($34) A girl might end up wanting to wear this daily.
Black Lace Tank Top: Change the feel of any dress or top by throwing this on over it. ($22) This tank will cover all forms of gastronomical sins.
GoodGoth.com
Good Goth has a large selection of well-priced Gothic Girl-Wear and a reasonable return policy. Try this site and save one's money for more important items like antique or new Victorian jewelry or an oil-paint shopping spree at DanielSmith.com.
Once Bitten Top: This elegant shirt is like a corset, lace top, and choker combined to form an easy-to-throw-on, last-minute blouse. ($24.95)
Stagefright Top: This black, tan, or white blouse, with ruffled front and cuffs, is aristocratic, artistic, and exceptionally functional. Wear this to work, to school, and to grandma’s Sunday dinner. Then, unbutton it a bit for a relaxed party look or leave it open and layer it over a bustier or Good Goth’s Death From Poisonous Plants lacey camisole. This comes in plus sizes.
Undead Dolli Dress: This edgy sweet dress has puffed sleeves, a satin-and-lace bodice, and a flower that is attached at the throat. If it were in yellow, baby pink, or lavender, rather than black, it would look just like a mid-century little girl’s Easter dress. The person who designed this has a chic, wry sense of humor. It’s only $39.95, but it may need short lacy gloves (in black) and Maryjanes (with lace-trimmed anklets) to continue this contorted picture of covert sexiness.
SourpussClothing.com
Sourpuss has a 30-day return policy. There is nothing more aggravating than wasting money on something that looks like ordure. Actually, many things are more aggravating, but it’s not fun to buy a horrid frock when one has limited funds. And, hey, people living on the fringe always have limited funds.
Stiletto Red/Black Stripe Blouse: This top can be zipped up (though not very far, of course) or left open a bit. It can go over, under, or whatever. And, stripes are easy to mix and match with prints. Not that anyone really cares about rules.
Miss Fortune Scarlet Fever Top: There is something so nice about knits. They always fit. This red polka-dot off-shoulder knit will flatter every woman who tries it on. ($46)
Sailor Jerry Anchor Black Beater: This tattoo-anchor shirt looks good on its own when it’s hot outside and looks good under a blouse when it’s raining. ($28) Sourpuss is an outstanding site for casual punk-Goth wear.
AngryYoungAndPoor.com
Angry Young and Poor and other sites offer many of the same styles, so drift around online to find sales. Here are some cute dresses:
Calaveras Buffalo Red Plaid Dress by Sourpuss: This looks like any other trendy plaid frock except for the 2 embroidered Calaveras Day-of-the-Dead skulls. Experiment with wearing this in different ways.
Killer Cupcakes Dress by Iron Fist: If this fits, get it. No one will tire of its subversive style. ($50)
The message for indies is the same as that which is repeated, endlessly, to silly, bubbly cheerleaders across the country: Buy basic pieces and accessorize the hell out of them. Read More:
Gothic Prom Dresses and Plus Size Goth Dresses With Corsets
Cheap Gothic Wedding Gowns & Dresses
Pyramid Stud Purses, Jewelry & Clothing
Christina Gregoire - Christina Gregoire writes about divorce, fashion, and baby boomers. Her forte is explaining complex ideas in simple language.
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