Goth Jewelry - Part 1: Definitions and Vision

Greetings Design Fans:

October seems to be the perfect time to highlight the design of goth (gothic) jewelry. "Goth" is sometimes used (confusingly and often improperly) to denote a range of fashions adopted by many subcultures including: emo, victorian, punk, romantic, vampire, fantasy, biker, industrial, lolita, horror, steampunk, etc. If you are a part of any of these sub-cultures, you probably know the differences between them instantly and easily, and are perhaps affronted that anyone could mix them up. And more affronted when people try to mainstream your sub-culture, like what happened with steampunk. Disney, egads.

"Goth" was originally the word used to refer to those who preferred a certain type of music. However, in the late 80's and 90's "goth" came to mean those who followed a certain aesthetic, not just in music, but fashion, art, and much more. Still, as with any sensibility, there are as many motivations and variations as there are people who follow it. Part of the modern goth aesthetic is a wide tolerance for different fashions and music, with an emphasis on personal expression.

You can get an overview of the subject very rapidly by searching on 'gothic fashion' or 'alternative fashion' and browsing the images. There are blogs entirely dedicated to the subject of goth fashion and lifestyle. As usual with the internet, there is no lack of information or of inspiration, the trick, as always, is actually finding what you are looking for.

So when I started creating gothic jewelry and accessories, I looked for a focus to help me narrow in on the styles and specific variations that resonated with me; a way to pick through the inspirations and create something new, something actually different and unique. That focus turned out to be the advice of my own personal, internal goth.

My inner goth does not come out often, and is shy, but when she does speak, she has definite ideas about what quality goth jewelry looks like, feels like, and most importantly, what it represents. It is what the jewelry symbolizes, the message, the emotion, that makes up the core of my vision for gothic jewelry.

If you look inside yourself, you will probably find an "elder goth" or "baby bat" just waiting provide you your own unique fashion vision. Give that person some inspiration and images (to bite on) and see what catches your attention.

Jennifer

Image Credits:
Gothic Anachronism by Paul Stephenson, and Emilie Autumn by Murdoch666 via Creative Commons CC 2.0
Volcanic Glass Cross, Hand Gilded Silver Leaf - Lunar Blue Designs, posted in our Etsy Store September 2010