Why is goth fashion called goth?

Goth fashion is called "goth" because it draws inspiration from the Gothic subculture, which itself is rooted in various historical, artistic, and musical influences associated with the term "gothic." Here's a breakdown of the origins of the term and its application to the fashion style:

Historical and Artistic Roots:

1. Gothic Architecture and Art:

   • The term "gothic" originally referred to a style of architecture that emerged in the late Middle Ages (12th-16th centuries) in Europe, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, flying buttresses, and elaborate ornamentation. Notable examples include cathedrals like Notre-Dame de Paris and Chartres Cathedral.
   • Gothic art and literature often focused on dark, mysterious, and supernatural themes. Gothic novels, such as Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" and Bram Stoker's "Dracula," explored horror, romance, and the macabre.

2. 19th-Century Gothic Revival:

   • In the 19th century, there was a revival of interest in Gothic architecture and art, known as the Gothic Revival. This movement influenced literature, art, and fashion, bringing back the dramatic and ornate elements of the original Gothic style.

Musical and Subcultural Origins:

3. Post-Punk and Goth Music:
   • In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the goth subculture emerged from the post-punk music scene. Bands like Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Cure, and Joy Division played dark, atmospheric music that resonated with themes of melancholy, existentialism, and the supernatural.
   • The music and associated aesthetic became known as "goth," borrowing the term from the historical and artistic context of Gothic architecture, art, and literature.

Fashion Influence:

4. Adoption of the Term for Fashion:
   • As the goth subculture grew, it developed a distinct fashion style characterized by dark clothing, dramatic makeup, and elements inspired by Victorian, medieval, and punk styles.
   • The fashion style was labeled "goth" to align with the subculture's name and its association with Gothic themes and aesthetics.

Elements of Goth Fashion Reflecting Gothic Themes:

• Dark and Mysterious Aesthetic: Goth fashion often features dark colors, particularly black, reflecting the somber and mysterious atmosphere of Gothic art and literature.
• Ornate and Elaborate Details: The use of lace, velvet, and intricate accessories in goth fashion echoes the elaborate ornamentation of Gothic architecture and Victorian fashion.
• Historical Influences: Victorian and medieval-inspired clothing elements in goth fashion draw directly from periods associated with Gothic Revival and original Gothic architecture.

In summary, goth fashion is called "goth" because it is deeply connected to the goth subculture, which in turn draws inspiration from the historical, artistic, and literary use of the term "gothic." The fashion style reflects the dark, mysterious, and elaborate elements associated with Gothic themes.