Summer. The sun is shining, the bugs are sexually active, and everyone is marginally more damp than usual. Summer can be a challenging time for fashion– signature jackets must be cast aside and layering is practically impossible under the sweltering heat.
For goths, it can be especially challenging and you may feel tempted to limit your outfits to submit to the sun’s heat. Well, don’t! Never let the death ball in the sky prevent you from dressing like the undead angel you are.
Here are some tips to dress goth for the summer. In this article we’re going to cover:
- Maxi-length skirts
- Fishnet accessories
- Parasols
- Hats and headwear
- Waistcoats, vests, and corsets
Long, Drapey Skirts are the Ideal Sun Protection
Your first instinct in the summer heat may be to wear as few clothes as possible. I don’t blame you, but wearing long, flowy fabrics are actually better at keeping you cool. Not only are maxi skirts good for a vampiric look, the extra coverage helps protect your skin and keep you looking pale and sickly as possible.
Midi and maxi skirts are great for covering your legs and bonus: you feel like a princess while wearing them. The tiered maxi skirt is great for a regal, puffier silhouette, but it also allows for more air flow between your legs, keeping you cool.
They can be worn with tank tops, oversized band tees, or any other top of your choosing. I think they’d look excellent with some lace gloves leftover from your Misa Amane cosplay. All in all, maxi skirts are a perfect summer staple.
Fishnets can Complete Any Summer Alternative Outfit
As someone under the alternative umbrella, I am certain you know the value of fishnets and how they can change the emotion of an entire outfit. Fishnets are a great way to add an alternative charm to your outfit with minimal extra heat to your body. Opt for a pair with wider gaps between the netting for an even lighter layer.
Fishnets can be paired with absolutely anything, anywhere on your body. A common hack is to cut a hole by the crotch and toe areas to make an undershirt, a perfect layering piece for a goth or ‘alternative summer look.’
Parasols are a Must to Keep the Sun Away
Now, this section more closely aligns with Romantic or Victorian goths, but a parasol is great for sun protection and ~aesthetics~.
Add a parasol (or umbrella) to take inspiration from our Lolita friends. A parasol makes every outfit more intentional and makes you look like the kooky neighbor from a kids’ movie. What more to life is there?
Head Accessories to Keep Cool and Aesthetic
If a parasol is too loud of a statement for you, head accessories like sun hats can provide a similar effect. A wide-brim sun hat can shield your face from the sun, while making you look like a mysterious lady who may or may not have murdered her senile husband for the money.
Other accessories like veils, headbands, and hair clips are also great ways to add gothic, interesting elements to your looks. I love the look of Lolita headbands. Their ruffles and bows add a lovely feminine touch and I guarantee no one will have the same look. Especially if you make your own. However, puffy headbands are also fun. They make your hair look more voluminous and aren’t painful like those plastic ones we wore as kids.
For an even more dramatic look, try a veil to fully commit to the Frankenstein’s bride energy. Or the ‘going to your very rich husband’s funeral after he died of mysterious circumstances’ aesthetic I mentioned earlier.
Waistcoats and Vests to Work in the Office, or Attend Alternative Events
Vests are excellent pieces that add minimal heat to a shirt, or can be worn on their own. Because there’s no sleeves, your arms won’t overheat, but you can still add some extra flair to your outfits.
Waistcoats can be worn in Victorian goth or even the steampunk style. It can also be worn in a more corporate setting, if fishnet undershirts will get you in hot water with HR.
A double breasted vest can be styled up or down depending on the occasion. For a more casual styling, layer it over a sheer top and pair with a miniskirt. For those with corporate jobs, go full corpgoth with the vest. Add a flouncy blouse, tie or neck ruffle, and a brooch to the vest for a work-appropriate, yet gothic look.
You could also take inspiration from the punk subculture and go for a patch or crust-vest. This could also be a fun summer activity. Grab a denim vest (or cut the sleeves off an old denim jacket) and cover it with patches, embroidery, and pins that fit your interests.
Corsets can Subtly add Goth Flair to a Summer Outfit
Like vests and waistcoats, a corset is a more feminine interpretation. A corset is a lightweight, breathable, and fashionable accessory that anyone can pull off. It adds a vintage feel to any top or dress but can also be worn alone (as long as it covers everything that needs to be covered).
An underbust corset is a cute way to spruce up an outfit while keeping things subtle. Also, don’t feel embarrassed about looking in lingerie departments or sections for a corset or bustier. You’re more likely to find corsets in those sections than the casual top department.
Those are our tips for surviving Summer in Goth fashion!
As a reminder, there is no wrong way to be goth. So long as you listen to the music and aren’t a scumbag, the community will welcome you. Enjoy your summer of fashionable looks but remember to drink lots of water, wear sunscreen, and avoid the sun at all costs.
