Gothic Aesthetic: Exploring Its Rise as a Key Trend

Corsets, bold cuts, and lengthy coats are increasingly making their mark on the streets of major urban centers. With a nod to the gothic aesthetic, fashion is shifting toward a darker palette. This transition captures a sentiment of disillusionment and showcases a break from traditional standards. Let’s dive deeper into this change.

Historical Roots

The resurgence of gothic fashion can be traced back to the punk movement of the 1970s, with a notable revival beginning in 2024. This revival was significantly fueled by the release of the series “Wednesday” in 2022. Jenna Ortega, portraying Wednesday Addams, has emerged as a fashion trailblazer, donning gothic-inspired ensembles on multiple red carpets.

Moreover, various other cultural influences have played a role in reintroducing gothic elements to contemporary fashion. Notable works include Robert Eggers’ “Nosferatu” (2024), featuring Lily-Rose Depp, Tim Burton’s remake of “Beetlejuice” (2024), and Tish Weinstock’s publication “How to Be a Goth” (Radar), released in October 2024. Additionally, the recent Palais Galliera exhibition honoring Rick Owens, a pivotal figure in the underground fashion scene, has further incited interest in gothic styles.

The modern gothic trend showcases various unique styles. Among them are “boho goth,” which merges gothic elements with bohemian vibes; “Gothic Western,” blending the allure of Johnny Cash with a darkly rebellious edge; and “goth glam,” which combines elegance with gothic motifs. These variations allow the trend to appeal to a diverse audience.

The Trend’s Progression

As we look ahead to the autumn/winter season of 2026-27, experts from Première Vision cite a new phase in the gothic aesthetic: “New Dynasties.” This concept will incorporate strikingly radical silhouettes, highlighted by dramatic, sculptural coats often in black or deep red hues.

Professionals believe that “New Dynasties” taps into a growing interest in dystopian narratives, symbolizing a world fraught with uncertainty. This theme extends into the realm of beauty, characterized by bold, even bioluminescent colors and edgy makeup styles.

The anticipated launch of Olivier Theyskens’ Boloria brand, known for romantic gothic influences, is another development expected to reinvigorate the genre. The inaugural collection is set for 2026.

Notable Statistics

According to Klarna, the platform for payments, the Goth Girl trend is experiencing significant growth, with projections for its continuation. They’ve recorded noteworthy increases in gothic jewelry: cross-shaped rings up by 85%, bat-shaped rings by 69%, and cross earrings by 120%. Additionally, the ready-to-wear segment reflects this uptick, showing an increase of 43% for corsets, 86% for fishnet bodysuits, 90% for velvet tops, and a staggering 134% for coats made from similar materials. Black lipstick is also witnessing a remarkable surge, with a 738% increase recorded within one year.