Darker Fashions

Fail: 'Amelia' Skirt by Dark Star at Lady Lucretia

2012-02-23T11:28:00.000+02:00

This skirt. Well, that shade of red is fairly nice. As for the rest of it... The lace in the front looks like an apron, and in the back it's just hanging quite sadly - I simply don't understand its aesthetic value in there, and why they've decided to make it longer than the actual hem. It looks unintentional.

That band of lace down in the hem stops all the movement the (cheap-looking) velvet might have otherwise created and distorts the overall shape and proportions of the skirt. With completely different fabrics, there might have been something going on here, although still I'd fail to see this as any example of good or innovative design.

As it is, it's just frumpy, matronly, and bland.

"Oh but I love it!"

(Hippie) Gothic Daily: 'Diamond' Hoody by Plazma at Plazmalabs

2012-02-22T17:15:00.000+02:00

Easy-going everyday elegance. (I'm writing allitterations, shoot me now.) The colour is delicious, and needless to say I was immediately drawn to the - you guessed it - asymmetry and the interesting, playful cut. Not having to sacrifice comfort is always a plus with altenrative fashion.

What I don't particularly fancy about this hoody is the print, which is a surprise since usually Plazma delivers in that area. I just find the grinning smiley faces clash with the casual classiness (there I go again; with a crossbow, preferably) in an unbecoming way. They aren't horrible, but they also don't contribute to finishing touch of the garment.

Ogle at it here. Also in black.

Rivethead/Cyber Goth: 'Hellraiser' Jacket by Hell Bunny at Inspired Insanity

2012-02-20T23:18:00.000+02:00

This look has nearly the makings of a classic in the modern Gothic clothing culture, and admittedly it has earned its place there. This particular ensemble is a fairly strict interpretation of a uniform, which is perfectly acceptable, of course, if not terribly imaginative nor transformable. I worry slightly of the fabric maybe being just a bit too thin, or possibly this garment just doesn't fit the model perfectly - in any case, it looks like it requires careful ironing to be taken seriously. A wrinkled uniform is a terrible thing; unacceptable, even.

Found here.

Romantic Goth: '11W Marchioness' Corset (Top) at Excentrique

2012-02-19T21:50:00.000+02:00

Deary me, has hell frozen over or isn't this here corset top an actual corset top, in that there is both a somewhat seriously corset-like element as well as an expectations-exceeding design of a top? A closer look at the details reveals the quality as very nearly sublime. The trim is gorgeous. Great use of lace, too.

I find this Romantic Goth very nearly at it's best, and at the same time I feel this piece brings something new to that particular set of aesthetic preferences.

A fresh, clean take on romance, I'd say. More pictures here.

Rave/Cyber: 'Elliptic' Trousers by UFO at BeatDrops Closet

2012-02-17T23:34:00.000+02:00

Basic, colourful, and surprisingly enough it doesn't go all circus clown despite of the strong duo colour. In fact, these trousers manage to tackle the all too common problem of how to create interesting patterns and colour combinations on trousers and still make them at least somewhat flattering. A bold Rave person might wear these even on a daily basis.

Plenty of different colours available (red, orange, blue, and green).

EGA/ Rivethead: 'Galleon' Coat in Black Denim at Shrine

2012-02-15T11:10:00.004+02:00

Phew. Try buttoning this coat on when you're already late for work. Good thing it seems to work either way.

Practical aspects aside, the neverending row of buttons always serves as a show stopper, and when everything that surrounds said buttons is neatly in order, the eye keeps wandering from the buttons to the seamwork to the overall cut and back to the buttons.

The only thing that disturbs the harmony are the darts, which look like ther might be a problem there; given that this is presented on a doll, however, said potential problem might just fix itself when the coat is on a person.

I admit to wanting this military-inspired piece very, very much. Surprise?

Found here.

Hippie Goth? 'Colorado' Boots by Jambu at Planet Shoes

2012-02-14T13:51:00.000+02:00

Now this is an interesting, if not controversial, boots design, and I'm not sure I have my mind completely settled about it. In a way, what we are seeing here is certainly a welly, and wellies are, well, mundane. But if an alternatively fashion-oriented person wanted to or had the need to put on a pair of wellies, I believe this style would be a something to consider.

Out of the welly context, however, I find these in an odd place between elegance and almost childish design, and as such I question the versatility of these boots.

Initially, I found it very hard to picture an outfit to successfully match these boots, but now I'm slowly getting there. Still not completely certain of what style to label these as. What would you picture someone wearing these with?

In black or brown, here is where I found the picture.

Gothic Daily: 'Industrial Zip Shirt' by X-Ways at Immoral Fashion

2012-02-10T18:08:00.002+02:00

An excellent choice for daily wear, fit for a multitude of different body shapes, and versatile to the point where it actually demands a bit of accessorising (or not, if you're into minimalist expression). What I find especially satisfactory about this shirt is that the zip is real and actually opens, unlike the vast majority of similar designs. The mesh underneath is a nifty little detail.

See pictures of the same shirt worn by different models here. The price could do with being just a fraction lower, methinks, but on the other hand it does appear to be a quality item.

Neo-Rococo/ Sweet Lolita: 'ベルサイユワンピ' at Jesus Diamante

2012-02-05T19:54:00.002+02:00

The detail pictures of this dress reveal its indisputable quality, even though the aesthetics may leave some people quite cold. Still, I like the play on Rococo style combined with clear Lolita influence (and the incredibly Japanese patterns in that pink fabric). Can't seem to be able to picture anyone wearing this as everyday street clothes anywhere else than in Japan.

They have two versions available: pink with pink, and pink with black (pictured).

Goth/ Rivethead: 'Nightwish' Gown at Drac-in-a-Box

2012-01-31T17:46:00.000+02:00

Certain to turn heads, this look, even though it's, goth-wise, a bit on the safe side in design. That is to say, this look has been seen a lot. But it's a good recurrent look, if not too versatile. The window-like neckline works fantastically in a one-colour garment, and the tall collar is balanced nicely with sleevelessness so the upper part isn't too heavy.

It's full-length, see the whole piece here. I recommend the PVC version over velvet any time (although that's currently inavailable).

Visual Kei/ J-Goth: 'Chouwa Neko Joker' Striped Sweatshirt by Visual You at Lolita Kisama

2012-01-28T18:04:00.000+02:00

Very cute, if slightly messy, this everyday-style hoodie combines very nearly every classic Goth element I can think of in a quirky, carefree way. It's difficult to assess the exact quality of this piece, but there seems to be nothing particularly catastrophic going on with the execution. Clasps are nice. And the two kanji as decorative elements could have been a touch less clichéd ("hope" and "harmony"), but then again, when are they ever...

Currently sold out.

Perky Goth: 'M - 74 Dotty Dress' at Morgana Clothing

2012-01-26T19:21:00.000+02:00

Such a bubbly piece. This style has been in and out over the last decade, and I think it's easygoing and versatile enough as a look that it can easily take the whims of alternative fashion without losing its flavour. It's not incredibly special, but a stylish choice nevertheless. The underskirt is a must, by the way; no exceptions allowed.

More polka dots in black, and white, behind this link.

Neo-Victorian/ Steampunk: 'Darby' Vest at Retroscope

2012-01-25T20:36:00.000+02:00

Now, it might just be that I'm crackers about fine vests - which I am - but even with that taken into consideration, is this not a particularly fine, elegant piece of clothing right here? More asymmetry, yes, and an interesting shape at the hem; but I also find the choice of fabric interesting and, dare I say, spot-on. The shirt they have chosen to pair this up with is excellent.

Comes in black, too, here.

Gothic Daily: 'ＫＥＲＡ２月号(P21)' at Algonquins

2012-01-23T16:30:00.000+02:00

The thing with these otherwise basic trousers is the very attractive design of front pockets as well as the customisability of the fabrics, both of the trousers themselves as well as of the little dangling purse in the back. Not pickpocket-proof, that, but perhaps one might simply fill it with handkerchiefs instead of small change. Or, strolling down an empty street, perhaps your portable music player. Nothing else is very special about these trousers, but they seem wearable and functional enough.

More options for different patterns here.

Steampunk: 'CD-231 - Brown Steampunk Style Overbust Corset with Chain and Stud Detail' at Corset Story

2012-01-21T06:46:00.001+02:00

Quite stunning, although maybe just a touch too heavy with the details - they overpower each other, although not so much as if to ruin the rest of this corset since the colours maintain the harmony. I would perhaps have the studs be something lighter, or perhaps simply of a smaller size, but I aren't completely certain of that, either. A solid piece of work, nevertheless, and remarkably affordable to be made-to-order.

Click here for front and back views.

Fetish / Rivethead: 'Invader' Jacket by Tentacle Threads at Neo-Geisha X

2012-01-17T14:30:00.000+02:00

I find this an interesting cut, and while I can only imagine how hellish it must be to find something to pair it up with, I have to admit it is quite striking indeed. A hint of military influence seldom harmed anyone. The subtle differences between the two shiny fabrics add a cherry on the top, so to speak. A demanding piece, and possibly a little bit controversial, but I find it fairly successful.

Found it here.

Rivethead? 'Razor Underbust Corset Black' at Realm of Darkness

2012-01-15T23:45:00.001+02:00

This is one oddball of a corset. On one hand I like the overall style with those buckles and the slashes, and on the other hand I feel like this could have been done so much better, too. The zip is so unorthodox that I nearly like it, but I'd really like to see the back side of this piece to fully make up my mind. The upper shape I dislike, but that's just a matter of aesthetics.

Found here.

Steampunk?: 'Spring Steam Dress' at Clockwork Couture

2012-01-10T19:27:00.000+02:00

This one is tough to analyse. The site says it comes both in taupe (as pictured above) and in black, and I can't but imagine the two versions having completely different aesthetic moods to them.

Personally, I have an issue with this particular colour, especially when it's dominating the entire outfit, and had this skirt not the kind of whimsy and playfulness I find aesthetically justified in order to choose such a washed out colour, I'd be quite tempted to tag this with a Fail. I won't, however, mostly because I have every faith in the black version of this dress, of which there are no pictures available, unfortunately.

But here again is a good example of aesthetics that I don't really subscribe to, yet can somewhat understand the appeal thereof. With some indisputably Steampunky accessories, the look and feel of this garment would probably change significantly.

What do you think, o readers?

Alternative Accessories: 'Miss Blossom' Collar at Savage-Wear

2012-01-08T15:38:00.002+02:00

An unusual piece. I'm fascinated by how the fringes cascade on the collar bones, and how much space they occupy but do so lightly, due to the partial sheer effect the fringes create. The model could perhaps appear a bit more... present, but that's unrelated to the actual piece. Of course, wearing a large collar or collar-like accessory reduces the length of the neck significantly, so the rest of one's outfit must be carefully planned around it.

The colours are customizable. Here.

Corporate Goth: 'National Blazer' by Futurstate

2012-01-06T11:36:00.000+02:00

The only thing that sets this apart from a mainstream piece are the shoulder patches made of PVC, but I don't count that as a negative, since the detail is prominent enough, and this piece is great in every aspect. I also like the tight sleeves, I think they enhance the sharpness of this look.

See the front here.

New Romantic: Unnamed Outfit by GRAMM (Collection 09)

2012-01-02T14:55:00.000+02:00

I just thought this picture, as well as the outfit, were absolutely charming in every aspect. It's always good to see designers try out the less favoured lines in dressmaking, and all the accessories in this outfit are spot-on.

View the gallery here. Happy New Year!

Alternative Accessories: 'Marguerite Wreath Bonnet' in Pea Green at Metamorphose temps de fille

2011-12-26T15:45:00.003+02:00

A bit uneven in the brim, but otherwise quite charming and nicely executed, this hat comes in various colours and combinations. The chocolate one stands out in the crowd of fair tones.

Found here.

Rockabilly / Retro / Rivethead: 'Green Military Jacket with Leopard Lining' by Living Dead Souls at Secret Oktober

2011-12-21T16:16:00.000+02:00

There is something odd going on with the hem and the collar lapels, but otherwise this is a very solid piece which, while heavily military-influenced, would undoubtedly also pass for a mainstream jacket as well as alternative. The green is of a pleasant shade, the round collar works very nicely with how the "epaulettes" have been positioned (lower than shoulders, as you can see), and while the jacket could also be longer, the length as it is doesn't throw it off balance, either.

Found here.

Punk/ Deathrocker: 'Stained Turbojugend Denim Vest' by Kissin' Bombs

2011-12-16T15:09:00.000+02:00

Denim is a wicked material, the most notorious variety of it being light denim, and staining it seems to be the only possible way of incorporating any of it in a meaningful, aesthetically pleasing way in alternative fashion. This vest, I think, is a good, solid piece and looks excellent for layering, which is what Punk and its variations often favour. Indeed, layering is an easy way of enhancing the visual impact of an outfit, and when it comes to styles such as Punk or Deathrocker, the rules of mixing and matching are there mostly to be broken.

Nicely styled ensemble, too. See the back side of the vest here.

EGA/ Elegant Gothic (Lolita): 'モールＪＱ/ベロアピークドラペルゴシックコート' by Algonquins

2011-12-13T20:12:00.003+02:00

Gorgeous, approaching flawless, this long (or mid-length, depending on the person wearing it) and subtly stripy jacket both fits nicely and works that edged hem like a boss. Could do without the trim, but it doesn't break the balance nor interfere with the overall elegance, either. Very good proportions overall, and choice of buttons is spot-on. There's a lacing in the back, and it's very basic, but quite beautiful; at least someone is doing it right, which makes me happy.

Found here. (Click to view the back.) Also available in other fabrics.

Alternative Accessories: Unnamed Apron at Devil Doll

2011-12-12T14:11:00.000+02:00

Less is more, people. By this I am obviously referring to the... wonderful thing that is this catalogue picture, or the highly artistic frames thereof. Skulls, flames, and bat wings, all around the shape of a coffin. Fantastic display of taste. My soul is singing.

The item itself - the chequered apron - is very cute, and just the fact that there is an alternatively designed apron is exhilarating. Even goths like to play housemaid every once in a while. Why compromise your style just because you're doing chores?

The apron is available in a variety of prints, here.

Erotic Lolita: 'Front Ribbon Corset Mini-dress (jet black)' by Atelier Pierrot at Tokyo Rebel

2011-12-09T21:13:00.001+02:00

A bit different kind of Lolita with subtle flirtatiousness. It's very good in black, and I'm actually convinced that there isn't any other colour that would work with all the ruffles quite as well. Cream puff effect, anyone? Indeed. The ribbon would be especially overpowering in any other colour or with a pattern of any kind. So, it's a fragile design, but nice enough as it is.

Found here.

Fail: 'UV-Raver T-Shirt' by Cyberdog at Chaotic Clothing

2011-12-05T14:54:00.001+02:00

This print is a complete mess. The text is competing with the illustration, and on top of it all is the Cyberdog logo, placed apparently at random and in colours that further confuse the whole image. Personally I dislike prints where the designer or manufacturer logo is highlighted above all other elements, like you're just an unpaid walking billboard.

I guess some might fancy the style of the illustration, but to me it seems unfinished. Colourful T-shirt prints often require precision especially if presented against a predominantly black background. Doodles can definitely look great as prints, too, but this one is more like in-between and out of balance.

Found here.

Fetish: 'Alice' Body Suit by Nauclér Design

2011-12-03T22:53:00.001+02:00

I'm not sure if this is just a touch too literally Fetish wear; definitely fit for clubbing only, at the very least. But a classical Playboy reference done this well deserves a seal of approval.

I could spend some time contemplating the artistic justifications of displaying a bosom as pictured, but that would be a waste of time. This is Fetish. Some of it include bosoms on display. And bunny girls are actually quite a rare sight in Fetish wear and the scene. Besides, the sleeves and bow are pretty, and both executed and proportioned quite perfectly.

Found here.

Neo-Victorian/ Steampunk/ Goth: 'Arlington' Trousers by Steam Trunk Couture (Full Season 2011)

2011-11-30T22:46:00.001+02:00

Click the picture to view the trousers in their full elegant glory. A slightly looser fit than is customary in this style, yet the make is so exquisite that comfort does not appear to be taking away from beauty. Not the dressiest of trousers, but I'd say Neo-Victorian fashion might sometimes benefit from loosening it up a bit, right?

Found here. (Under Collections.)

Corporate Goth: 'Pyramid' Dress by Criminal Damage at Violent Delights

2011-11-28T17:48:00.001+02:00

This is a grown-up dress, and that's a compliment; such a display of maturity without neglecting the alternative nor diving face first to the all-lace style some gothically inclined people seem to fancy once they reach a certain age. The fabric is stretchy, so there is really nothing in one's midriff that this would help to conceal if that is a concern. Best on a smallish waist and perhaps a bit of curve in the hips, although a fairly straight body type wouldn't look bad in this, either, with the pyramid studs dividing the focus so nicely.

Found here.

Alternative Accessories: 'Steampunk Telephonic Rotarie Technologie Necklace' at Shrine

2011-11-25T21:04:00.001+02:00

Miniature everyday items as pieces of jewellery is, as an idea, always cute and attractive, but a lot of them forget that what sets a miniature anything apart from cheap toys is an OCD level obsession with detail. Here, said point has been well taken, as witnessed.

Another noteworthy thing here is the balance, meaning that the piece hangs just right, and when worn, no parts would be likely to turn the wrong side up. Found here.

Deathrocker/ Visual Kei: 'Broomコルセット' at Antique BeasT

2011-11-23T20:37:00.001+02:00

Despite its name, this isn't strictly speaking a corset, more like a corset top. But I find this style very attractive. Pinstripe is usually a synonym for meticulousness or fully controlled elegance, and here the fuzzy trimmings (apparently organza: potential disapproval) completely strip it off its pride and introduced chaos - with a gentle hand.

Found here. (Site mostly in Japanese.)

EGA: 'メンズシャイトロングコートワンピース' at Atelier Boz

2011-11-21T13:44:00.001+02:00

(Long coat dress 'Scheidt' - yes, it is a dress, and a coat.)

These priestly coats/dresses are tricky to execute well, and all too often an otherwise good attempt is left completely shapeless. One other thing to consider are the proportions of the torso part and the hem, which simply have to be taken into consideration when making or buying one of these. When everything is in place, such as here, one can but marvel at the seemingly effortless work.

This one comes in three colours, here.

Mainstream Meets Alternative: Jacket by Roberto Cavalli (Autumn/Winter 2011)

2011-11-18T18:45:00.000+02:00

Carefully selecting accessories and other pieces of the outfit, I think this jacket would very well be part of the wardrobe of a Rivethead (if they can get over the fact that this item is neither black nor green), or possibly a Steampunk person. The pockets are quite odd, and it's interesting how their placement changes the proportions of the jacket. A great military-inspired piece, and with some customizing could be even better!

Saw it here.

Gothic Lolita: 'Vest Style Bustle Dress (navy stripe)' by Atelier Pierrot at Tokyo Rebel

2011-11-16T14:51:00.001+02:00

Nice quality, excellent fabric choices, and sufficiently versatile, this little dress is both dramatic and cute. I'm finding it quite challenging to tag this under a very precise style, Gothic Lolita hitting the closest to home, perhaps. It depends a lot on what one would be pairing this with in terms of accessories or additional clothes such as a long-sleeved shirt - without which, by the way, this might be considered even Ero Loli. Bare shoulders and all.

The buttons are fake, for convenience's sake, but I think it would actually have been a nice finishing touch had they been functional.

Found here.

New Romantic/ Vampire Goth: 'Better Days' Shirt in White at Bizzare

2011-11-14T11:33:00.003+02:00

A union of shabby, chaotic New Romance and the classical Vampire Goth look. Everything out of place - in a good way - and the tightly laced cuffs are just darn fantastic. Perhaps a tad less stuff after the lacing would improve the look even further, or maybe sort of shredding the extra cuff to imitate the oversized ruffle. Not sure. Could.

Ogle at it here.

Steampunk: 'Steambuckless' by Bibian Blue

2011-11-11T23:11:00.000+02:00

Click to enlarge!

To make 11-11-11 special, I wanted to find something sublime, elegant, whimsical, captivating, and creative, all in one outfit. I think I did. It's not overdone, but still it's intricate, and all patterns and other elements have been painstakingly mixed and matched for the outcome to appear both conscientious and accidental. The trousers are incredibly cute, Steampunky to the core, and I think it's a more interesting choice in this outfit than a skirt most likely would have been.

The model's doing a wonderful job, too. Piece found here.

Cyber/ Rave/ (Sweet?) Lolita: 'Star Sailor Fleece' by Cyberdog

2011-11-09T13:23:00.004+02:00

Not many items cross over Cyber to somewhat-Lolita; this one, I think, does. Part of a Lolita outfit it would be unorthodox, so to speak, but who says Lolita fashion can't evolve? Anyway, I like the trims and how just the positioning, the whiteness and the fact that the trims are thicker than the rest of the fabric resemble a classic faux fur trim but choose to execute it without the fluff. A beautiful garment for keeping warm, now the days are getting cold again.

They have it in black as well, but this white one is much sweeter.

Alternative Accessories: 'Steampunk Cuff Bracelet - Watch Movement and spikes' by Daniel Proulx at CatherinetteRings

2011-11-07T00:38:00.002+02:00

This is, quite frankly, stunning. The harmony of the details and different metals of different colours, the clockwork as a cherry on the top; this piece has all that speaks Steampunk - materials, aesthetics, attitude, impulsiveness, a balance of order and chaos.

This, and more, here. Check out the rings. And everything else. See all the things!

Retro/Cabaret/New Romantic/Pin-Up/Gothic Lolita: 'Belted Vintage Inspired Jacket' at Starlets & Harlots

2011-11-03T01:17:00.001+02:00

This jacket is definitely speaking to a wide audience, I'd say even to the mainstream. The retro inspiration is there, but not overdone; the proportions are right, and even the loud bow the belt's been tied to is in the right place, not getting lost under the visual impact of the draped collar and hem. There is something odd going on with the sleeves, but of little consequence.

Available here. Another example of a massive site with plenty of clothing and accessories in many different styles, yet it's all so firmly on the femme side I can't help but feel frustrated on behalf of those of us who'd love seeing something more made for people with more masculine preferences. For a change.

Cyber: 'Tentacle Dress' by Evil Kitty

2011-10-30T20:46:00.000+02:00

This is a grand moment, for it might be the first time in the history of this blog when I see a garment, think that it resembles a sea animal/ Great Old One, and then come in the conclusion that it's a good thing. Don't know how they've done it here, but where others have failed, this one has... nailed. It. Ugh, skip that previous sentence.

So. It's a pink tentacle monster, but in a very good, attractive way. The way the dress is segmented is incredibly flattering and quite pretty, and even the bits that are hanging out seem to be in control. Purposeful.

Applause. Reminds me of The Fifth Element; the diva. Found it here.

Cyber Goth: 'HistoriTEK' Long Jacket at PlastikARMY

2011-10-27T22:59:00.001+03:00

Sensible and stylish, and borrowing a little from Baroque fashion as hinted by the name. I'm not completely certain if I fancy the collar when it's turned up like in the picture, because it's bound to look a little bit sad and floppy, especially when you walk and it bounces up and down, so keeping it folded would probably look more elegant. Oh, and nice straps in the back.

Found it here. The detail fabric is somewhat customizable. Personally I'd recommend the metallic charcoal/ black brocade.

Steampunk: 'Dieseldame bracer back Bodice' at Clockwork Couture

2011-10-24T15:22:00.000+03:00

Nice. Very nice. Also a bit problematic in practice, I would imagine, and the fit has to be just right. No folding allowed. In this colour, I'm seeing it paired with something brown. A pair of striped trousers, perhaps, or an asymmetrically ruffled Neo-Victorian skirt.

Found here.

Classic Lolita: ヴァレリアジャンパースカート (ショコラ) at Mary Magdalene

2011-10-21T22:22:00.002+03:00

A gorgeous, heavy pattern goes well with a light and sweet dress like this. Earthy colours bring some variety to sometimes overwhelming brightness of Lolita fashion; a classic style is more toned down, if not more mature, than the major part of Sweet and/or Gothic Lolita.

Pale shades of pink (as shown) and blue would probably work the best with the brown there, perhaps antique white as well. I'd recommend one didn't overcrowd the ensemble and keep all other elements low-key, free of adornments.

This dress comes in various patterns and colours. View it here.

Fail: 'When I Die' Coat by Lip Service at Violent Delights

2011-10-19T09:52:00.000+03:00

(Insert the usual "I've seen worse" disclaimer here.)

I have yet to see a full-length coat with the zip in front where the zip didn't steal the attention. If the coat is long and the zip only mid-length, it can be good or even excellent, but for some reason, this way it never works. Making it the same colour as the coat would help.

I guess the chains somehow emphasize the zip, too, and I must say I cannot understand their purpose here in any case. Shouldn't there be more? Or shouldn't they be heavier? Or maybe if you positioned them differently... no, I just cannot see it. Terribly inconvenient, anyway, to have to unfasten them every single time you put it on or take it off, and this would seem to clash with the overly functional and easy zip solution.

The model is doing their best to hide the fact that this coat is also very nearly shapeless. Can't fool us.

New Romantic/ Goth: 'Gothic shirt II' by PurPur

2011-10-17T16:55:00.002+03:00

An elegant combination of lace and PVC, impeccable finishing and romance-meets-sensible in design, this shirt is definitely a display of what alternative fashion can be at its finest. Beautifully set sleeves, too - just look at how the fabric folds and swirls as if it were chiselled in marble. Uh, black marble.

Found the item here.

Romantic Goth: 'Marianna' Skirt at Rose Mortem

2011-10-14T12:52:00.000+03:00

A wonderfully lively surface, and an interesting finish in the hem. Otherwise, there's nothing new, but no one is claiming there ought to be when you're doing the old stuff as well as this. I strongly prefer a Romantic Goth piece on the elegant side over the needs-more-lace approach.

Apparently the skirt is available in every conceivable colour, here. I wish they provided photographs of each colour option, just to be sure of the exact shade. The site suggests contrasting colour for the two layers for a dramatic effect, I say, go ahead, but exercise caution. Harmony is easier to pull off, especially in all things romantigoth.

(Neo-)Victorian: 'Henderson' Pinstripe Trousers at Historical Emporium

2011-10-11T12:33:00.001+03:00

Historically correct trouser anatomy, nice fit, and a stylish pinstripe (no, it's not a redundant thing to say - wide pinstripe, for example, usually isn't stylish at all). Daywear for some, evening for others. Don't fasten the buckle too tightly, lest you wrinkle up your back side, and that'll be the day when that kind of fashion becomes anything to aim for.

Stumbled upon it here.

Classic Lolita/ Neo-Victorian: 'Victorian Queen Noble Jacket' at Victorian maiden

2011-10-09T10:36:00.000+03:00

I see this bolero/jacket combining several historical eras as well as crossing a line between multiple styles of Lolita and Neo-Victorian. Definitely a treat, this one, although the contrast between that interesting pattern and the solid black trim is possibly a bit harsh. Then again, it is surely less severe as part of an entire outfit with perhaps some other black pieces (as presented on the site). Quite elegant, yet perhaps not entirely down the EGL/EGA alley due to the pattern.

View other colour options here. Site in Japanese.

Fail: 'Cutout Outfit II' at Cryoflesh

2011-10-07T14:43:00.000+03:00

Outfit, this? This not an outfit, silly. It's a swimsuit with a slashed front and an eye-watering 80's colour combo. Not very attractive, if relatively harmless. I understand that it often gets really hot and sweaty in a rave party, but rather than wear a swimsuit, I suggest people wear fabrics that breathe, like cotton. Or wear a swimsuit for all I care, but don't be surprised when people ask you which way the hot tub is.

One size, too. This cannot be good.

Visual Kei: Unnamed Outfit by Sixh (SS Collection 11) at S-inc

2011-10-06T13:40:00.000+03:00

An impressive outfit, from what I can make of it. (Do click the picture to enlarge.) Pirate style inspired going in the general direction of Visual Kei, with perhaps a hint of Deathrocker? Yes, perhaps. Rock on.

There is a delicate balance of mixing different textures and lengths here, which is why it is nearly imperative that this be all in one colour. Certainly it might look neat in all white, but for once I feel that black really is without question the number one choice.

View the gallery here.

Alternative Accessories: 'SH79 - G-Force / Reconstructed Military Surplus/ Men's or Women's Gray Wool Slouch Army Winter Hat' by ShtrafBat

2011-10-04T18:47:00.007+03:00

In general, finding an alternatively styled winter hat can prove quite a challenge. The finer hats rarely keep you warm, and the warm hats are nearly one hundred percent Baby Bat, complete with inverted crosses, pentagrams or even heartagrams. Shudder. This item here, however, has come to challenge the usual supply by being inescapably Rivethead and actually also warm. The down side is that it's made of wool, the use of which we disapprove strongly. In its defence, it is recycled, but still deserves a frown.

More items here.

Rockabilly: 'Judy Baby' Bomber Jacket at DollyQ

2011-10-03T18:34:00.000+03:00

Cute, versatile, and very well proportioned, this jacket also adds a much needed splash of earthy tones to the colour palette of the alternatively oriented in fashion; though I must say I would be happy to see a brighter green version as well, so it would be easier to mix with different styles. Basic garb, easy to layer. (Remember to layer!) Found here.

Classic Lolita: 'Lacy Drape Pinafore Dress' by Metamorphose temps de fille

2011-09-28T00:26:00.000+03:00

Back-to-the-basics Lolita, this dress, in all its simplicity, is actually quite a rare find nowadays as the trend has seemingly shifted towards lace trimmings instead of making it the whole point of the garment. Also, I don't think you can get more traditionally romantic than this.

All-lace dresses are often tricky in that it's very easy to just make them look like you forgot to wear the actual dress and prance around in your lingerie only; generally, I'm pro that, but I feel it's not a very good display of good taste. Here the top half definitely invokes undergarment-y associations, but the classic Lolita bell shape balances it out.

Black, white, or pale pink, here.

Rivethead/ Steampunk-ish: 'Dim Cardy Brocade Black Brown' by Aderlass at the Black Sheep

2011-09-26T20:06:00.000+03:00

Again I've found something I initially was unsure of, but grew to appreciate the more I focused on the details. It's busy, and I'm not completely sure of that particular combination of fabrics, but the cut works nicely, and the layered patches and removable straps play well together instead of clashing horribly. A tricky piece, but decent enough.

Saw it here. (Site mostly in Danish.)