Goth is a subculture that emerged in the United Kingdom in the early 1980s. It is a cultural movement that is characterized by a dark, romantic, and macabre aesthetic, and it encompasses a wide range of interests and activities, such as music, fashion, literature, and art. Goth is often associated with a fascination with death, decay, and the supernatural, and it has a strong emphasis on individualism and self-expression.
Within the goth subculture, there are many different sub-types or sub-genres, each with its own distinctive style and influences. Some of the most common types of goth include traditional goth, industrial goth, deathrock goth, and cyber goth. These different types of goth are often distinguished by their musical preferences, fashion styles, and cultural influences, and they often have their own subcultural communities and events.
While goth is a subculture that is often misunderstood or misrepresented, it is a vibrant and diverse community that continues to thrive and evolve. Whether you are a fan of traditional goth, industrial goth, deathrock goth, or cyber goth, there is a place for you within the goth subculture.
Types of Goth
Here’s an overview of some of the most common types of goth subcultures:
Traditional Goth
Traditional goth is the original form of goth, and it is characterized by a dark, romantic, and Victorian aesthetic. Traditional goth is influenced by the gothic literature of the 19th century, such as the works of Edgar Allan Poe and the Brontë sisters, and it often incorporates elements of horror, romance, and fantasy. Traditional goth is also associated with a musical style known as gothic rock, which is characterized by dark, atmospheric, and melodic sounds.
Industrial Goth
Industrial goth is a subgenre of goth that is characterized by a fusion of gothic and industrial music and culture. Industrial goth is influenced by the industrial music scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s, which was characterized by the use of electronic instruments and distorted sounds. Industrial goth is also associated with a futuristic and dystopian aesthetic, and it often incorporates elements of science fiction, cyberpunk, and fetish culture.
Deathrock Goth
Deathrock goth is a subgenre of goth that is characterized by a fusion of punk and gothic rock. Deathrock goth is influenced by the punk and horror punk scenes of the late 1970s and early 1980s, and it often incorporates elements of horror, death, and the macabre. Deathrock goth is also associated with a more aggressive and confrontational attitude, and it often incorporates elements of punk fashion, such as leather, studs, and spikes.
Cyber Goths
Cyber goth is a subgenre of goth that is characterized by a fusion of gothic and cyberpunk culture. Cyber goth is influenced by the cyberpunk science fiction genre, which explores the impact of technology on society and the individual. Cyber goth is also associated with a futuristic and technological aesthetic, and it often incorporates elements of rave culture, such as neon colors, glow sticks, and electronic music.
Romantic Goth
Romantic goths appreciate the dark, sensual, and mysterious world of the gothic subculture. Usually conceived by early Victorian literature.
It’s no surprise, then, that they wear lots of Gothic Victorian clothing. Romantic goths prefer velvet and lace, flowy crowns, and the love of poetry and literature.
These goth types add a splash of color to the normally dark shades of clothing. For example, red, orange, green, or purple highlights.
Pastel Goth
Pastel goth types combine the hard edges of gothic fashion, with the soft pastels of the Kawaii fashion subcultures. Pastel goth clothing is a recent trend.
Hippie Goths
These types of Goths are in tune with dark religions and their environment. Hippie goths enjoy dark styles, with lots of imagery and symbols from the occult world and pagan religions.
Vampire Goths
Vampire goths aim to replicate vampire-like features. They wear dark hair, and dark makeup. Pointed fingernails, tattoos, and piercings also complement the look. And, of course, they’re also the vampire teeth.
Bubble Goth
Bubble Goth is a newer type of goth influenced by the Estonian pop singer, Kerli Koiv. Her aim is to “make the beautiful, creepy and the creepy, beautiful”. Something that “takes light and dark and puts them together”
Tribal Goths
The tribal goths emerged when belly dancing was popular. Their fashion style exhibits a blend of belly dancing and traditional goths styles.
Gothic Lolita
A gothic/lolita subculture with darker clothing and make-up. But, colors are not limited to black. Mana, a Japanese musician, popularized this type of goth style.
Casual Goth
Casual Goth types are laidback. Most dress in casual black or black with bits of red clothing. These goths also accessorize with fingerless gloves and skulls.
The Bottom Line
No matter what type of goth subculture you are interested in, there is a place for you within the goth subculture. Goth is a diverse and dynamic movement that continues to evolve and thrive, and it offers a wide range of opportunities for self-expression and community. Whether you are a fan of traditional goth, industrial goth, deathrock goth, or cyber goth, there is a goth subculture that will suit your interests and preferences.
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