In the early to mid 2010s pastel goth aesthetic was my aesthetic of choice. I remember how I scrolled through my Tumblr feed enjoying every shade of pastel color I could stumble upon. Pastel hair and Jeffrey Campbell shoes were my all-time favorite things, of course... Years after pastel goth fashion seems to fascinate e-fans just as effectively, as it did almost a decade ago. So, for today's post, I decided to take a small journey back in time and explore the pastel goth aesthetics at its core. Do you want to join me? So, let's dive in!
What Is a Pastel Goth Aesthetic?
Pastel goth is an aesthetic that combines the soft, sweet, and delicate elements of the pastel trend with the dark, edgy, and mysterious elements of the goth trend. It is a relatively new aesthetic, emerging in the early 2010s, and is often seen as a more feminine and approachable take on goth.
The pastel goth aesthetic is often associated with a certain attitude or mindset. Pastel goths are typically seen as being creative, unique, and independent. They are not afraid to express themselves through their fashion and pastel makeup, and they often embrace their inner darkness in a way that is both beautiful and mysterious.
- The Rise and The Rebirth of Pastel Goth Style
Pastel goth as a fashion movement emerged in the early 2010s on social media platforms like Tumblr and Pinterest and has since become increasingly popular.
There are a few reasons for the rise of pastel goth. One reason is that it offers a more feminine and approachable take on goth style. Traditional goth types can be seen as dark and intimidating, but pastel goth is more playful and fun. This makes it a more accessible style for people who are not traditionally drawn to goth.
Another reason for the rise of pastel goth is that it is a way to express individuality. Pastel goth allows people to create their own unique style that is both dark and cute. This is in contrast to traditional goths, which can be seen as more uniform.
The rebirth of pastel goth can also be attributed to the popularity of kawaii culture. Kawaii is a Japanese aesthetic that is characterized by cuteness and innocence. Pastel goth borrows some elements from kawaii, such as the use of pastel colors and sweet prints. This makes it a more appealing style for people who are interested in both goth and kawaii.
How to Dress Like a Pastel Goth?
Stepping into the world of pastel goth fashion requires a delicate balance between contrasting elements. The outfits typically feature a blend of pastel-hued garments with gothic-inspired accessories. Flowy dresses, skirts, and oversized sweaters in pastel shades form the canvas, while lace and fishnet details add a touch of dark romanticism.
Footwear often embraces chunky platforms or combat boots, lending an edgy twist to the ethereal aesthetics. Accessories play a crucial role, with chokers, harnesses, and studded jewelry offering a nod to traditional Gothic influences. The result is an ensemble that effortlessly bridges the gap between two worlds – one filled with softness and the other with mystique.
Pastel Goth and Cultural Influence
Beyond its visual appeal, the pastel goth aesthetic has also seeped into popular culture, leaving its mark on various forms of media. From music videos to fashion editorials, the delicate interplay of pastel and goth elements has found its way into the mainstream consciousness. Musicians, artists, and influencers (Melanie Martinez, Billie Eilish, Blackpink, etc.,) have embraced this style, creating a visual language that resonates with their followers.
Moreover, the pastel goth aesthetic reflects a broader cultural shift towards embracing complexity and rejecting binary definitions. It challenges the notion that one has to be exclusively dark or light, illustrating that these dualities can coexist harmoniously within a single individual.
Let's Wrap Up...
In the kaleidoscope of fashion trends, the pastel goth aesthetic stands as a testament to the ever-evolving nature of self-expression. It showcases that beauty can be found in the unexpected union of disparate elements. With its delicate pastels and dark undertones, the pastel goth aesthetic invites us to challenge norms, embrace duality, and craft a style that is uniquely our own.