Cultural turn sees Gothic look return

INDIVIDUALITY IS IN: MOVING AWAY FROM MASS TRENDS

- Hein Kaiser

When there's a dark coat, a pale face, black from tip to toe and an austere, angelic beauty to an ensemble, it's got its roots in Goth culture.

It's not about depression, it's not an outward projection of anxiety either. Instead it's quiet rebellion that has its roots in the post-punk aggression of loudness.

And fashion-wise, the Goth look hasn't died. It's just been at ease. But thanks to film director Tim Burton and the Netflix Wednesday series, new releases by The Cure and Bauhaus' Peter Murphy, the culture of dusk is back, adapted to modern sensibility.

Doctor J, founder of locally distributed brand Punk Rave, said gothic style is more than a niche; it's a vehicle of self-expression.

"This isn't just about clothes," she said. "It's about creating a look that feels true to a personality. Gothic fashion has always had that independent streak."