Style steeped in Goth culture

FASHION: BEEN AT EASE, THANKS TO NETFLIX

- Hein Kaiser

When there's a dark coat, a pale-ish face, black 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 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 was more than a niche, but rather a vehicle of self-expression.

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