As much as we all rejoice when the leaves start to fall, winter might just be the best time of year to be goth. After all, stomping around in big black boots is not only tolerated, but encouraged. Draping yourself in layers of black keeps off the winter chill, and wrapping up in a shadowy cloak is just good common sense. When the icy wind and bare trees put you in a morbid frame of mind, it’s time to break out some goth winter clothes.
Goth Outerwear
Black Peacoat
Whether you want to embrace a post punk aesthetic or a corporate goth look, a black peacoat is a timeless wardrobe staple. This longline double breasted ladies black pea coat ($198) features decorative buttons with a moon and starburst design for a subtle, celestial touch.
If you’d rather take a break from black, embrace the wine-red trend this season with this burgundy belted wool coat ($150) that will add instant elegance to any outfit.
Faux Fur Coat
Fur is back in a big way, possibly due to the ongoing resurgence of all things Y2K. Get that early 2000s style with a long coat trimmed with faux fur at the cuffs and collar like this one from Killstar ($180) featuring faux leather details and statement pentagram buttons.
Black Puffer Coat
Become an abominable snowwoman with a warm and toasty black parka. You might not think of puffer coats ($179) as being particularly goth, but they’re a necessity when the mercury falls below zero. You can always goth up a coat like this with accessories and styling, such as throwing on an ornate gothic shawl or scarf, or even a snake belt ($34).
Funnel Neck Coats
These high-fashion coats with tall, dramatic round collars are perfect for a gothic aesthetic–not to mention great for keeping away the winter chill. Find one in black, and you’ll be shrouded in a cloak of mystery. This one from J. Crew ($150) is sleek and minimal, and this jacket ($60) has that turned up collar look with belted sleeves and a cool panel detail on the front–and it comes in black, cream, and olive green.
A classic black trench coat ($89) will also have this on-trend silhouette with the collar turned up against the elements.
Black Cape
Loose, drapey outerwear is set to become a major trend for winter 2024. You can get in on the latest fashion and give it some gothic melodrama with a cape or scarf coat in a texture like wool or velvet. If you don’t want to go full Bride of Dracula, try a cape that is a bit less structured with some style and movement to it. Look for embellishments like lace and brocade.
This fur-trimmed cloak ($150) is soft and cozy, elegant enough to wear with a Victorian goth dress or dress up an everyday black outfit. Or, you could try this hooded cloak ($100) with black faux fur and a cool black moon zip closure for a witchy yet comfy option. If your style is more minimal, this fitted jacket with a built-in scarf ($55) will fit right in with your wardrobe.
Goth Sweaters
Black Turtleneck
This classic piece belongs in every goth’s closet. Go for a fitted look to create a ‘60s silhouette, or choose a loose, oversized style that feels more modern. (Plenty of chunky black turtlenecks would fit in with an ‘80s trad goth aesthetic as well.) This split-hem version ($37) is a chic, highly wearable nod to this season’s drapey silhouettes.
They go with absolutely everything–-skirts, pants, or layered under or over your summer maxi dresses. You can’t go wrong with this layering staple, and it’s easy to find black turtlenecks in thrift stores or stock up on sites like ThredUp.
Goth Christmas Sweater
Just because Halloween is over, it doesn’t mean you have to give up your spooky spirit. This black and white holiday sweater from Midnight Hour ($56) features cute reindeer skeletons, Christmas trees, and stars for a festive touch of darkness.
If you have a cheeky sense of humor, you’ll love this “Hail Santa” pullover ($38), and this cute “Have Yourself a Scary Little Christmas” sweater ($40) will have all your family members rolling their eyes–and isn’t that what the holiday season is all about?
Long Black Cardigan
A longline cardigan sweater is the perfect versatile winter piece for a goth wardrobe, easily dressing up jeans and a t-shirt or giving a sleeveless dress a cold weather makeover. For a cute and casual option, this black cardigan from Disturbia ($82) features a white embroidered design of stars, moons, and mushrooms on the back for a bit of dark cottagecore whimsy. With its flared sleeves and witchy energy, this black tie front cardigan ($60) is another spellbinding option.
For a similar look with a contemporary edge, this asymmetrical long cotton jacket ($155) features unique zipper details that let you wear it different ways for a versatile look.
Winter Accessories
Pillbox Hats
Lovers of vintage style and rockabilly dresses rejoice! Pillbox hats have been making a big comeback on the FW24 runways as part of a resurgence of sleek ‘50s glamor. Wear one with a black veil ($163) for a femme fatale vibe, or find a cute, cozy wool pillbox hat ($177) for some chic winter style.
If you’d rather shop vintage, resellers on sites like Etsy often offer real vintage pillbox hats for around $40. Nicer thrift and consignment stores might also have the pristine classic pieces you’re looking for.
Black Opera Gloves
It’s shaping up to be a season of ostentatious accessories and taking a bold approach to classic pieces. A pair of long leather opera gloves ($75+) is the ultimate winter accessory in such a dramatic fashion climate. Plus, you can basically wear them as sleeves with a short-sleeve sweater dress or other spring outfit, extending the life of your seasonal wardrobe. This pair in vegan leather ($100) features delicate white embroidery of snakes, stars, and flowers for a gothic twist on wintertime fun.
Square Scarf
From fashionista to forest witch, a square scarf matches every aesthetic. Find a dark silk scarf in a floral or paisley ($14) pattern to add a dash of visual interest to your black outfits, or go for solid colors ($13) for a more minimal approach. This subtle black dahlia print scarf ($26) comes in six different fabric options to suit your taste, or you could check out this Black Forest scarf ($27) featuring deer, leaves, and tiny red flowers on a black background for a touch of dark whimsy.
These scarves are especially suited to the midcentury glamor that’s making the rounds on the runways this season. Pair them with some cat eye sunglasses ($15) for when you want to turn heads while going incognito.
Ways to Wear a Scarf
Speaking of square scarves, there are so many ways to wear them that this single humble accessory can create a multitude of different looks. Fold it into a long “rope” and tie it at your neck or around your purse strap, or even wear it as a headband or tied around a ponytail. Or, you could fold it diagonally and tie the corners around your neck to create a “bib” effect, or just wear it draped over your shoulders.
Of course, you can tie it under your chin for a cozy wintry look that is timelessly chic, or under your hair for a casual bandana approach. (Tie it upside-down and tuck the corner under the knot in front for a 50s rockabilly spin on the idea.)
These winter goth clothes will help you express your dark style all season long. With a ravishing cloak or villain-worthy gloves from this collection, you’ll stand out from the crowd–and the snowy background. With so many great pieces to choose from, let’s hope our girl Persephone stays in the underworld for a long time this year.