How to Style Gothic Clothes for Women

a woman shown from the waist up with a black bob haircut and dark eyeliner wearing a black vest posing in a forest

Whether you’re a baby bat or a maven of the night, everyone can use some fresh gothic fashion inspiration now and then. We all know the struggle of facing down a closet full of black clothes and wondering how to create a showstopping new look. If you’ve summoned a gothic wardrobe and you want to figure out how to dress goth, here are some ways you can put it all together.

Casual Goth Outfits

a woman with dark curly hair stands in a doorway wearing a black t shirt over a long sleeved black and white shirt with dark jeans and a wallet chain

Black basics like t-shirts, sweaters, and jeans are all you need to put together an everyday goth look–no need to shop at specialty stores. Accessories like raven skull necklaces, goth hair clips, and spiked chokers can add a macabre touch.

Goth Clubwear

a woman with one hand raised to her red sunglasses wearing a black choker with an o-ring and a black long sleeve dress

A lot of your everyday pieces can be repurposed for the goth club with different styling. For example, a mesh shirt worn underneath a DIY cut-up tee or over a strappy crop top is perfect for the dancefloor. All it takes is an edgy accessory like a harness or a corset to bring your clothes out into the darkness.

Cute Goth Outfits

a woman in a black crop top, black arm warmers, and a pink pleated mini skirt poses in front of a blue wall with neon lights

A black midi dress with a fun, spooky print like this one from Midnight Hour always makes for an adorable whimsigoth outfit that is also super wearable. A cute skater skirt can be dressed up or down depending on what top you wear it with. Try incorporating soft pink or lilac into your ensemble for a pastel goth aesthetic, or embrace your inner gothic lolita with a black ruffle mini dress.

Everyday Goth Looks

a woman with blue streaks in her hair and a septum ring poses with one arm lifted in a black blouse and waist cincher

An everyday goth outfit can incorporate a favorite band tee, graphic tee, or hoodie with ripped jeans or tights. Go for loose 90’s jeans and oversized dark flannel for a goth grunge look. No need to get too elaborate–just mix and match your black staples with gothic clothes for a casual vibe.

Corporate Goth Outfits

a woman in a black coat and black trousers leans her face on her hand

Sometimes you have to tone it down for the normies, and that’s where corp goth looks come in. However, corporate goth is more than just “goth lite”--it’s a sleek, sophisticated aesthetic all its own. Think dark, luxurious blouses and black pencil skirts with a tailored black blazer.

Winter Goth Outfits

a woman with bangs and dark lipstick sitting on a bench in a black coat with fishnets and combat boots

The main thing you need as a cozy creature of the night is a warm, fashionable statement coat or cloak. Look for one made of natural fabrics like wool with plenty of insulation, and load up with black layers and heavy-duty combat boots. Embellishments like buckles, velvet, and embroidery will add to the goth aesthetic. (It doesn’t even have to be black! Check out this dark red coat.)

Hopefully these examples will provide some dark inspiration for your next goth outfit. Remember, gothic clothes for women are as infinite as the night itself–the only limit is your imagination!