As the equinox approaches, it’s time to layer up with long-sleeved blouses and cozy sweaters to greet the chill in the air. For a gothic spin on fall attire, look no further than a lacy, feminine Victorian blouse. These versatile blouses can be worn with a maxi skirt for a vampy Victorian aesthetic, or a midi or pencil skirt at the office–and even dressed down with a pair of jeans. They also work well with corset tops for a layered ensemble rich with historical details. Browse this curated selection of elegant vintage-inspired blouses to find your perfect fit:
Black Victorian Blouses
Layer lovers rejoice! This sheer black ruffle shirt ($54) would look ravishing with a lacy bralette or bodice. It’s the little touches that make this piece magical–check out those adorable silver bee buttons. Or for a blouse that is dark and gothic yet comfortable enough to wear every day, this one ($53) in black cotton from Historical Emporium has all the perfect period details like a stand up collar, gathered sleeves, pleated bib, and buttons. Channel your inner evil governess with this beautiful and practical piece.
If you want a bold take on a Victorian silhouette, this black sweater ($98) has dramatic leg-of-mutton sleeves and removable shoulder pads, with narrow tapered lower sleeves and a high collar. Classic yet striking, this lightweight sweater is Suffragette-chic. If your taste tends toward the vampiric, this cravat-tie blouse ($109) has all the dark romanticism you crave, with lace-trimmed cuffs and a decadent high collar.
White Victorian Blouses
For maximum authenticity, this white cotton blouse ($59) from Historical Emporium nails all the details, from the ruffled lace front to the ribbon-trimmed cuffs. If you can’t get enough ruffles, this romantic Victorian number ($80) has them all down the front, on the collar, and the cuffs, along with white buttons and a dreamy, loose silhouette perfect for tucking into a long skirt. It also comes in black and cream, so you can get one to match every mood.
Luscious silk charmeuse is the star of the show in this dramatic blouse ($132) from La Femme en Noir. You’ll swoon for the full sleeves with long, buttoned cuffs and the neck sash that can be tied in a bow or worn loose for a cravat look.
For a ghostly, nightgown-inspired look, this long tie-front blouse ($68) from Disturbia has the haunted vibe you’ve been looking for. It has crinkled sheer fabric in soft ivory and a loose fit perfect for layering.
Plus Size Victorian Blouses
This beautiful black taffeta blouse ($108) from La Femme en Noir comes in sizes up to 4X. The fabric has a subtle iridescent shine perfect for making an all-black outfit pop. (And it also comes in rich crimson red for an added dose of drama.) Whether your aesthetic is sleek and modern or historically inspired, this gorgeous blouse is a keeper for sure.
For an inexpensive find, you can’t beat this pleated white Victorian button-up blouse ($35) that is available in US sizes 2-20. With a stand up collar, pearl buttons, and ladylike pleats, this blouse goes with practically anything, and it comes in a variety of pretty styles–and classic black.
Victorian style and comfort combine in this cravat-style jabot collar blouse ($57) in lightweight cotton linen. These high-quality blouses are made to order and available in a lot of customizable colors and sizes up to US 26–and they would look stellar with an underbust corset.
Lace Blouses
Lacy textures are having a major moment, so if you’ve been wanting a long sleeve black lace top, there are a lot of them in stores to choose from. This lace blouse ($27) has a very unique crochet pattern and decorative pearl and gold buttons. In addition to black and white, it also comes in soft pink, navy, emerald, apricot, and moss green–and it’s such a steal you might want more than just one.
If you’re a true lace lover, this pretty floral lace blouse ($31) with subtle gathered sleeves and a high neckline will take you from summer to fall, and it even has a cami to wear underneath. In addition to black and white, it comes in beige, deep red, rose, purple, hot pink, pale blue–and more. A must for layered outfits.
What’s the best thing about Victorian blouses? If you answered ruffles, then this white lace blouse ($36) is the one for you. With lacy ruffles at the shoulders, cuffs, and collar and subtle polka dot mesh sleeves, this button-down blouse is a dream come true. Plus, it laces up in the back for a corseted silhouette. It’s also available in black, pink, and light brown to suit every style.
For a more luxurious option, this embroidered white lace blouse ($87) is so intricate you won’t be able to stop touching its fabulous frills. It’s made from soft cotton so you’ll stay cool and comfortable no matter where your day takes you.
Chiffon Blouses
Flowy, sheer chiffon is a perfect addition to a gothic wardrobe. A lightweight chiffon blouse like this one ($40) with puff sleeves and a high collar is casual enough to wear with jeans while still giving you a Victorian look that would pair beautifully with a long skirt. It also comes in a rainbow of solid colors so you’re sure to find one that fits your mood.
If you’re a poet at heart, this black chiffon poet shirt ($65) is loose and transparent, with gathered bishop sleeves and a long ribbon tie at the collar. It’s gothic, it’s romantic, it’s professional–frankly, this blouse is everything.
How to Accessorize a Victorian Blouse
Once you’ve chosen your perfect time travel-worthy Victorian blouse, it’s time to pick out some elegant accessories to go with it. One classic piece is a cameo brooch ($22) to wear at the front of your high collar, or a collar pin ($25) for a blouse with a split collar (you can also wear collar pins as a “two level” brooch on one side of your chest for a different look.) This bronze raven skull brooch ($16) has a touch of gothic flair if you want to give those lace frills some edge. A simple string of pearls ($101) always looks wonderful nestled among ribbons and lace as well.
A rich, patterned shawl like this one ($45) worn over your shoulders accentuates a plain white or black blouse and keeps you cozy once the weather gets chilly. A high-collared blouse is also perfect for showing off a black bow tie ($30) or delicate velvet ribbon ($22). A pair of dainty black lace gloves pulls the whole look together.
Corsetry is the next step in creating layered looks with your Victorian blouse. Choose a 19th-century-style corset ($41) in a color or pattern that will accentuate a variety of outfits–this one comes in white and black. If you want to accentuate your waist without the full corset look, a corset belt ($121) like this handcrafted leather one is a great option. A leather harness ($50) will also give you that polished, corseted look without having to lace up.
Steampunk Accessories
For a steampunk aesthetic, a pocket watch pin or necklace ($28) is a fun nod to the genre while also being practical. This lapel pin ($12) in the shape of antique bronze clock gears would also be a subtle touch for fans of steam-powered sci-fi. And what voyager from the past’s outfit is complete without a steampunk top hat ($39) with goggles and gears?
These billowy Victorian blouses and eye-catching accessories will help you embrace a gothic heroine aesthetic this autumn. Whether you’re looking for a fresh, feminine white blouse or deep and gothic black, there’s sure to be something here to delight your sense of dark mystique. For even more vintage-inspired elegance, explore these gothic Victorian dresses, and take a step back in time.