Before our closer Peek and for the respect of the History itself: The reason I even want my guidance about the esthetic outlook to be separated between the two genders is because back in the Victorian days Men were more restricted with fashion and mostly highly formal with their dictated social norms.
Of course these rules didn’t exclude self-expression entirely as we know;) Most likely, we wouldn’t even have such high-end designer Gods developed as Tom Ford, Yves Saint Laurent or Jean Paul Gaultier right now if it wasn’t for Steampunk’s little magic!
And for what it’s worth, the list of the Symbolic men is limitless to Me!
Meanwhile, women had mostly their free will to express, still little less shown of cleavage was the code of laws publicly. Not only the dimensions of the clothes had it’s benefits. With that came the possibility to add an additional featured accessories like goggles, pocket watches, top hats, mechanical wings, and small brass gears to the outfit.
And most definitely as a cherry on a cake, some glorious beat-ass jewelry as a final complimentary;)
As for the women’s front-runner in the modern days right now, it’s definitely Vivienne Westwood who holds the title up high by still bringing the theme High-Fashionably in front of the audience!
I would be delighted to tell you guys more about the difference between the Steampunk style now and how it was done in the 19th century for example. May that be one of our Upcoming posts in the near future:) But knowing there’re no stereotypes in our progressing world, what comes to the exceptional fashion line particularly, means we have tons of aesthetic beauty in our hands to discover!
But let’s have a closer look and unwrap one of my favorite style try-outs that’s a complete mixture of old and new.
“ Old meets New” look!
What’s really great about modern-day Steampunk is that you can easily lose some of the details that feel unnecessary on some occasions by making it more convenient to wear when going out at night-time with friends or some event that has more strict dress code declared etc. With these small steps you can quickly create a completely different look for your taste!
OK, let’s start with basics from top to toe!
“ Hat as a Work of Art!”
We have an enormous amount of headgear available that plays the most significant role in the world of Steampunk. Loads of varieties are found in most of the common shops, Vintage and Second Hand stores.
Whether it’s a classic Victorian Top hat, round-shaped Derby hat or a short Brim-Top hat that I personally feel the most comfortable of wearing. The trick is to find the one for yourself that applauds the overlook of the style you picked the best way possible.
With or without ornament attachment? Completely up to you…these futuristic embellishments(goggles, metallic emblems, feathers, copper or brass decorations, small chains and the list can go on forever) are definitely the most iconic attachments that ring a bell in most people’s head when thinking about Steampunk but it’s not the only way to compliment your look:)
That being said, not a must in my opinion, unless you’re not planning to attempt a Theme-based Style party:)
More and everything you need to know about the variety of Hats there is to offer post is yet to come!;)
Meanwhile let’s move on to masks!
“The Magical Mask”
Call me a snob but that little most beautifully hand-made masterpiece has found its home inside my closet tooooo many times over the years so there’s no point to even start counting them! Sadly and quite frankly these are the only accessories that can’t get enough attention they truly deserve and only because of their practical usage in the outside world!
My personal choice has always been the most feminine picks because I do feel that the specific mask style angle serves the other elements and the look in total the maximum way! Although I can’t deny the fact that I do host a little “gas-mask” chamber collection section inside the closet of mine as well. Cause we simply never know when there’s a need:)
But if I was a newcomer, the most of the benefits I would try to get out of it would be…
- Masquerade/ Themed parties
- Photography (Really boosts up the whole aura of the photo scenery)
- In art or Fashion. Some artists and designers create Steampunk masks as wearable art, blending fashion with function.
- Raves and festivals?
- Personal use in partnership! Cause why can’t we?;) There’s not ONE person who would deny that the mask can look sensually attractive, right?
Leaving all that “non-possibilities” aside, let’s bring them back to life! Here are the most common ones we know…
Clockwork Venetian Mask
For the most elegant and refined look that blends in mystery and machinery.
Brass Gear Gas Mask
Usually adorned with brass gears, rivets, and leather straps.
Perfect for achieving that post-apocalyptic, industrial Steampunk look.
Plague Doctor mask
Leaving all that “romantic” story aside, by far my favorite mask if i had to choose, ideal for Special dark occasions. But once again, we will have a much longer stop with that futuristic equipment soon!;)
Think it’s time to dig deeper into women’s “best friend“ world!
“Jewelry, The Frame of the Neck”
As still trying to focus on the big picture, not only is it the neck, but also the hands, ears and possibly every exposed body part there is should be highlighted with these phenomenal accessories. There’s really NO RULES in Steampunk!
Means if you usually go more safe and try to make the necklace, bracelet and the ring for example work with one another, then now you can simply forget that trouble!:) Combining metals, leather, lace and even glass is The Key to that imaginative futuristic theme!
Fact that Steampunk jewelry is often hand-made, with an emphasis on customization, many people in the community create their own pieces by repurposing old watches, machinery and rare finds. This DIY aspect is a big part of the movement, allowing for unique and personalized designs to come back to life!
Personally, I tend to be more connected to the items that have a significant “romantical note” to it, than the gigantic wearable elements. But let’s have a closer look and determine the basic blings!
Necklaces, Pendants and Earrings!
What makes it more eye-catching is the distinctive elements connected to it. The most commonly used are Gears and Clock elements where the parts are encased in resin or glass. The Key and Lock attachment should be symbolizing the secrets or some hidden knowledge/messages, giving it an extremely mysterious and Victorian gothic vibe.
And let’s not forget Vial necklaces, means the small glass vials are filled with gears, tiny trinkets or colored liquids. Also Goggle-Inspired Necklaces, Vintage-Style skeleton key pendants, Victorian cameos, Mechanical wings or propellers attached to the gear, Aviation-themed items and overall just Timepiece Necklaces.
Exactly the same goes to Earrings! Everything that speaks the History basically!
Rings, Bracelets and Cuffs!
Will start wrapping up the list with the most symbolic, which is an Octopus Ring. One of Steampunk trademarks that symbolizes exploration, mystery and adventure in general. Although that type isn’t that widespread compared to rings that have compass or navigational motifs generated. As well as adjustable gear rings, that look like they’ve come out from a machine.
Also, there are fantasy-inspired Rings, featuring mythical elements, like winged designs or alchemical symbols.
And as a cherry on a cake, we have Stones and that’s more my cup of tea for sure;) Often adorned with dark-toned gemstones like garnet, amethyst or even synthetic stones to create that mysterious appearance.
Bracelets and Cuffs also play a big role as essentials. If you want your look to have that more elegant touch, then lace cuffs would be the perfect way to compliment the innovative style. Although leather as a material plus chains as add-ons is an option if your eyeing more “rusty” appearance! Especially bands with metallic or mechanical adornments such as gears, small chains or watch parts.
Speaking of chains, while some steampunk bracelets can be bold and elaborate, there are simpler designs that are suitable for everyday wear, offering a subtle touch of Steampunk to casual outfits:)
“Old Avant-Garde Fashion”
What we already cleared out and still stands is that Steampunk fashion line lets all individuals creatively combine historical and futuristic styles the way it pleases them personally! Only by allowing YOURSELF to choose the most loved self-expression through details and fantasy, you will reach the Victorious end!
We have to remind ourselves that overtime even Steampunk fashion trends change, one day it gives you more benefits to show-off, the next day you might not feel that strongly towards the Look! Then you might want to mix it with something more modest, especially if there’s a fear of hurting someone’s eye!:D But there’s ALWAYS a way with the genre, even if there’s a bare minimum of Vintage elements in use, You are already UNIQUE!
The Style I’m presenting as a featured image is a perfect example of an outfit that is casually wearable by removing some Iconic Steampunk elements that might be too overdriving for you. The scenery of the look has picks from different centuries and completely rocking the base note of Steam!
Following these next simple steps you can easily create that significant authentic look you might desire…
Can’t go wrong with Corsets!;) Only got better through time, like a good wine! Still highly appreciated in the majority of fashion lines so reachability won’t be an issue in the near future. Out of question! But back then it was almost a stamp, directing straight to Victorian high society with it’s form-fitting silhouette.
Victorian Style Shirts and Blouses are also notably doing it’s comeback in High-fashion world. These high-collared shirts with puffed sleeves and ruffled fronts are such Iconic elements of the look. Color palette was mostly neutral or earth tones like white, beige or brown. But why won’t we try purple for a change, guys!;)
As a sealing element, also historically accurate Tailcoats, Double-Breasted wool coats and Military coats and Uniforms work as a charm in that context. Trench coats and frock coats are also IN, particularly with long, flowing tails. No need to mention that high collars play an enormous key role in “outerwear”! Jummy!
Moving on to 3 most common and traditional trousers I would like to highlight. No matter are you a He or a She, it would be Victorian-Inspired Breeches that will complete the job Perfectly.
Color is so non-important in my opinion if it fits, because it’s tight around the calves and sometimes feature baggier on upper legs. Most important is that it works with other clothing items. My favorite is by far deep black, navy blue and white, had to mention…and goes to all these 3 types of trousers!
Also Historical nicely fit High-Waisted Trousers (picture above) that compliments every aspect of the outfit the highest level. Immediately brings out the beautiful silhouette to show.
But if you want to add your look more rebellious touch, Leather Pants it is!;)
Don’t forget that belts, straps, and suspenders are also “crucial” if your goal is to get that authentic trousers look.
The Lower Look
May I introduce you the Fundamentals. As for starters, beautiful pair of glorious Victorian Lace-Up Boots will “lace you up” for the scenery as well!;) If you’re lucky enough to find these rarities, please rock with them! Best bet would probably be auctions, where i got my valuable pairs. They can range from ankle-high to knee-high, which is good, in other words…whatever you prefer!
And what we also have is Ankle boots aka more knows as Chelsea boots nowadays. Type usually has a low chunky or pointed heel and often decorated with buckles, straps, or metal embellishments. Completely suitable for both men and women!
Museum Rotterdam, CC BY-SA 3.0
Last but not least, it’s High-Heeled Victorian Shoes! The heels were often curved, resembling what is known as a “Louis” or “French” heel. In the modern work it’s often replaced with higher heels or chunkier platforms, mainly for it’s harder accessibility…if not searching hard enough ofc!
Overall whether it’s worn for formal occasions or as part of an adventurer’s gear, ALL of THESE are an essential element of Steampunk style, representing both the refined beauty and rugged ingenuity.
As a “Finishing touch” let’s cover it all with one of my favorite fragrances and that is Tom Ford Black Orchid. That unique scent filled with truffle, orchid and chocolate gives the look the mystic depth it deserves!
Final words!
Those were just a couple of samples from the entire list of the Ultimate looks ABC!
We will dig deeper profoundly into all of the details in no Time!
