What is Whimsigoth?
Whimsigoth, or whimsy goth, is a movement, which emerged in the 1990s and has experienced a resurgence in various forms over the years. This movement has been influenced by a mix of public figures, fashion designers, and cultural moments. Here are some key influences to look to as you begin your whimsigoth journey and begin to conceptualize what it looks like in your life.
Musicians and Bands:
The music scene, particularly gothic rock and alternative bands, played a crucial role in shaping whimsigoth style. Stevie Nicks, the iconic Fleetwood Mac vocalist, is often associated with whimsigoth, although her career and stage persona predate the term. Her influence on whimsigoth lies in her unique blend of bohemian and mystical fashion, her ethereal stage presence, and her lyrical themes that often touch on romance, mysticism, and fantasy.
Fashion Designers:
Designers who embrace gothic, Victorian, and romantic elements in their collections also play a key role in shaping the whimsigoth aesthetic. The work of Alexander McQueen, for example, often features elaborate, gothic-inspired designs that resonate with the whimsigoth style.
Film and Television:
Whimsigoth styling started in the 90’s, as themes of witches and magic entered the mainstream with movies like Practical Magic and the Craft, and TV shows like Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Even Phoebe Buffay from Friends provides an example for this witchy style. Today, these nostalgic roles still inspire whimsigoth followers.
Authors and Literary Works:
The whimsigoth movement also drew inspiration from gothic and romantic literature. Authors who embraced dark, romantic storytelling, like Edgar Allan Poe and Bram Stoker, provide a rich backdrop for the whimsigoth aesthetic.
Visual Artists:
Artists who delved into dark, romantic, and mystical themes in their artwork influenced the whimsigoth aesthetic as well. The Pre-Raphaelite artists, for example, while predating the movement by many years, had a lingering influence on its visual style.
It's important to note that whimsigoth, like many subcultural styles, is not the creation of single individuals but rather a collective and evolving aesthetic shaped by various artists, cultural movements, and its own community. The style continues to evolve, drawing inspiration from historical elements while integrating contemporary influences.
Whimsigoth Interior Decor
Whimsigoth is often a lifestyle choice as much as a personal style, and extends to home décor. The trick is to pair subtle gothic staples with light, airy motifs and focal points. Light sources, like candles, lamps, windows, or even crystals, should all be ambient, creating a sense of cozy warmth but also mysticism. Since whimsigoth is also a 90’s staple, lean into this era and find elements reminiscent of the time period it started- jewel tone color schemes, stuffed animals, or acrylic furniture.
Dark feminine styling
Whimsigoth, a style that emerged in the 1990’s, is often regarded as a hyper-feminine aesthetic, and this perception can be attributed to several key elements. Firstly, it heavily incorporates Victorian and Gothic influences, both of which are associated with a certain romantic, almost theatrical femininity. The Victorian era, known for its intricate and elaborate fashion, lends a sense of delicate intricacy to the style. Gothic influences, meanwhile, bring a darker, mysterious, and romantic vibe, often intertwined with concepts of beauty and femininity in traditional literature and art.
Another factor contributing to the hyper-feminine nature of whimsigoth is its emphasis on textiles and fashion elements that are traditionally viewed as feminine. Lace, velvet, and silk, commonly used in whimsigoth attire and decor, are fabrics with a soft, sensual appeal and a strong association with femininity. The frequent use of corsetry, a historical symbol of the female silhouette, also plays into this perception.
Furthermore, whimsigoth embraces a mystical, ethereal quality that is often linked to feminine archetypes in folklore and mythology. This includes an affinity for nature, the mystical, and the spiritual, often embodied in female forms in various cultures' storytelling. The whimsical aspect of whimsigoth, which evokes a fairy-tale-like, dreamy ambiance, aligns with traditional notions of femininity that emphasize grace, elegance, and a connection to the natural and mystical worlds.
Lastly, the community and culture around whimsigoth often celebrate and emphasize feminine forms of expression and empowerment. This creates a space where femininity is not just represented in style and aesthetics but also celebrated as a form of personal and collective identity. This celebration of femininity in diverse forms further solidifies whimsigoth's reputation as a hyper-feminine styling.
How to Style Whimsigoth:
Thrifted furniture:
thrifted furniture is a great way to achieve the look for whimsy goth. Don’t be afraid to choose a piece that looks like it has lived a previous life. Of course, you can opt for darker pieces, but don’t forget whimsigoth allows for pops of colors to brighten up spaces and bring new life to them.
Bookshelves:
Of course, academia is an element of many darker or mystical styles, so do not shy away from keeping books on your bookshelves. However, this is also an excellent way to display different trinkets, knicknacks, or personal collections. Crystals, figurines, and other cute collectables all fit into the aesthetic.
Plant Centric Decor:
Given the sustainable nature of whimsigoth styling, as well as the focus on finding connection with the natural worlds, it only makes sense that interiors feature plant forward biophilic design.
If you are striving to create a more ambient mood, grow lights are a perfect option because they will allow you to create draped or moody spaces without having to worry about your plants receiving optimal lighting. The Grove™ grow bar light is a great option, since it has a dimming option as well as touch power controls.
Textiles:
Textiles are a great way to introduce textures and patterns into a space. Find a bold design, or go for something more subtle to build character in a neutral way. Textiles can be added by way of pillows, rugs, or blankets. You can of course also get a tapestry or some other decorative cloth element.
Mirrors:
Mirrors are an excellent option for creating a whimsy goth space. They can reflect space and make a space feel larger, without having to expand the room through renovation. Mirrors can also be styled, and come with unique frames or additional lighting. Finding a unique vanity gives you additional space to display decor elements- try finding dramatic cosmetic bottles or accessories to use as decorations as well as steps in your getting ready routine.
Decorative Lamps and Lighting:
Use decorative lamps to round out the lighting in your whimsy goth space. Ambient light is great, and can be managed to suit your aesthetic needs. We recommend using a Vita™ grow bulb if you want to grow plants underneath its rays.
Vintage or Antique Dresser:
A vintage or antique dresser, preferably in dark wood, with intricate carvings or ornate handles, adds a sense of timelessness and elegance. The aged look contributes to the overall mystical theme.
Whimsigoth Lifestyle
Pets:
Whimsigoth, as a lifestyle choice, extends beyond fashion and decor into various aspects of daily living, including the choice of pets. This subculture, characterized by its love for the mystical, romantic, and ethereal, often sees its adherents drawn to pets that embody or complement these qualities.
Cats, Especially Black Cats:
Cats, particularly black cats, are a popular choice among those who identify with whimsigoth. Black cats have long been associated with mystery, magic, and folklore, making them a natural fit for this aesthetic. They are often seen as mystical creatures with an air of enigmatic charm, perfectly aligning with the whimsigoth ambiance.
Exotic Birds:
Birds, particularly exotic or unusual ones like ravens or crows, also resonate with the whimsigoth lifestyle. These birds, often associated with folklore and myth, can add an air of mystery and otherworldliness to the whimsigoth home.
Reptiles and Amphibians:
Snakes, lizards, and even certain types of frogs can be considered whimsigoth pets. Their unique, often misunderstood nature aligns well with the subculture's appreciation for the unconventional and the mystical.
Small Mammals:
Small, nocturnal mammals like ferrets or chinchillas can also fit into the whimsigoth lifestyle. Their unique behaviors and nocturnal nature can add an element of the unusual and mysterious to a whimsigoth home.
It's important to note that while these pets can complement the whimsigoth lifestyle, the decision to care for an animal should always be based on the ability to provide a loving, safe, and appropriate environment for the pet. Whimsigoth enthusiasts typically value a deep connection with nature and often have a profound respect for the well-being and ethical treatment of animals.
Nature and Gardening:
A connection to nature is often emphasized, with an interest in gardening, especially of plants that are seen as mystical or ancient. Herbalism and an appreciation for the natural world are common, aligning with the style's romantic and earthy elements.
Gothic and Mystical Gardens:
Whimsigoth gardening often involves creating spaces that feel both enchanting and slightly mysterious. This might include gardens with winding paths, overgrown foliage, and a slightly wild, untamed appearance. The use of plants with dark foliage or flowers, like black roses, violets, and ferns, contributes to a gothic ambience. Moon gardens, featuring white or night-blooming plants that glow under moonlight, are also popular.
Herbalism and Botanicals:
Many whimsigoth enthusiasts are drawn to the study and use of herbs and plants for their aesthetic, medicinal, or mystical properties. This can involve growing herbs like lavender, sage, and rosemary, which are believed to have both healing properties and spiritual significance. Herbalism in whimsigoth is often intertwined with practices like making teas, tinctures, or incense for health, relaxation, or ritual purposes.
Indoor Plants and Terrariums:
Indoor gardening is another aspect, where plants become part of the interior decor. Victorian-style terrariums, housing ferns and mosses, are particularly in line with whimsigoth aesthetics. These miniature gardens not only bring nature indoors but also add to the mystical atmosphere of the living space.
Symbolic and Mythical Plants:
In whimsigoth gardening, plants are often chosen for their symbolic meanings or mythical associations. This might include plants that are traditionally associated with magic and folklore, such as belladonna, foxglove, and mandrake. However, the use of such plants is more symbolic than practical, due to their toxic properties.
Connection to the Seasons and Cycles:
There's a strong emphasis on aligning with the natural cycles and seasons. This means gardening practices that are in harmony with the rhythm of nature, such as planting and harvesting according to seasonal changes. It also includes celebrating seasonal festivals that mark changes in the natural world.
Sustainable and Organic Practices:
The whimsigoth lifestyle often promotes sustainability and respect for the earth. This translates into organic gardening practices, avoiding harmful chemicals, and focusing on biodiversity and the health of the ecosystem.
Wildlife-Friendly Gardens:
Creating spaces that are welcoming to wildlife, like birds, bees, and butterflies, is also a common aspect. This not only supports local ecosystems but also adds to the enchanted, lively feel of the garden.
Through these practices, gardening in the whimsigoth lifestyle becomes a way to connect with the mystical and romantic aspects of nature, to create spaces that are both beautiful and a little otherworldly, and to foster a deeper relationship with the earth and its cycles.
Controversies within the Aesthetic:
It is important to always respect any cultures which may become entwined with styles, aesthetics, and lifestyles. Certain aspects of the mysticism tied into the whimsigoth trend are religious or cultural in nature, and it is best to be observant of this and appreciate, not appropriate these symbols.
However, Whimsigoth is in many ways appreciated for being a more inclusive aesthetic. While it does bear many similarities to coquette or cottage core, these styles are far less accessible. They often feature thin models in expensive or well tailored clothes, and are geared at predominantly white creators. As well, the call back to and romanticization of a time which saw the marginalization of many diverse communities is questioned by some. Without reflection, and the ability for the communities to reclaim these aesthetics and lifestyles, the system can be perpetuated.
Whimsigoth embraces female mysticism, and is meant to be reflective of a broader range of people. The style is reminiscent of a time period where women, or any individual, could be outcast or punished for being different- and embracing that unique energy. Whimsigoth staples include thrifted pieces which have life to them. This makes it both a more attainable concept, but also a more sustainable look.
