By Emily Fromant, Co-Editor in Chief

The Croft Magazine// Co-Editor in Chief Emily explores fashions dark side and the permetations of the colour black through the catwalk creations of McQueen, Takashi and Rick Owens…

Gothic subculture exploded onto runways in the late 1970s. The dark, edgier looks represented a wave of self-expression. Its tenebrous, seductive nature was unavoidable for designers and the exploration of morbid silhouettes, elements of fantasy, and minimalist designs meant Haute Goth has been a presence on our runways year after year. Often holding the stereotype of being something scary, at times even kitschy, our minds usually wander to Halloween costumes, rather than high fashion runways when thinking of Haute Goth. But Haute goth is no stranger to the catwalk. The characteristics of ‘Haute goth’ can be summarised into three elements. It’s unwavering celebration of identity, change and the pursuit of something new. Haute Goth is a space between art and fashion. Often designers experiment with abstract silhouettes and extreme runway shows with new combinations being realised through the mismatch of opposite patterns or designs. It harks back to the old, heavily influenced by Victorian and Edwardian attire whilst also adopting futuristic elements, celebrating both its tradition and the future of the genre. Haute Goth has had many phases in fashion, it is beautiful and bold – but which designers are leading the way?

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
Alexander…