Fashion: The goth look rocks

There are several shades of goth this summer, six to be exact.

Fashion is stepping over to the dark side and trading classic summer clothing for grittier get-ups. Meaning there is an option for every lady.

The early 90s revival is certainly gaining momentum as religious prints and chunky gold motifs are being seen across the high street. It is a hark back to Gianna Versace’s golden era of gaudy chic. But there is a much more sinister side to the trend than when we saw it on the supermodels 20 years ago.

Up-and-coming Scottish designer David Black showcased cherub effigies screen printed on to structured dresses. This was topped off with halo-like headgear made out of nine-inch nails for his graduate collection at Heriot-Watt.

Gold accessories are the key with summer goth, and not necessarily what you associate with the word goth. But this is a fashion twist on the dark look that calls for lightening up the appearance through accessories.

New Scottish fashion house Haus of AnarK hastaken the use of leather and studs to a stylish level. Its black dresses have some dark personality stitched into them with panels of mesh exposing midrift ever so slightly without going over the top. There is a little grunge element to this look and you can play it up or down depending on your mood.

Leather studded panels stitched down the front of oversized chiffon shift dresses give the option of dual wearability. Teamed over the top of a crisp white shirt to expose the collar and some patterned leggings makes you daytime ready. Or dare to bare legs in high heels for a night-time look.

Edinburgh’s own Judy R Clark is injecting a little youth into classic materials such as tweed and vintage lace. The designer’s work can be interpreted into a little gothic Victoriana, layering her lace over velvet and tweed coats adds drama and depth.

For all-out glamour you can’t look past Dalry lass Carolyn Baxter. Her pretty, formal frocks aren’t usually the kind of clothing you’d class as goth. But her latest designs have taken a walk down the dark side. Oversized studs and plunging necklines toughen up her full-length gowns. Add a large crucifix to finish off the theme in a much girlier way.