More than half of my wardrobe is black, but I’m not goth. In fact, I’m the opposite of goth, with blonde hair and a penchant for sunshine and tans. There’s a trick to wearing so much black and not looking gothic, and here are some basic pieces you can add to your wardrobe to wear black without looking goth…
Price: $64.99 at modcloth.com
This gorgeous modern update of the classic sailor dress (by UK designer Critical Damage) is sure to get your sailor’s attention! Pair with sweet black or red patent Mary Janes, some knee socks or tights, and a cute shoulder bag and you’re ready for a boardwalk date… and you sure won’t look goth!
Price: $49.99 at modcloth.com
Looking for a go-to dress when you need something stylish and elegant in a flash? Don this stunner, add a sleek clutch and peep-toe pumps in red or green or yellow patent, a swipe of red lipstick, and you’re ready! I love the flattering A-line cut and the retro-inspired polka-dot pattern…
Price: $39.99 at modcloth.com
A pretty blouse can make or break an outfit, goth or otherwise, and this top would certainly make any pair of skinny jeans and a lacy cami. Wear your hair in loose, poetry-inspiring waves, do your eyes their smokiest, and prepare for an evening of compliments and polite stares.
Price: $62.99 at modcloth.com
Is it a shapely cardi, or a statement blazer? Or is it both? Dress is up for work with a sheer blouse and a pencil skirt, or dress it down for a night in 9reading that novel you’ve just bought) with skinny jeans and a pair of fetching flats.
Price: $54.99 at modcloth.com
Clearly inspired by saucy, stylish cabaret girls, this vest is an entire outfit in one piece. Add a short skirt and shiny metallic pumps for a night out, or pair with pinstripe pants and killer heels for work. You will most certainly be taken for a fashionista, not a goth, not by any chance.
Price: $39.99 at modcloth.com
What to wear under that chic blazer, or over that sleek cami? This blouse, of course! It’s made of sheer lace, in the deepest of navy blue (almost black), with a tie at the stand-up collar and long sleeves. Wear over or under any top you already own and love, and add skinny jeans or even slouchy shorts… perfect!
Price: $44.99 at modcloth.com
What self-respecting goth would ever wear anything as cute and sweet as a romper, even in the inkiest of blacks? This romper in particular, with its tie at the neck, hidden side zip, and drop-waist styling. Wear with strappy sandals or even sequined flats in any color you like…
See? It’s completely possible to wear black without looking goth. I adore the Copycat blouse, and can’t wait to order one! And what do you think of the Hepcat dress? Which of these black clothes do you like best, and how would you wear it without looking too goth, or too much like a widow-in-mourning? Please let me know!