Goth subculture has been known to have originated from United Kingdom in the early 80s. It was made popular by then Gothic rock bands at the time. This is probably one of the longest surviving subcultures out there and is still very well known all over the world. Goth fashion has definitely gained diversity over the years, there are lots of fashion substyles that got their inspiration from Goth, one of them is called Pastel goth and you're about to find out what it's about with the help of this post. 

As you know, goth fashion is all about dark colors and motifs, dark makeup and dark clothes. There is never enough black for anyone who wears gothic fashion, starting from their hair that is usually black, to their heavy makeup which consists of black eyeshadows and black lipstick, up to their all black colored ensemble. Sometimes the clothes they would wear are morbid and extreme, but this is not the case with pastel goth. The name pastel goth would have already given something about it already. Pastel colors has always been associated with cute stuff and outfits so you could expect this style to have a slight downgrade from what the original Gothic fashion is. Black is still the main color for pastel goth but with a mixture of cute pastel colors like pink, pastel purple and sky blue. That's just bits and pieces about it but I bet that you're still asking this question, what exactly is pastel goth? Let us tell you in a more detailed description below.

What exactly is it?

If you see someone donning pastel goth fashion, you'd probably be reminded of other subcultures like emo and grunge, it is actually quite a mix of those. You would also get the impression that it originated from Japan due to it similarities with a lot of Japanese subcultures like Kawaii punk. It actually projects a dark but cute kind of theme, and if you read further, you will find out more about  the key elements on how to be a pastel goth in 10 easy steps.

1. Remember your pastel colors

You might have an idea what pastel colors are but you might want to know that there are lots of really cute pastel colors that you can include on you outfit, for example, mint green, light pink, baby blue, pale yellow and pastel purple. These colors surprisingly go so well with black so it wouldn't be a problem if you choose any of these to add to your black pieces. 

2. Choosing the right set of clothes

Usual Gothic themes would include black shirts with dripping or bleeding fonts, skulls, cobwebs, etc. You can still use the same motif but you can add pastel colored pieces like jackets or skirts. You can do a dark shirt with a pastel colored bottom or the other way around. There are different kind of tops that you can wear when it comes to pastel goth, it can be a t-shirt, a sweatshirt or even a blouse. You can wear crop tops or even something loose fitting, it doesn't really matter, as long as you think it that it falls under the category of pastel goth, then you're good to go. You can be girly as you want to be, but still dark at the same time.

3. Bottoms

Since pastel goth doesn't really follow anything specific when it comes to wearing clothes like other subcultures, you can pretty much try on anything you can think of, skirts, shorts, pants, leggings, you name it. The most common types of bottoms for pastel goths would be flared skirts or skater skirts, paired with thigh high stockings that is suspended by a garter belt. Another cute example for a pastel goth look would be a lavender goth shirt, black short skirt and fishnet stockings. 

4. Hair color

First thing you'd probably notice about pastel goth is their hair, which are dyed with pastel colors like pink, pastel purple, mint green and baby blue. Some would also try to dye their hair ombre style, like a mermaid or a gorgeous pastel unicorn. You'll see that most pastel goths have pastel colored locks that you'll think that this is a huge requirement, it actually isn't, but if you really want to portray this look the right way, you have to consider dyeing your hair or investing on some pastel wigs. 

5. Hairstyle

As for the styles, letting your hair down would work but you can add in some beach waves or curls. Cute girly hairstyles like twin buns, pigtails and braids would also look great for this style, you can also accessorize your locks with some pins, flower headbands, small bows and even hats like baseball caps or beanies. 

6. Makeup 

Makeup for Pastel goth doesn't necessarily need to be too much like goth. Sure it has the dark elements like heavy dark eyeshadows and think eyeliner but pastel eyeshadows are also added to the mix. Aside from that, some of pastel goths would add cute decorations on their makeup like hearts or clouds under their eyes for more effect. You can still wear black lipstick if you prefer, but other colors are also a great option for you. 

7. Accessories

Choosing accessories for pastel goth is an easy task, you just have to go along with typical gothic accessories like studded or spiked cuffs, same with chokers. But these gothic accessories now also come with different colors and a much girlier design and color, who would have thought that pastel pink colored spiked choker didn't exist? They sure do. It is the perfect time to use such accessories to go with your pastel goth look, just make sure you don't overdo cute accessories too much or you'll just look like too kawaii. Of course, if you want to stick with classic gothic accessories, you should do it, it will add dark elements with all your cute colored pieces. 

8. Footwear

Now, you don't need to wear those signature high heeled gothic boots for this look at all times, you can wear something like a pastel colored ankle boots, sneakers, some platform shoes, creepers and even some Mary janes if you want to add a little bit more cuteness to your look. If you're wearing a short skirt or shorts you can pair up your shoes with some knee high socks or stockings. 

9. Piercings

Now this is completely optional and you are in now way obligated to do this, but in case you already have existing ones, it will be perfect for pastel goth. You can wear goth themed earrings but you can do it with whatever you prefer as long as it goes with your coordinates. 

10. Look for reference

Don't be afraid to look for a reference online so you'll have more idea on what you can wear, what pieces you need to add to your closet and what you need to avoid. Putting together a look for pastel goth is quite simple if you know everything element you need to remember but it doesn't hurt to look for something that you can use as a guide for your new set of clothes, shoes and accessories. You can also look online for hair dye reference if you're having a hard time deciding about it. 

Conclusion

The more you look at pastel goth, the more you understand the obvious mix of sweetness and darkness and I know you agree that it is a good look. Contrasting things always bring the best result most of the time. This unique take on goth fashion is popular, specially with young girls. And you'll be able to wear this look, too. Just remember everything on this ten step guide and you're good to go!