Photo via @best.dressed
The past year wasn’t just a calendar shuffle; it was a testament to the seismic cultural impact that aesthetics can wield. From the commanding reign of Barbiecore to the unapologetic ascent of girlcore, these style movements are not ready to exit the stage. In the spotlight for 2024 is the whimsigoth aesthetic, a force to be reckoned with that’s not just breaking the internet but rewriting the style rulebook. It’s not a fleeting trend – it’s a revolution, taking over TikTok with an intensity that shows no signs of tapping out. This aesthetic is an invitation to tap into the recesses of your inner child-like curiosity, a sartorial escape into a world of mystical allure and fairytale fascination. Picture modern witchy vibes in the form of flowing maxi skirts and velvet tops – all draped in a palette of enchanting purples, greens, and dark reds. What sets the whimsigoth aesthetic apart is not just its wardrobe but it’s a celebration of individuality, a distinctive rebellion against the mundane. So, if you’re ready to dive headfirst into the magical realm of whimsigoth, we’ve curated 10 outfits that are bound to cast a spell on you. Get ready to unleash your mystical side, and defy the fashion norms because, in 2024, the whimsigoth aesthetic is not just a trend; it’s a bewitching lifestyle.
Photo via @anaasaber
1) Skirt Over Pants
A prevalent theme in whimsigoth outfits is the art of chaotic layering, where much of the charm lies in staggering silhouettes. Wearing skirts and dresses over a pair of pants seamlessly aligns with this aesthetic. Take, for example, this influencer who incorporates a pleated mini skirt over her laid-back jeans to create a look that balances high-fashion with a cozy vibe.
Photo via @sophie.seddon
2) Feeling Witchy
From Stevie Nicks to the 90’s show, Sabrina The Teenage Witch, there is an endless supply of pop culture references to fuel the whimsigoth aesthetic. Adopting the modern-day witch look is a matter of channeling the aforementioned icons and donning a flowy maxi skirt accompanied by your favorite mystical top and a pair of sturdy leather boots. Sophie ups the ante even further with a whimsical belt to truly seal the deal.
Photo via @quirinebrouwer
3) 90’s Revival
Although the Y2K craze is dying down ever so slightly, nostalgic fans can rejoice with the rise of whimsigoth. The style takes notable inspiration from the 90’s and one of the most coveted pieces is the slip dress. Slinky slip dresses, especially those in an earthy color palette, are the building blocks for a myriad of whimsigoth-approved outfits.
Photo via @cheyennebdrew
4) Mad for Plaid
One of the most beloved prints within the goth realm is plaid. This classic pattern is an easy way to inject an eye-catching element into an outfit. Whether it be a plaid skirt or a plaid tailored vest, you simply cannot go wrong with incorporating this print into your ensemble. For ease of styling, you can copy and paste this influencer’s look. She manages to match the red from her printed top to her accompanied mini skirt for more coordination.
Photo via @alyssainthecity
5) Chunky Accessories
To master the whimsigoth aesthetic, be sure to always include a handful of accessories. Here the notion of minimal styling goes out the window. This look celebrates bold, gaudy accessories, adhering to the idea that more is merrier. From chunky grommet belts to buckled handbags, feel free to accessorize to your heart’s content.
Photo via @sofiamcoelho
6) Oversized
Another way to create surface interest within your outfit is by adorning oversized silhouettes. Baggy, loose pieces are well-suited for the whimsigoth movement, as they exude an air of mystery. In fact, an oversized leather jacket is the ideal layering device of many gothic style enthusiasts. Not only is it incredibly edgy, but it blends well with the abstract outfits that whimsigoth so heavily relies on.
Photo via @kleinhila
7) Pop of Color
While traditional gothic style is focused on primarily wearing all black, the whimsigoth takes a slightly more colorful route. To add an element of surprise to your outfit, try adding in a pop of color. A brightly hued turtleneck or mesh long sleeve is the ideal layering piece for any dark dress or vampy skirt.
Photo via @romneyellen
8) Fun Tights
You can also add interest to your outfit with a pair of eclectic tights. Solid, colored tights act as a great way to incorporate some color into your outfit. Exhibit A is this influencer’s red tights styled with a plaid mini skirt and baby tee. Similarly, patterned tights add an unexpected layer of fun to any whimsigoth outfit.
Photo via @luizacordery
9) Faux Fur
Faux fur remains a dominant presence in the street style fashion scene, and its versatile texture is ideal for elevating various looks, including the whimsigoth aesthetic. A fanciful faux fur coat not only brings a touch of luxury to your outfit but also enhances the allure of whimsical prints and mystical styling.
Photo via @best.dressed
10) Light and Dark
As mentioned above, the whimsigoth aesthetic takes some of the darkest elements of the gothic style and pairs it with something more light hearted. Thus, it only makes sense to communicate this juxtaposition into your outfit. Ashley styles a vampy corset top with a flowing silk maxi skirt to create a look that marries the best of both worlds.
