Steampunk fashion is a blend of Victorian and industrial design elements. The resulting style is distinctive and amusing.
To create your own steampunk costume, start by envisioning a character you want to be. For example, a mad inventor or an aviator might be a good fit for steampunk attire.
Exaggerated Skirts
Exaggerated skirts define the Steampunk aesthetic. Hunt out tiered and gathered skirts – that show a little leg or trousers with a lot of attitude, leather is strongly encouraged but it can get a bit hot under those layers so often skirts are gathered higher at the front to let some air in.
Corsets are a great way to achieve this look. They’re ideal for those who want a strong Victorian style with some glamour too.
Put on something sturdy – long leather boots are ideal but a worn-in pair of DMs also looks good, especially when paired with stylish tights. ‘Hardy’ and ‘a fine turn of ankle’ are your watchwords, even if you’re posing in front of dark satanic mills in February!
A corset is an absolute must, but if you don’t feel comfortable in one, find a blouse with big sleeves and anything wreathed in lace. Clearly stepping out in just a corset would have given Queen Victoria herself an attack of the vapours, but that’s the fun of Steampunk; it takes the appealing features of Victorian clothing and grounds them in the 1870s.
Exaggerated Waistlines
Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction and fantasy that incorporates technology and aesthetic design inspired by 19th century industrial steam powered machinery. It is often a hybrid genre that also incorporates elements from Gothic and the Wild West.
A well-designed steampunk corset dress will impress the crowds by its sheer beauty and functionality. Whether you’re looking for something to wear to an office party or a wedding, there’s a piece out there to suit your needs.
Hunt out tiered and gathered skirts that show a little leg or trousers with a lot of attitude. Leather is strongly advised, although long layered dresses are in fashion too.
Rediscover your waist with a cinch and add a bustle – these are the exaggerated silhouettes that define the steampunk aesthetic. The cinch may make it slightly more challenging to eat cake and cucumber sandwiches, but there’s still room for seconds under that enormous skirt!
Industrial Paraphernalia
Steampunk is a subculture that celebrates the 19th century as its backdrop (often with a Victorian or Wild West slant). This era is imagined to have heavy, metallic steam-powered machinery.
One of the most popular sub-genres of science fiction, steampunk is often referred to as “the new Victorian”. It’s not hard to see why: the wildly imaginative outcomes and nostalgic aesthetic transport you to another time and place with awe-inspiring flair.
A Steampunk costume is only truly steampunk when it’s adorned with all the right paraphernalia, from goggles to lace. It’s also a good idea to invest in a few novelty items, like this brass barrel pistol.
Lace
Lace is a delicate, weblike fabric that textile producers can manufacture using a variety of techniques. Traditionally made with silk or linen threads, contemporary manufacturers make this textile using cotton, rayon, and synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon.
While lace is not often used to create entire garments, this delicate and feminine fabric can make an impact on a piece of clothing or a homeware item. It may be manufactured by hand or machine, and it can come in various thicknesses and designs.
Embroidered lace is one of the most common types of lace, and it can be created using many different techniques. Some lace fabrics have open holes that require a backing fabric.
If you’re looking for the perfect lace fabric for your Steampunk dress, it is important to know how to care for it. It should be carefully hand-washed with cold water and a mild detergent, as lace fabrics are very fragile. It should also be placed in a mesh delicates bag when washing it.
