The Gothic Culture

The term "Gothic" dates farther back than one may think, as it not only refers to a specific style, art and literature, but also characterizes a people with a diverse background and relatively influential role in ancient history. Originating in Scandinavia during the time in which the Roman Empire was a force to be reckoned with, the Gothic people continuously disrupted the order of the empire with their Barbaric attacks on multiple Balkan cities, and other raids near the Black and Aegean Sea. Although they did not accomplish in any major conquests nor play a large role in the fall of the Roman Empire, they were a notable force during this time period and their influence in art, writing, music and other things became a major contributing factor in defining the Middle Ages and Renaissance that soon followed.

During the Middle Ages, Gothic influence could be seen in art, literature, fashion and many other aspects of life throughout this period, with defining roles that shaped each into unique subcategories, as Gothic refers to a specific style to this day. The Gothic art of the Middle Ages and Renaissance could mainly be seen in the robust architectural monuments that were used as Cathedrals, Abbeys and other widely used public and private buildings, creating distinct features such as the pointed arch to individualize the construction. While the defining role of the Gothic style during the Middle Ages and Late Renaissance took the form of architectural masterpieces, Gothic writing and other forms of art emerged as history progressed. Literature that fell under this category often took the form of dark, horror based fictional narratives based around a twisted theme, and surprisingly surfaced during the Romantic period of Britain. The theme "Gothic" though, was not taken with full seriousness until authors such as Edgar Allen Poe took the idea and turned it into the well known genre recognized in much of today's literary masterpieces, as his work was focused on the roots of the Goths, with much of his writing being barbaric in nature.

 

The common elements in Gothic literature and art, similar to the architecture, conjure a sense of mystery and eerie sensation in the viewer, which is often why castles and mansions are the authors and artists setting of choice. Those known for creating work under the Gothic genre often resided in buildings of this nature, for they attempted to portray the feeling that the architecture conveyed in their art or writing, the shadows that darkened rooms or the sounds heard throughout during storm filled nights, almost as though the building was alive. Other elements that define the Gothic culture include the rose and cross, which are connected to each other in meaning closer than one may believe, and their relationship dates back to Medieval and Renaissance periods in which Cathedrals and Churches under Gothic architectural guidance were being constructed. With this knowledge, it is easy to determine why the cross is so common in the Goth genre, and it is widely used in fear inducing work relating to the Devil or protection from evil presences. The rose, though, has more of a unique background and a greater list of possible inclusions in Gothic art and literature, as it was originally a defining aspect of a Cathedral's architecture. A large, round stained glass window often stood as a centerpiece for the eye to gaze upon while in service, with a center point being surrounded by patterns resembling rose petals, and the colors were of a floral nature as well. There is, then, an extremely close connection between the cross and rose, as they both were symbols used in religious buildings during the Medieval and Renaissance periods, and is also another architectural influence from the Gothic era. Another plausible reason as to why the rose is part of these dark themed, horror based works of art dates back to the Romantic time period of England, which is when the Gothic form in art surfaced. The rose is used to signify love and romance, and often times authors would include relationships had by the main character of the novel or piece, giving them somewhat of a more human aspect if the character is meant to be tormented by their own doing or of an outside influence, which allows for greater empathy towards them by the audience. These elements that define Gothic art and literature revolve around dark themes, or what society has associated evil with, and additional elements include blood, bats, crows and others of this nature, all of which though are meant to create a sense of shadowed mystery and ill intentions.



Much of what is apparent in the art and literature can also be seen in the clothing and styles that have become increasingly popular in recent years, with inclusion of the main element, dark colors, to create a very individualistic style and something for people to aid in the representation of who they feel they relate as in society. A lot of what Goth style is relates to intricate designs on clothing, jewelry and possibly make-up backed by a dark pallet of colors, usually black or red, and this is what creates the mysterious and shadowed feel that is represented in the literature and art. It is a way to showcase how the person would like to be portrayed to the world, whether it be simply a preferred sense of style in clothes or make-up, or to help represent the lifestyle they feel deeply connected to, as no other style truly can be used to represent the Gothic category. The style can come as a shock to many, as it is a bold statement and is not commonly practiced by the masses, but it is simply a preferred way of appearance or way of living and often we misjudge it upon sight. Edward Scissorhands is often used to aid in the representation of the Gothic culture, and can be also looked upon as how society should embrace the authentic style that is Goth, as his appearance is not far from the normal look of someone who feels connected with the culture.

 



This also helps to highlight that Gothic stories or those who partake in the practices are not shrouded in darkness, as the film is of a romantic nature, thus it is seen that the dark themes are only a single part of the culture and can be understood more in depth that Gothic style and people come from a complex historical background. Some may continue to view this culture as barbaric, offensive at times or simply not appealing, but that is with a surface level understanding of who they are and where their style, art and roots came from. With their involvement throughout history in major conflicts with the Roman Empire, monumental success in the architecture of the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, and defining art, literature and style that can be seen to this day and is appreciated as such, it is hard to deny that Gothic culture is one of great richness and should be understood before turning a blind eye, simply because you're not a fan of how they look.


Which 10 Items Can Create 100+ Fashion Outfits

Which 10 Items can create 100+ fashion outfits? There is a common awkward situation for all women in the world that we don't have clothes to wear. However, we already have many clothes in the wardrobe. Actually, you don't need so many new clothes to catch the fashion trends. What you need to do is create various clothing styles through limited pieces.

Now, I will introduce 10 items that can create 100+ fashion outfits.

1.   White Shirt

If you ask me to choose the favorite in the 10 items, I will choose white shirt. Because it's so great to match any other clothes! In the spring and summer, you can only wear the white shirt to match the Shorts, jeans, skirts, hip wrap skirts, long skirts and more. 


 


In the autumn and winter, you can wear a white shirt with Knit vest, knit coat, trench coat, cowboy coat... No matter what you wear with a white shirt, you can create a different style.

While choosing white shirt, you should not choose a white shirt with too much exaggerated design, comfort and special is benevolent.

2.   Dress

A Sexy Maxi Dress can be seen as the items that never out of date, especially the classic black dress. A one-piece dress can help you strengthen the sense of elegance and tenderness. A well-designed dress can be used to match sweater, shirt, blazer, coat and more. With some matching jewelries, the outfits will be more fashionable.

2.   Wide Legged Pants

Wide Legged Pants are definitely bank on trend in recent years. It can lengthen your legs and cover up your muffin top. The items can make you have a strong fashion sense. When you wear it with a short cropped top,  you will look like very high and chic. Matching it with a white shirt and trench coat, this outfit is perfect for working. However, if you  choose the wide legged pant without a right length and a good stretch, it will look terrible.


 


3.   Skirt

The skirt is always regarded as a versatile fashion item. Whether the skirt is in blue-jeans, leather or velvet, you can use skirt to match various outfits. The jeans skirt is easy to match. You can wear it with a white shirt, T-shirt or camisole to go shopping. But when you attach some exquisite ornaments to those outfits, you will become a professional woman. Blazer or coat is also a good choice in autumn and winter.


 


4.   Straight Leg

Straight leg has been a necessary piece just as white shirt. If your calves are a little thick, straight leg can help you solve this problem. In contrast with leggings, straight leg is more fashionable. When you wear Straight Leg, you can cuff the hem to show the ankle and make your legs look thinner. 

5.   Blazer

If you are looking for a new look in spring and autumn, blazer is a good option. Try not to choose the black suit which you wear at a job interview.  Plaid or nude blazer is trendy. While wearing a blazer, you should pay attention to your shoes and bags, different style shoes and bags may determine your style. Black blazer+white shirt+blue jeans+sneaker+bag=a comfortable and good outfit.

 


 

6.   Denim jacket

One of the most important item of sports styles, street style or Hip hop style is Denim jacket. Your mother may buy it for you in middle you. But how to use Denim jacket to create a different fashion style is a question. There are 10 items to match Denim jacket.

l  With shirts, for example, white shirt

l  With a white T-shirt, or T-shirt with special printing

l  With a short skirt 

l  With a dress

l  With a hoodie

l  With a jumpsuit

l  With straight leg

l  With wide legged pants

l  With a sneaker, i.e. Thunder Rive Doite

l  With high-heels


 


7.   Pointy High Heel Shoes

A lot of girls have already has high heel shoes. But a pair of pointy high heels shoes which the color is similar with your skin color can lengthen your legs and make you look thinner. You can wear it with any trousers or dresses.

8.   Thunder Rive Doite

Thunder Rive Doite is very popular in recent seasons. Despite the reason that there are many internet celebrities wearing Thunder Rive DoIte to make it a trendy. There are other reasons for it became popular--its retro design and special desigh make it more personal than usual sneakers.

9.   Accessories Or Bags

To a certain extent, accessories can be regarded as the "soul" of an outfit. Sometimes, you just wear a simple and casual clothes. But with accessories, the outfit will be totally different. I advise you to buy accessories which are simple but elegant. That means you can wear it in a all kinds of situation. For example, the necklace with coin is a good choice. In addition, women's handbags are not only for things, but also important decorations for women. It can fit your shirt and blazer to make your outfit more fashionable.

 

 

Conclusion

Owing to lack of ability to match their clothes in closet, large amounts of women have complained that they don't have enough clothes. In fact, whether you have the items mentioned above is doesn't matter. The most crucial thing for you now is trying to use your old clothes to create new outlooks.

 






Mini Makeover - 5 Small Beauty Treatments That Make A Big Difference To How You Look And Feel

Photo: content pixie/unsplash


 If you’ve been getting by without a beautician during the lockdown period, you will have come to realize that beauty treatments don’t always have to be luxurious. You don’t need to venture out to spas and salons to feel pampered.

 

Apart from scheduling a teeth whitening appointment, here are a few beauty treatments you can do at home to increase your confidence and get your groove back. 


  1. Oil It Up:

You don’t realize the value of your hair until you start losing it. A beautiful head of hair can give you extra confidence, and a great home care option is to oil your hair regularly. Oil is an ideal leave-in treatment that works to cleanse and moisturize your scalp. 


Apply oil to the entire head right down to the ends and allow the oil to work its magic for an hour or even for the entire day. Oiling your hair does leave your hair greasy for a day or two, so make sure to apply it when you have nowhere to go.


  1. Mask It Up: 

In the comfort of your own home, you can set aside your COVID-19 face mask in favor of a lush beauty mask. Consider adding sheet masks, clay masks, and sleeping masks to your weekly beauty rituals. The best part about using a face mask regularly is that it leaves your skin soft and glowy. 


Remember when you initially use a new product, your skin may react in the form of fine pimples and zits. This is natural and a sign that your skin is detoxifying and cleaning out.


  1. Jade Roll-Up: 

Some call it a jade roller, while others refer to it as their “magic paintbrush.” The idea of the jade roller is to easily roll on the skin, taking care of fine lines and wrinkles. 


There is some preliminary evidence that the jade roller increases collagen production, leaving you with plump and healthier-looking skin. The rollers can be pricey, but they are a good investment as they work wonders in reducing skin inflammation. Keep in mind that the jade roller works more efficiently (and feels more delightful) if you place it in the freezer before use.


  1. Spa It Up: 

Sometimes a little bit of pampering and relaxation at home can do a world of good for your mind, and by extension, your body. The more relaxed you are mentally, the better your outward appearance. Treat yourself to a self-spa date, and boost the relaxing and revitalizing vibes by sipping on a cup of green tea. 


Green tea has many skincare benefits and contains the necessary amino acids, enzymes, and caffeine to improve skin elasticity. The tea bags can also be applied to your eyes to reduce inflammation and make them appear less puffy. 


Over time, regular green tea consumption reduces the signs of aging as well. 


  1. Feet Up: 

Two of the most noticed parts of the body are your feet. Having smooth feet and heels can make you feel as if you are floating on cloud nine. Use a good old-fashioned pumice stone, soak your tired feet in a foot spa, or even try out one of those newly-invented foot exfoliator packs. Better yet, do a self-pedicure while catching up on some television time. 



A healthy mindset, good hair, a brighter-looking face, and great feet are a great way to help you look and feel good during this lockdown – all without having to leave your house.


Coats and cardigans by Prestarrs


Hello my beloved fashionistas! How is your day going? I hope you are enjoying this late summer with beautiful warm temperatures wherever you are in the world. The summer is coming to an end which means new collections are already in stores and ready for us! That also means that in online stores such as Prestarrs you can already shop some trendy items for fall.

So here's what Prestarrs is all about: it's a fresh online store that offers trendy tops, dresses, skirts, accessories and more. It has a large variety of fashion items and many perks you can use while shopping such as 5% off your first order or 10% off on any order over 89$. They ship worldwide to make your shopping more convenient and you can get free shipping on all orders over 75$. Isn't that awesome?

My favorite fall items are fashion coats and I don't even know how many of them do I own. But I am still on a lookout for more fashionable and trendy coats, I just love them so much! I picked out a few from this store so you can check them out on the photos in my post and let me know which kind of coat do you like to wear the most. Is it the plain one color simple silhouette coat? Or you like leather and a lot of fur on your coat? Feel free to let me know!

When it' still warm in the late summer the ideal clothing item is women's cardigans. It just adds to every outfit and it keeps you warm! I love the ones with sequins and embellishment. There is a large variety of cardigans in this store, I am sure you will find something you like as well!

What is your favorite outerwear my lovelies? Let me know!

Lots of love,

Venoma


Casual dresses by Berrylook


Hello my lovelies and welcome to my new post! It's been a while since we discussed a certain type of style on my blog. Today that's exactly what we are going to do: just deal with one kind of style. Can you guess which type of style it is? Let me tell you: it's the most common one. The casual style! 

Yes, I am a great fan of casual everyday style with a bit of flare. That is why today I will tell you where you can get the best casual items for daily wear, The online store I will be telling you about is called Berrylook and it offers you everything that will keep you stylish and comfy at the same time. 


Berrylook is one of those online corners where you can get pretty much everything. From skirts and dresses, over tops and bottoms, accessories and men wear, all the way to knitwear and outerwear to get you ready for upcoming autumn. But autumn is not here yet, so we will check out some of their cheap dresses online together. 

A dress is the essence of casual style. There is nothing that can be more stylish and easier to wear than a cute casual summer dress. With current trends, you can pick out anything you like: short mini beach dress, long maxi dress for a walk or a midi dress for a casual day at work!


If you want to make your look even more cool, try adding casual sneakers on a dress. I just love dress and sneakers combo, it makes you look and feel young and flirty!

What do you think about current trends when it comes to summer dresses my lovelies? Feel free to let me know! What are your favorite dresses and sneakers from this store?

Lots of love,

Venoma