A Collision of Fashion

Throughout history men and women have chosen clothing based on practicality or social norm. Well in recent years a group of fashionistas have taken a bit of old and mixed in some funk. They call it Steampunk. This collision of fashion is not only fun but with the right pieces strewn together, it looks quite exciting.

What is the Majority Demographic?

Well that depends on the person. Each wearer of any outfit must decide if it is right for him or her. But, with this style, there is nothing saying 'you are too old to dress like this' or 'you can't wear that until you are older'. The choice lies with the wearer. Now, to be certain, some ladies of a certain age may not feel comfortable in the outfit in the picture at the top of the page. But, those same ladies would maybe not feel any remorse if the fashion of the day were similar to that of Effie Trinket from the Capital City of the Hunger Games Trilogy.

How popular is this movement?

Given the recent sway in dystopian societies being portrayed in many major movies and science fiction works, this movement is just starting to take shape. Our world is changing and with this collision of fashion from yesterday and tomorrow, there is a showing that there are no limitations to the imagination of fashion.

How to Dress Steampunk

Take the following fashion eras or collections: Victorian or Edwardian Era, Burlesque, and Punk. Mix in some leather and metallic accessories such as pocket watches, goggles, or gears and you have what has been called, Steampunk. It is a mix of antique and modern in the same outfit. In this hodgepodge of fashion, it is perfectly fine to mix your burgundy Victorian Era gown, complete with corset and bustle, with an army green military jacket and a large pocket watch. Or, match a super short pleated number from the burlesque line with leather buckled half gloves and a headpiece from long ago, complete with feathers and mechanical trinkets. Don't be afraid to really let your imagination run wild with this style. The point is to stand out and to have fun.

Where to Wear these Fabulous Outfits?

There are conventions all over the United States where Steampunk is fashionable. SalonCon started in 2006 as a place for all people from all backgrounds to come together and be a part of something that would have been reserved only for the super rich back in the 1800s. Since then festivals have turned up all over the United States. There is even a Steampunk cruise from New Jersey to Port Canaveral, Florida, Coco Cay, and Nassau Bahamas at the end of February through the beginning of March. But, it is not just an American trend. Steampunk festivals and fashion can be found in the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe and Asia as well. This really is something to look into.