So, aren't you big enough to stick to the rules of style and demeanor, preferring to be goth? You still have a few years before you get rid of the idea of having a spider queen look altogether, and you can still mimic the Addams family's Wednesday style provided, of course, that you keep reading.
Steps
Step 1. Think about it
Are you looking to go goth? Do you think it reflects your personality? Goth style is something you need to feel naturally. Either you are goth or you are not. You cannot be what you are not. If you want to express your character, you should definitely keep reading the article.
Step 2. Go slowly, starting to research goth history, music and fashion
Research helps a lot, because that way you'll know what to say when someone asks you what goth is, without giving the impression that you're just a goth person. Therefore, first of all study.
Step 3. Go shopping
It is not necessary to buy very expensive clothes. Look into cheaper and second-hand stores, where you can find plenty of items that are affordable for your pocket. Remember not to be too picky as you could find a gorgeous jacket just by looking in a second hand shop.
Step 4. Don't neglect to study the goth style
Considering that you are tweaking everything to tidy up your taste in music and style, you still need to study and do whatever it takes to reach the top level. Many people believe the goth stereotype is a boy who drops out of school, uses drugs, is an alcoholic, or smokes. Prove them wrong.
Step 5. Listen to goth music
There are several genres, such as gothic rock, death rock, EBM, darkwave and new wave. Remember to listen to what you like. Don't stop following a singer or band just because they're not goth and don't listen to a band just because they're goth. If you don't like something, don't do it. You can't make yourself accept something you don't like.
Step 6. Adjust your hair however you like
There are several styles to choose from and there is no need to dye your hair black or a crazy color (locks with clips will do just as well). If you want, ask your parents for permission first.
Step 7. If you can't wear makeup, it's not the end of the world
Wait until the time comes or until your parents allow it.
Step 8. If you can wear makeup, keep it simple
A little bit of eyeshadow and eyeliner will do just fine. You don't have to stick to black, because you have plenty of other colors to choose from. Try it out and watch the tutorials. It is not necessary to wear makeup, however.
Step 9. Live your life
Keep doing the things you love. Being Goth doesn't mean being depressed. It is all about seeing the darker side of life, accepting and seeing the beauty in things that seem ugly, strange, abnormal, disturbing or disgusting in the eyes of "normal" people.
Advice
- Stay true to yourself. If you feel that gothic is not a style that belongs to you, then don't follow it. In your eyes it can appear as a trend or a phase that will pass over time.
- Personalize your clothing, making it unique.
- Have fun. Don't act like you're depressed because you think you're "more gothic" by doing so. It does not work like that.
- You may lose some friends, but you may also gain others.
- With music you can start practically right away, listening to songs on YouTube, Grooveshark and Spotify, not just CDs. Try classic and old school gothic bands like "The Sisters of Mercy" and "The Cure", and see what you think.. then move on to more.
- Some are goth genres, such as EBM and electronic dance music, but there are many types of goth music.
- The Bauhaus are known for being the first goth band and one of the most favored in this area.
Warnings
- Sometimes, some people will not accept you for who you are and will be very cruel (look for Sophie Lancaster). Ignore them in the best way you know. If they get violent, talk to a teacher, your parents, or an adult you trust right away.
- People might ask you some questions like: "Do you cut yourself?", "Are you thinking about suicide?" or "Are you depressed?". Gently explain that goth style doesn't mean being depressed. If they don't listen to you, don't worry and just ignore them.
- Remember that, usually, the most judged guys are those who belong to the goth, emo and alternative styles. It is very likely that you will be teased or rejected. Don't let this behavior affect you. There are people around who think you are an interesting type and who will like you. Make sure you hang out with a few but good and unprejudiced people so you don't get left alone and fall into depression.
- Most people don't know what goth style really is. Chances are you'll arouse some dislike, but ignore these kinds of attitudes.
- Maybe some friends won't accept your new style. They may argue with you or even be very mean. If so, they are not true friends. Some people, however, may seriously think that what you are doing is wrong, trying to help you see "a way out". Think of them as friends who have a different point of view - and diversity is good.
- If people consider you as a person who puts on airs or as a bad copy of some famous person, keep on your way and ignore them.
- You don't need to change your hair or your entire wardrobe to be gothic.
