Mall Goth Revival: Aaron Philip On Diversity & Aesthetic Guide

Is the resurgence of "Mall Goth" more than just a fleeting trend, but a reflection of evolving inclusivity and a redefinition of identity? The recent embrace of Mall Goth aesthetics, fueled by social media and a yearning for alternative expression, suggests a deeper cultural shift.

The echoes of the late 1990s and early 2000s are resonating once more. The familiar imagerydark clothing, gothic motifs, and a touch of rebellionis back in vogue, but with a crucial difference. While the original Mall Goth subculture, also known as "spooky kids," was often associated with a specific demographic, the current iteration appears to be embracing a wider spectrum of individuals.

The appeal of the Mall Goth aesthetic lies in its accessibility. Unlike some more niche subcultures, it blends seamlessly with mainstream fashion, incorporating elements like band tees, dark denim, combat boots, and statement accessories such as chokers and fishnet gloves. This accessibility, combined with the ease of sharing and discovery on platforms like TikTok, has allowed Mall Goth to transcend its original boundaries and appeal to a broader audience.

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The roots of Mall Goth lie in the intersection of goth aesthetics and mainstream fashion. The subculture, which emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s, drew inspiration from goth music, film, and literature, but adapted it for a more accessible style. The aesthetics became prevalent in places like Hot Topic, the store chain became a central point for purchasing clothing and accessories.

It is important to remember that the mall environment was a social hub for young people, especially in the United States. Shopping malls provided a space for teenagers to socialize, express themselves, and discover new subcultures.

This blend of influences, including nu metal, industrial metal, and emo, along with the availability of affordable, on-trend clothing, created a unique cultural identity. It was, however, also criticized for being superficial, overly commercialized, and too focused on fashion over the deeper cultural roots of goth.

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As Aaron Philip, a black trans femme, observed, that edgy feeling resonated with many, but that many people thought they weren't allowed to be goth. She points out that the resurgence has included many people of colour, along with more diverse representation in general, compared to the earlier iterations of Mall Goth.

The resurgence is fuelled by a number of factors, including the rise of social media, the cyclical nature of fashion trends, and a desire for self-expression. The aesthetic is easily replicated, as vintage finds and thrift stores make up a significant portion of its origins. It also allows people to try new styles and express a certain part of themselves. This has allowed Mall Goth to become a new trend that is increasingly prominent.

The tabletop roleplaying game and dating sim, "Mall Goths," created by Lucian Kahn, encapsulates the spirit of the subculture. Set in a Los Angeles shopping mall in 1996, the game brings together two distinct factions of goths: the Visigoths, and the mall goths. The game has created a very interesting world.

The game highlights the sense of community and the unique experiences of young people involved in this subculture. This blending of historical references and contemporary trends reflects the multifaceted nature of Mall Goth itself.

Marilyn Manson's music and presentation style significantly contributed to popularizing the subculture in the late 90s, the game seems to be the perfect embodiment of this era.

The nostalgic draw of the 1990s and early 2000s, combined with a growing acceptance of diverse identities, has contributed to the subculture's widespread appeal.

Where mall goths started disappearing around 2006 (around the time that Hot Topic starting moving away from selling goth/punk clothing and more toward emo and hipster styles). But recently, the style has begun to resurface, especially as more people explore style and identity.

The rise of platforms like TikTok has played a major role in the revival. Nu metal has seen renewed popularity on the app, and with it the resurgence of Mall Goth. This exposure allows users to discover and engage with various aesthetics, fashion trends, and subcultures.

The ability to blend vintage finds with the latest trends is a core element of the Mall Goth aesthetic. This approach enables individuals to curate a style that is both personal and current, reflecting a commitment to self-expression.

The Mall Goth aesthetic, while primarily fashion-focused, offers a platform for exploring identity, self-expression, and community. Whether it's a nostalgic elder goth or a Gen Z newcomer, the current resurgence of the Mall Goth style is more than just a fashion trend.

This aesthetic provides an opportunity to revisit and redefine a cultural phenomenon for a new era. The ongoing evolution of the Mall Goth subculture demonstrates how style, music, and community intersect to create an evolving cultural landscape.

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