Retro Meets Futuristic: The Steampunk Style

At its core, the lolita style draws heavy influence from the past, with frilly frocks and delicate dresses that harken back to an age long since past. With vintage fashion becoming increasingly popular, it makes sense that many of the most loved Lolita substyles are modeled after retro designs from long ago.

However, one of these nostalgic styles stands apart from the rest: steampunk.

Like other vintage looks, steampunk outfits are modeled after a real period in time. However, steampunk is unique in the sense that it takes this inspiration and molds it into something new, pairing its historical inspiration with a futuristic twist.

Here’s everything you need to know about this popular vintage-inspired style and how to pull off the perfect steampunk look.

What is Steampunk?

Steampunk first came into the public eye as a form of science fiction, popularized by 19th-century authors like H.G. Wells (The Time Machine) and Jules Verne (Around the World in Eighty Days). Steampunk reimagines the history of the Victorian era, describing a world that is still powered by steam machines. The ideology behind steampunk asks a simple question: What would society look like if we still used the same technology we did in the 1800s?

Steampunk eventually became more than just an idea within pages of a book, as fashionistas began adapting the fashion style in the 1980s. It was around this time that the term ‘steampunk’ was coined, named as a nod to the ‘cyberpunk’ style, which is effectively the direct opposite of steampunk.

Since then, the steampunk fashion style has taken off, especially with those who are fans of the Lolita look.

The Lolita Steampunk

Inspired by the Victorian era’s opulence, steampunk lends itself well to the Lolita style. It is a captivating fusion of Victorian elegance and futuristic innovation, allowing enthusiasts to channel their creativity and individuality through their attire.

Steampunk is a unique style in the sense that it is immediately identifiable. Though there are no rules dictating exactly what steampunk should look like, the style is defined by the melding of man and machine.

Steampunk outfits often feature Victorian-era clothing items, like bustles, corsets, and petticoats, typically in warm colors. However, the ‘technology’ aspect is paramount, and steampunk looks often include gold or brass accessories, such as:

● Pocket watches or timepieces

● Accessories and jewelry that feature gears or machinery

● Flying or driving goggles

● Parasols

● Top hats

● Leather boots

Though steampunk fashion is rooted in the Victorian period, some fashionistas also incorporate inspiration from the American “Wild West” era, post-apocalyptic imagery, and goth subculture.

An example of a steampunk look:

Want to try the steampunk style?

If you're intrigued by the allure of steampunk fashion, you should try incorporating both Victorian elements and machine-like elements into your attire. If you’d like to pair Victorian elegance with a steampunk twist, these are a few ideas to get you started.

● The Dress (Or Skirt Set)

Steampunk lolita dresses often feature flowing silhouettes that are reminiscent of Victorian gowns, offering a perfect canvas for your creative expression. The juxtaposition of lace, ruffles, and corsets or tight-laced bodices harks back to the elegance of the 19th century, while unique accents like cogwheel motifs and leather detailing infuse a sense of mechanical wonder—like a human automaton!

This set is a perfect example of the steampunk style, as it pairs the delicate, frilly Victorian style with the rough edges that steampunk is known for.

● Top Hats And Signature Steampunk Goggles

No steampunk ensemble is complete without the right accessories. A top hat, an iconic symbol of Victorian aristocracy, is a must-have. Adorn it with gears, chains, and intricate adornments to lend it an unmistakable steampunk flair. Adding signature goggles to your outfit not only enhances its aesthetic but also pays homage to the genre's fascination with invention and exploration, as they are inspired by the flying or driving goggles worn by workers at the time.

● Accessorize With Gears And Gadgets

One of the defining features of steampunk fashion is the incorporation of mechanical components like gears and gadgets. Earrings adorned with cogwheels, clock faces, and intricate metalwork bring an industrial edge to your look. These pieces of jewelry not only catch the eye but also reflect the genre's obsession with the interplay of technology and artistry.

● Leather Ankle Boots Add A Touch Of Toughness

For an authentic steampunk lolita appearance, try donning a pair of leather ankle boots. These boots blend seamlessly with the Victorian-inspired attire while adding a touch of ruggedness and adventure to your overall look. Choose boots with brass accents or buckle embellishments to tie in the steampunk aesthetic.

● The Hairstyle Says It All

Your hairstyle can significantly contribute to the overall impression of your steampunk outfit. While styling your natural hair is an option, wigs provide an opportunity to experiment with various colors, lengths, and styles. Curled, braided, or adorned with delicate accessories, your hair can be a canvas for creativity, allowing you to craft a look that embodies both Victorian elegance and steampunk quirkiness.

● A Bag To Carry Your “Steam Machines” (Or Your Phone)

To complete your steampunk lolita ensemble, opt for a leather patchwork bag with a captivating design (like a camera). The combination of different textures and materials, such as distressed leather and metal accents, enhances the aesthetic appeal while maintaining the genre's rugged charm. This accessory not only serves a practical purpose but also contributes to the immersive steampunk aesthetic, as you’ll feel (almost) right at home in the Industrial Revolution.

Try The Steampunk Substyle!

Steampunk Lolita fashion effortlessly merges the grace of Victorian aesthetics with the innovation and quirkiness of the steampunk genre. With flowing dresses, iconic accessories like top hats and goggles, and intricate details like gear-inspired jewelry, steampunk and lolita enthusiasts alike can craft a distinctive look that captures the essence of both eras. With every element meticulously curated, your steampunk lolita outfit becomes a work of art that reflects individuality and a deep appreciation for the imaginative fusion of past and future.