A Guide to Rocking the Steampunk Look

Have you ever heard someone say “steampunk”? You might be wondering what on Earth it is, or you might already know. For the uninitiated, steampunk is technically a sub-genre of science-fiction that features steam-powered machines. It’s also a type of fashion. Since the setting of steampunk fiction is often a place and time-period inspired by the industrial  nineteenth century, steampunk fashion is heavily influenced by this same period too. You might have seen people wearing steampunk clothing, and it often consists of an entire outfit, not necessarily suitable for everyday wear. But there are ways to incorporate steampunk trends into your outfits, without going all out.

Thanks to Frank Kovalcheck for the image.

Accessories

The most famous of steampunk accessories has to be steampunk goggles. Although you can’t really wear these in the office, they make a fantastic accessory for parties, especially fancy dress. You also don’t need to wear them on your head, and they look great hung around your neck like a necklace. Other steampunk accessories have something of a mechanical feel about them, reflecting the steam-powered machinery popular in the genre. You will often see cogs and exposed bits of machinery on jewellery, watches and clothes. Pocket watches are popular and look pretty dapper, whether you’re a man or woman. You can also wear them on a necklace, instead of on a chain in your pocket.

Jackets

Another way to give your outfit a steampunk look is with a Victorian style jacket or coat. Big double-breasted coats, with flared skirts and nipped in waists look amazing, especially with a row of large metal buttons. Military style jackets and coats fit the theme too, as do flared sleeves and high necks. If it looks Victorian, it looks steampunk.

Skirts and Dresses

Steampunk skirts and dresses again err on the Victorian side. While some can be a bit over-the-top to wear to work or for a day out at the shopping mall, other’s are just fancy enough for a smart day or evening outfit. Think some of Helena Bonham Carter‘s more subdued looks. As with jackets and coats, there’s lots of flared skirts, plus plenty of lace, buttons, tucks, folds and petticoats.

Shoes

Steampunk shoes often come in the form of beautiful Victorian style boots. These might be the easiest thing to get away with wearing to work or out and about if you don’t lead a life where eccentricity is celebrated. These boots can have lots of buckles and jewels, but equally they might just be a pair of fairly plain leather high-heeled ankle boots. High-heels also come in a variety of steampunk styles, embellished with buttons, cogs, laces and chains. They’re a great choice for an edgy evening look.

You might want to go all-out with your steampunk look, but be prepared to get some stares if you wear it anywhere other than a sci-fi convention. If you don’t want to go all the way, the above options are beautifully eccentric touches.