Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Vintage "subcultures" Pt. 2 - Steampunk

Before you skip reading this post because of the "punk" in the title, rest assured - there are plenty of "grown ups" who participate in the steampunk subculture. Not just "punks".

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Steampunk is really, really unique and interesting. There is not a steampunk scene in my area; so I had no idea this existed until I started research into the vintage world. If there were a steampunk scene in my area, I might just have to make an outfit and attend a "steampunk" tea! I love the look. Of course, true Victorian pieces are considered antique, and therefore, quite pricey. So most Steampunk wardrobe pieces will be vintage inspired.

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You've probably seen steam punk and didn't realize it - if you've seen movies like "The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen", "Wild Wild West", "The Series of Unfortunate Events" among others.

"Steampunk" has it's origins in the 1980's and is based on works of fiction by the likes of H.G. Wells and Jules Verne. The style is based on what "Victorians" at the turn of the last century thought people in the future would live like. They had no concept of nuclear power, jet travel, plastics, or any of our modern materials or sources of energy and power.

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Modern steampunk uses elements of typical Victorian style, as well as turn of the century science fiction/fantasy in the form of ray guns, goggles, gears, mechanized objects, weapons, technology, travel, etc. etc.

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Gentlemen's outfits consist of trousers, waistcoats, over coats, smoking jackets, top hats, pocket watches, gun belts, gloves, mechanised accessories, etc.

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OH! If only I could get my husband into an outfit like this..... oh, my. MmmmmHummm.

Ladies outfits include all kinds of different styles: more traditional long, high-waisted skirts and gowns in dark colors that include buckles and other "hardware",

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As well as shorter skirts typical of "can-can" girls of the era

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Frilly hats and veils

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Top hats, duster jackets, walking sticks, and plenty of velvet and lace

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Corsets, and Edwardian styled dresses and tops

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Most "Steampunks" are do-it-yourself -ers and re-fashioners who choose to make their own outfits using a mix of vintage, antique, and handmade items.

I hope you have enjoyed this little informative venture into the vintage fashion world. If you know of other vintage "subcultures" let me know because I am always ready to learn more.

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