You may have never heard of steampunk, but chances are you’ve seen its influence in fashion without realizing it. Steampunk is a genre of science fiction inspired by 19th-century designs, often featuring steam-powered machinery. What was once a niche culture is now growing in popularity, with its influence starting to appear in mainstream fashion.
Steampunk draws from Victorian England and the American Wild West, while integrating modern technologies in a fresh, sci-fi format. For women, think corsets, layered skirts, and body armor, paired with oversized jewelry that could also have a functional use. For men, think waistcoats, cravats, Victorian hats, uniforms, oversized watches, belts, and eyepieces like goggles or monocles.
Steampunk in Your Wardrobe
If you’re not quite ready to go all-in with a full steampunk look, you can still embrace the style with key pieces. Corseted dresses with gathered skirts were seen in collections by top brands like Prada and Gucci. These styles make a flattering addition to any wardrobe.
Or, choose a statement piece like oversized industrial-style jewelry, made from what looks like spare parts, as seen in recent collections from Balenciaga and Isabel Marant.
The latest designs from Isabel Marant have a steampunk twist
Beyond Fashion: Steampunk’s Cultural Influence
Steampunk isn’t just influencing fashion — it’s also making its mark on technology, with modern appliances taking on old-fashioned, industrial aesthetics. Movies, books, and games have embraced steampunk as well. You can see it in films like The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen and TV series such as His Dark Materials, where fantastical technologies meet 19th-century-inspired designs.
Steampunk’s popularity in gaming is also on the rise, with online communities and games like Second Life offering immersive steampunk experiences where players can explore alternate realities and live out their fantasies in steampunk-themed environments.
A Whole Steampunk Lifestyle
Steampunk is more than just a fashion statement. It’s a subculture that includes music, films, books, gaming, and role-playing.
Followers of steampunk are creative, original, and set themselves apart through their style, attitude, and the unique gadgets they wear or use.
Beauty and Lace is an online magazine for women. We hope you enjoyed this article!