Home Decorating Theme - Victorian Goth

Despite the common misconception that being Goth means owning only black (with the exception of white makeup), there are actually several styles within this subculture. From cybertech to glittery, Goth cannot be so easily categorized. In this article we'll explore home decorating ideas for an older type, the Victorian Goth.

A Victorian Goth style home would be filled with lots of different textures, artfully cluttered shelves, basically the antithesis of minimalist. Vintage lamps, chandeliers, and classic art such as Pre-Raphaelite prints could be used in the décor. Lots of wood or antique picture frames and dried rose arrangements are nice touches.

Colors could be deep jewel tones in blue, green, and burgundy, as well as black and ivory. Fabric choices can include velvet, lace, cotton, wool, and brocade. Satin is also a possibility. Fringes, tassels, and dangling beads can be found on curtains, lampshades, and tablecloths.

Furniture would be heavy dark wood such as cherry or mahogany in antique style. Table runners and scarves or touches of vintage lace across the tops of bookcases or a mantel are good choices. Overstuffed, fringed pillows and hat boxes can add to the mélange of the Victorian Goth.

Now that we have an idea of what we are trying to achieve, the next question is where to find what we need?

For the fabrics, any local fabric store should do nicely. If you're looking for brocade, you might need to look online.

http://www.jandofabrics.com - This site has some very nice brocade.

http://www.distinctivefabric.com - This website offers brocade, velvet, and silk.

For the furniture and accessories, estate sales and thrift stores can yield excellent finds. Target also has furniture in dark cherry wood. Craft stores such as Michaels have hat boxes in several styles, as well as art prints. You can also use online sources to locate decorative pieces.

http://www.westgatenecromantic.com - This online shop carries beautiful Victorian Goth cameos and mourning jewelry which can be draped or strewn around your cluttered surfaces. There are also two styles of Victorian lamps.

http://www.ebay.com - Of course, the online source to find just about anything you're trying to find. You can also look up fabric auctions.

For those crafty Victorian Goths, there are several projects available.

http://www.habermanfabrics.com/proj_lampshade.htm - Use this tutorial to match your lamps to your Goth décor.

http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/lv_faux_finishing/article/0,2041,DIY_14109_2269133,00.html - Step by step directions for creating faux mahogany finishes on furniture.

http://www.craftbits.com/viewProject.do?projectID=208 - Directions for making a Keepsake box. This could also be modified for larger or smaller boxes.

http://www.proflowers.com/flowerguide/howtodryflowers - Instructions on drying flowers either by air or microwave, as well as tips on what flowers will dry well.

Additionally, home improvement stores such as Lowe's or Home Depot carry stencils in a damask motif that can be used to give your walls a Victorian era parlor feel.

For the Goth who loves the bygone Victorian era, decorating in this lush and abundant style does not have to be a budget-breaking or overwhelming task. And the effect can be beautiful and timeless.