By: Shannon Hunter

There’s an obvious chill in the air these days. Leaves are turning gold, amber, and crimson and I love it! Jack Frost has already nipped at my nose and I fear we will not see the sun for many moons now. It’s time for Fall to turn towards Winter. With November, comes my favorite time of year–the beginning of the holiday season! Unfortunately, it is also the most nerve-wracking time of year for me and not for the reasons you would typically expect.

Why am I stressed during this magical time? I am a Goth. An Elder, yes, and usually very set in my ways. I have been for many, many years now. This is one of the reasons why the holidays can be so difficult for me to remain true to myself and keep the family happy at the same time. Back in my day (early 80’s at best) dressing like a Goth in a “normal” family definitely puts a crimp in the family photos. An example, you ask? One Christmas I wore a floor-length scarlet velvet gown with an emerald and rhinestone spider web shaped necklace. With my black hair cut a la Louise Brooks and my ruby red lips-I stood out like a bleeding thumb! Needless to say, I over-shadowed the whole family in the photos and I realized that it made me feel a bit sad. After pondering the situation, I determined where the problem lay… The outfit itself was perfectly fine, it was the shade of red that was the problem! Had I chosen a deep burgundy I would have been much more subtle and my gothy self would shine through, not *at*. Such a simple epiphany, and yet one that spoke volumes.

This year, I am grateful that plum and other muted jewel tones are back in again. There are so many scrumptious colors and fabrics out there these days. Imagine a suit made of rich amethyst velvet with jet glass beads and a jaunty tilt hat…stunning and elegant, but not overbearing in the least bit. There are exquisite satins and jacquards that would create a simple pencil satin skirt and blouse set with a frock coat made of the jacquard. Just add a cameo, pin up your hair and go! Speaking of cameos (which are classic), you might consider sporting a foofy white ball gown with a few strands of these underwater gems, the pearl. Remember to add a pair of ballet flats or actual ballet slippers to complete your look. You would remain the belle of the ball and take a nice portrait with the rest of the clan.

As far as appropriate fashion for men during the holidays, try a dark colored velvet suit with a silk shirt and tie. Cufflinks add a nice touch and are easy to find in re-sale shops nowadays. If a gentleman does not wish to wear velvet, put together dark slacks and a dark vest with a frock coat over it. This can seem a bit more feminine to some, but rest assured that the older generations will love it! They may even use words like “dashing” and “dapper.” In a pinch, a dark pair of slacks and a matching blazer with an ascot would work, too. Remember to keep the suit dark, the shirt a nice dark green or burgundy and the ascot black or silver to really make a statement.

Many of the fashions I’ve suggested would delight Grandma, especially if they were true vintage pieces. You never know, Grandma or Grandpa might have some cool pieces stored away in the back of the closet…perhaps they’ll let you peek or dig around in their jewelry boxes…(My favorite part of being at the family’s home!) Fancy and unique clothing is always a great conversation starter at any party and would put you instantly in the spotlight without blotting out the sun. Er, the rest of the family!

You don’t need to “dress down” to please your family this holiday season, in fact, create some magic at your family gathering this year. Rhinestones, silk, and turkey, oh my! Happy Thanksgiving everyone, and dress well. Go forth this season and make me proud!

Photo Credits:

Photo 1:

Photographer: Mark Greenmantle www.elffinarts.com
Model: Brodie Wright http://www.myspace.com/thiswinter

Photo 2:

Photographer: Craig Thomson
Model: Vienna Le Rouge