Goth outfit worn by Paula Huntbach, c1980s

This Goth outfit put together and worn by Paula Huntbach reflects the influence of both Punk and the more decorative elements of psychedelia in Goth dress as well as the creative aspect of customising clothes.

The outfit is part of Brighton & Hove Museums' Renegade collection, which illustrates the history of subcultures in Brighton. It includes, from top to bottom:

Black leather bikers jacket, customised with frayed pieces of fabric and painted back panel, c1980.
(CT003842)

Black synthetic full-length dress, with a deep v-neck and train at the back. It was bought for £25 in 1987 from a Goth emporium Kensington Market, London and was described by the wearer as being 'kind of vampirish' because of its 'evening-gown type' style.
(CT003843)

Accessories, including bracelets, necklaces, rings, brooches and studded belts show the Goth interest in the exotic, mystical and macabre.
(CT003846-79)

Black leather boots with straps and metal buckles, customised with scarves and painted decoration, c1985.
(CT003845)

The element missing from this outfit is the hair. As the wearer remarked "the hair seemed the most vital thing, you could have black clothes...pointy boots...silver jewellery but if you had normal hair you could not be a Goth." Paula's hair was long, back-combed and spiked, and dyed black.