Goths: Who are they and why are they no longer visible? (8 photos)

First Encounter with the "Black Subculture"





If you went underground in the 1990s or early 2000s, you probably noticed a group of young people in black clothes, heavy makeup, and listening to dark music in their headphones. These were the Goths—one of the most prominent and mysterious subcultures of the late 20th century.

Today, such characters are rarely encountered. But where did they disappear to, and why did such a once vibrant subculture gradually fade away?

Where the movement began



Gothic as a style originated in medieval architecture, but the subculture emerged in the 1970s in Great Britain. After the rise of punk rock, some musicians and fans chose a darker direction—gothic rock.

Bands like Bauhaus, The Cure, and Sisters of Mercy laid the foundation for a new music scene. Their fans began to emulate their style: black clothing, silver jewelry, pale makeup, and an interest in mysticism and dark romance.

Goths emerged in the 1990s, along with the opening of borders and the advent of Western bands.

What Goths looked like and how they lived





Goths were easily recognizable by their appearance:

an all-black wardrobe;

leather jackets, corsets, massive boots;

crosses, ankhs, and skulls in accessories;

white powder and black eyeliner for both men and women.

Unlike the aggressive punks, Goths seemed calmer and more introspective. They gathered in parks and squares, listened to music, discussed literature and philosophy, and enjoyed poetry.

The main themes were death, love, loneliness, and mystery. But this didn't mean Goths were depressives—rather, they found beauty where others saw only darkness.

Why Goths Became Popular



In the 1990s and early 2000s, Goths became part of popular culture. Films and games with dark aesthetics became fashionable: "The Crow," "Interview with the Vampire," and "Van Helsing." Clubs hosted goth parties, and the media eagerly wrote about the "new dark youth."

For teenagers, this was a way to stand out, differentiate themselves from the "gray masses," and find like-minded people.

Where did they go?



By the mid-2010s, Goths had almost disappeared from the streets. The reasons are simple:

The internet has replaced "get-togethers." Previously, subcultures were formed in person—in parks, clubs, at concerts. Today, communication has moved online, and Goths have become less visible.

Fashion has changed. Black makeup and leather corsets have given way to new trends. Young people increasingly express themselves through TikTok and memes, rather than through their appearance.

Blurring of subcultures. While each group once had a distinct aesthetic (punks, metalheads, Goths), today styles are blending. You can love dark music but dress like an office worker.

Generational change. For 21st-century teenagers, "Goth" is something of the past, just as "hippies" were for their parents.



Are they still around today?

While you can no longer find mass "Goths," the subculture hasn't disappeared completely. Goth festivals, concerts, and parties still take place in various cities. There are online communities dedicated to gothic rock and its aesthetics.

It's just that it's no longer a mass movement, but a niche for connoisseurs.



Conclusion

Goths were one of the most prominent teenage movements of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Their style, music, and philosophy left their mark on culture, but with the development of the internet and generational change, the subculture lost its mass appeal.

Today, Goths are alive, but no longer on the streets—they've disappeared online and into the hearts of those who still find beauty in dark romance.