We’re officially halfway through winter and the cozy vibes are at an all-time high, which means that reading season is upon us. Grab a hot chocolate, comfortable sweater and, of course, a book and keep reading to see some outfits inspired by my bookshelf.
The Hellbound Heart by Clive Barker
The origins of the film Hellraiser comes from The Hellbound Heart by Clive Barker, a story following Frank on a quest to ultimate pleasure and Julia who reaches into the depths of pain to help him. With Frank’s search for ultimate pleasure, and in turn, ultimate pain, along with the overall vibe of the novella, leather and harnesses are a must have. The spiked headband is in homage to Pinhead, the infamous Cenobite from the film franchise.
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien follows a hobbit named Frodo on a quest to destroy a powerful ring. On this quest he meets many creatures, including my favourite- elves. The elves from Lord of the rings are ethereal with flowy silhouettes and long hair. For a more modern faerie twist, I chose this black strappy shirt with a mini skirt. Although, the pointy ear jewelry screams elf along with the ivy leaf corset inspired by nature.
All of us Villains by Amanda Foody and Christine Lynn Herman
All of us Villains by Amanda Foody and Christine Lynn Herman is marketed as The Hunger Games with magick, and it doesn’t disappoint. Filled with dark aesthetics and crystal jewelry, this novel was built for fashion inspo. While impractical for the battlefield, a mini skirt pairs perfectly with the more practical combat boots and witchy school-girl shirt.
We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson
We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson is a gothic mystery novel following the Blackwood sisters and their uncle after the death of the rest of their family. It is witty, off putting and eerie. I imagine it styled with a lot of black and lace, especially for the unreliable narrator, Mary Katharine, who is written to appear younger than her actual age of 18. Pair this collared dress with white sneakers to create a fit perfect for Mary Katharine’s dark innocence.
Dracula by Bram Stoker
Details: hair clips, top, skirt, tights.
We all know the story of Dracula, a gothic horror vampire novel filled with images of crucifixes, blood and an overall dark ambiance. This all black ensemble screams gothic vampire, with a cut out cross shirt and leather mini-skirt. Black hair and micro bangs are a must with these bat hair clips representing Dracula’s ability to shapeshift.
Final Thoughts
Books make great inspiration for outfits, whether it be through your own imagination or the author's description. As a challenge, next time you pick up a book, try creating an outfit to match!