How to Dress Goth in Summer

Summer is a conflicting season for goths. On the one hand, you have amazing festivals and can show off your outfit without needing a big jacket. Conversely, huge platform boots and all-black ‘fits don’t exactly scream “summer”. 

As much as we’d all love to don our leather and stomp around in our big boots all year round, heatstroke is a bit of a vibe killer. 

At Attitude Clothing, we’ve been through many a hot day, learning how to put together a gothic summer outfit without feeling like we’ll melt into a puddle or turn into dust. We’re happy to report that you can survive the summer while still looking and feeling like your best gothic self. 

TLDR: Dressing Goth in summer is possible without overheating by focusing on lightweight, breathable materials while maintaining the dark aesthetic. Tips include:

  • Wearing lightweight items like flowy dresses, skirts, or shorts instead of thick leather and heavy boots.
  • Opting for sandals or lighter footwear to keep feet cool.
  • Using accessories (sunglasses, chains, jewellery, fishnets) to add dimension without bulk.
  • Wearing waterproof makeup to prevent meltdowns.
  • Crucially, apply SPF liberally and avoid the hottest hours of the day (11 AM to 3 PM).

Table of contents

Tips for creating goth summer outfits

Quick tips for beating the heat

Enjoy your gothic summer with Attitude Clothing

Tips for creating goth summer outfits

Despite popular belief, dressing goth in summer is perfectly possible. While your thick hoodies, huge boots and leather choker might need to stay in the wardrobe, there are plenty of ways to express your gothic self without overheating. 

SPF 

Before we get into clothing tips, we can’t stress enough how important it is to slap on the sun cream! Layer it up before you head out, and take some with you to re-apply throughout the day, especially if you’re planning on taking a dip in the water. Many sunscreens are on the market, including spray-on and stick formulas for easy application. Ensure any fresh tattoos are protected. Sunburn on new ink is not only painful, but it can cause your tattoo to distort and make the ink leak out. Keep any fresh ink covered, or smother it in factor 50. 

Lightweight items

Not to state the obvious, but thick, heavy clothing will not be your friend on the hottest days. Instead, opt for lightweight materials and items. Pick out items from your wardrobe like dresses, skirts, shorts and lightweight tops to let your body breathe. 

Whether it’s a festival, a day at the beach or workwear, Attitude Clothing has summer looks for every goth.

Dresses

Our gothic dresses have styles to suit every alt-enthusiast. There are flowy styles for looking and feeling cool and more fitted designs perfect for a summer night out. 

Skirts

Skirts are another great choice for beating the heat. Whether you opt for an edgy mini skirt or a swooshy midi or maxi, they will keep you feeling cool while still letting you express yourself. 

Shorts 

A summer staple, but make it goth. Our collection has heat-beating designs that still make you feel like yourself. With edgy detailing and classic goth patterns, our shorts will surely find a place in your summer rotation. 

Accessories 

When your look’s missing something and extra clothes aren’t an option, accessories are the best way to add more dimension to your summer goth outfit. The hot weather provides plenty of opportunities for accessories. Sunglasses, jewellery and chains all have the chance to take centre stage. 

A pair of fishnets is a perfect summer solution. They bring an extra dimension to your look without adding unwanted heat. Just remember to wear sun cream underneath to avoid any funky tan lines! Find your favourites in our collection of tights at Attitude Clothing. 

Channel classic Victorian goth vibes by carrying an umbrella! Not only are you prepared for summer downpours, but you’ll also have on-demand access to shade on sunny days. What’s not to love? 

Footwear 

Even the strongest gothic soldiers have to give up on their favourite boots eventually. Our feet have many pulse points, with blood vessels close to the surface. If your feet are too hot, the rest of your body will overheat, too. Keep your toes feeling cool and airy by opting for a pair of sandals.

Our range has gorgeous styles that allow you to flaunt your gothic credentials while beating the heat. From sky-high platforms to more understated vibes, you will find a pair to fit your wardrobe.  

Waterproof makeup 

Just because it’s summer, it doesn’t mean you must neglect eyeliner. Waterproof makeup will be a lifesaver on hot days, helping you avoid a makeup meltdown. But, honestly, even if your eye makeup goes astray, just call it grunge and embrace it! Summer is about having fun not worrying about your makeup. Make sure you have a layer of SPF on to protect your lovely face. 

Quick tips to beat the heat

Finally, we’re leaving you with some quick-fire tips for beating the heat and staying cool throughout the summer.

  • Where possible, avoid going out during the hottest hours of the day, usually between 11 AM and 3 PM. 
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol. 
  • Keep your home cool by closing curtains during the hottest hours. Open windows to let the cool air circulate as the temperature drops in the evening.
  • Cool down with a cold shower, or dip your hands and feet in cold water. Your wrists and ankles have many blood vessels close to the skin that help you cool down quicker. 
  • Eat light meals, including foods with high water content, such as cucumber, celery and lettuce. 
  • Avoid working out during the hottest hours of the day. Exercise gently early morning or later in the evening when the temperature isn’t so high. 

Enjoy your gothic summer with Attitude Clothing

Explore summer essentials and so much more at Attitude Clothing, from alternative homeware to gothic cosmetics. We have everything you need to live your best goth life this summer and beyond. 

You might like:

What is Trad Goth?

What it Means to be Emo

Step into Confidence: The World of Pleaser Shoes

Comments are closed here.