STYLE NEWS / NEW SEASON: GOTHIC FASHION

Featured in   Date 20th August 2008

The high street has come over all Edgar Allan Poe for autumn, with leather, skulls, chains and religious iconography standing out as the key. To create the look go for a combination of punk-influences, rock chick chic and Victoriana with exposed zips, studs, ruffles and lace. However, whether you want to splash the case on high-end designer labels or save your pennies on the high street, remember one tip – mix and match with vintage finds. The Rag Market in particular is an Aladdin's Cave when it comes to authentic Goth.

1: Debut full length satin dress with lace halter-neck, £90, and Jon Richard pearl bracelets, £15 each (three sets worn). All from Debenhams.

2: A lace-edged skirt from Dorothy Perkins brings a feminine feel and costs £40.

3: Gothic romance is a strong look at Warehouse this autumn. Blouse, £45; skirt, £35; lace insert skirt, £35; and the essential corset belt, £35. Available from the Bullring store, Selfridges, Debenhams and House of Fraser.

4: Create your own bat wings with this striking sequinned cape from Monsoon. It costs £50 and could easily pass as one of those rare vintage finds.

5: Catwalk chic from Stella McCartney, who brings romantic to the fore with this beautiful black dress worn with knee-high boots. At Harvey Nichols.

6: Update last winter's wardrobe in an instant with this fluted sleeved satin tunic, £45 from Principles.

7: Lace-up worker boots from Primark are an absolute steal at £15 (due in store early October).

8: Spider bead chain necklace from Freedom at Topshop, priced at £15.