Steampunk Fashions

Although there is no singular definition of steampunk fashion, there are defining aspects. Steampunk is a historical-based eclectic blend of old world items paired with contemporary pieces. Many also associate goth, punk and industrial styles with the SP genre. According to Wikipedia, steampunk is a sub-genre of fantasy and speculative fiction that came into prominence in the 1980s and early 1990s. The term denotes works set in an era or world where steam power is still widely used—usually the 19th century, and often set in Victorian era England—but with prominent elements of either science fiction or fantasy, such as fictional technological inventions like those found in the works of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne, or real technological developments like the computer occurring at an earlier date.

The steampunk fashions & accessories I found on Etsy typically incorporate watch and clock parts, corsets, and feather embellishments. MadArt Jewelry features pieces created by award-winning metalsmith Madelyn Smoak who uses silver, copper, brass and found objects enhanced by using textures and patinas. The Steampunk Bling Necklace is created using an antique safety pinion from a defunct pocket watch, vintage rhinestones, a metal washer that completes the steampunk vibe. Machinist goggles are also staples in the world of steampunk fashion.


SteamPunk Magazine is a publication dedicated to promoting steampunk as a culture, as more than a sub-category of fiction. The publication praises a time before the domestication of electricity when beautiful, monstrous machines lived and breathed and exploded unexpectedly at inconvenient moments. A time where art and craft were united, where unique wonders were invented and forgotten.

This is most likely the root of the DIY aspect that is so evident in steampunk fashion. 19 Moons offers original Steampunk, Neo-Victorian, Retro & Industrial designs. Designs like the clockwork seahorse are imaginative & captivating mechanical pieces.

If you are interested in trying your hand at creating your own steampunk accessories, there are many sources for unique supplies, such as Etsy and EBay. Time Travel Tea Party offers antique skeleton keys and watch faces.

I encourage you to attend The Brass Ball on March 13 if you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth area to see Steampunk fashion up close & personal. The DIY fashion show will feature the new spring collection of Lip Service clothiers along with stylist & accessories designer Tara to the T's creations. Steampunk vendors will be on-hand selling jewelry and other items, so don't forget your cash!