Communicating Authentically

I’ve never been “into” fashion, and in many ways I don’t understand it. I appreciate the fact that fashion is basically wearable art and I can enjoy fashion shows from that perspective, because most of those clothes are not designed for street wear. However, the designers of garments that are sold for general wear seem to assume all women are built like tall, skinny 14-year-old boys. 

I do want to dress attractively, but since I’ve always been shorter than a typical teenage boy and have never been skinny, the “fashionable” styles have almost never looked good on me. I’ve always tended toward predominantly black clothing with jewel-tone accents and flowy, drape-y elements that cover my more chunky parts. I also have very pale skin that is prone to burning within 20 minutes of sun exposure (possibly I’m part vampire?), so I look good in gothic wear. “Witchy fashion” has always appealed to me.

But in the summer, one needs a whole new approach. Black attracts heat uncomfortably, and per the paragraph above, any skin I leave exposed turns red after less than a half-hour in the sun. 

What’s a witch to do? 

A Victorian-era bathing costume is fine for Halloween, but I’m not really aiming to be a source of amusement at the beach.

So I consulted the Google oracle and found this “Witchy Style Guide: 4 Powerful Elements of Gothic Bohemian and Dark Mori Kei Fashion.” It’s from 2020, which I realize is practically obsolete from a fashion perspective, but since my fashion sense is remedial at best, I figured it was close enough. And the “Mori Kei” element definitely drew my interest.

Back in the 2000-2010s, my lovely daughter Jacqueline (please check out her blog History Will Say This Was Just a Book Blog) was into Lolita fashion and all things Japanese. In March of 2012, she was featured in a fashion show at a Los Angeles event called “Japan: Endless Discovery.” The outfit she modeled was in the Mori Kei or Mori Girl style. Mori means forest, and this style is inspired by an aesthetic of one who lives in the forest. 

Definitely a witchy look. 

The style guide linked above suggests “dark” or “murky” colors, but you may want to wear lighter shades if you’re trying to stay cool. If you Google “Mori Witch,” you’ll find lots of fashion inspiration.You may also find references to “Cottage Witch,” which could also spark some ideas.

Floral patterns, flowy skirts, peasant blouses, lacy kimonos – all great for staying covered but still feeling breezy. These can easily be paired with shorts, capris, or swimwear. Weave some dried or silk flowers and greenery into the brim of a big floppy hat to protect your skin from exposure while staying on point style-wise. 

I’ve always loved the forest so I’m particularly drawn to this style, so that is the style I’m leaning toward to beat the heat this summer. 

I didn’t become a witch just for the aesthetic, but as long as I’m here, I may as well enjoy it!

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