1. Appearance: Goths often value a specific aesthetic that may involve dark and dramatic clothing, makeup, and accessories, such as black attire, fishnet stockings, corsets, and heavy eyeliner. However, there is room for individual expression and variation within this aesthetic.
2. Music: Music plays a central role in goth culture. Common musical preferences include genres such as post-punk, deathrock, darkwave, and industrial music, which often have dark, introspective, or macabre themes.
3. Events and Gatherings: Goths often organize and participate in events and gatherings that cater to their interests. These can range from themed parties, club nights, and festivals to larger goth festivals like the Whitby Gothic Weekend in England or the Wave-Gotik-Treffen in Leipzig, Germany.
4. Social Etiquette: Goths generally prioritize respect, inclusivity, and tolerance within their communities. This can include accepting diverse beliefs, sexuality, and gender identities, and maintaining a non-judgmental attitude toward others.
5. DIY Ethics: Goth culture also emphasizes do-it-yourself (DIY) principles, with many goths making their clothing, accessories, or even music independently. This promotes self-expression and an appreciation for handmade or unique items.
6. Subcultural Norms: Different goth subcultures may have specific social customs and practices. For instance, cybergoths might incorporate technology and futuristic elements, while vampiric or romantic goths may draw inspiration from vampire culture or Victorian aesthetics, respectively.
7. Rituals and Symbolism: Some goth communities engage in artistic or symbolic rituals, inspired by various influences such as paganism, witchcraft, or spirituality. These practices can include candle rituals, tarot card readings, or attending full moon gatherings.
It's worth noting that goth social customs are subject to change and interpretation, and not all goths adhere to every aspect mentioned above. Some individuals may participate in certain customs while others may choose to focus on different aspects of the culture that align with their interests.