The History of Witchcraft in Fashion
From shadowy forests to runway spotlights, witchcraft has long cast its spell over fashion. What was once used to label outcasts and heretics is now a symbol of power, rebellion, and identity, especially in metal, punk, goth, and alternative subcultures. Witch-inspired fashion has evolved from ritual robes to black-on-black streetwear and graphic tees covered in sigils, moons, and spellcraft.
Witchcraft and fashion first collided not on runways, but in fear and folklore. During the witch trials of the 16th and 17th centuries, women who wore veils, dark cloaks, or clothing considered too eccentric were often accused of being witches. The aesthetic of “The Witch” became coded as otherworldly, mysterious, and dangerous.
The black garments now beloved by alt culture were once symbols of social exclusion and suspicion.
Left, dress by Ossie Clark. Right dress by Zandra Rhodes
The 1960s and ‘70s sparked a major revival of esoteric interest, blending with feminist movements and psychedelic fashion. Designers like Ossie Clark and Zandra Rhodes introduced flowing silhouettes, colorful prints, and celestial motifs into mainstream fashion. Meanwhile, underground fashion scenes embraced the dark side, leather, lace, and esoteric jewelry all became statements of empowerment.
Siouxsie Sioux of Siouxsie and the Banshees
The 1980s brought in post-punk and deathrock aesthetics, with bands like Siouxsie and the Banshees and Bauhaus influencing a wave of gothic fashion. Pentagrams, crucifixes, and velvet cloaks weren’t just stage props; they were acts of spiritual rebellion.
Left: Killstar, Center: BlackCraft Cult, Right: Stay Cold Apparel
Today, witchcraft aesthetics are more accessible than ever. Brands like Killstar, BlackCraft Cult, and Stay Cold Apparel have built massive followings by blending occult symbolism with bold graphic design, dark humor, and a commitment to alternative culture. Whether it’s a tee with a spell circle, a hoodie emblazoned with a sigil, or socks featuring the words “Believe in Yourself (and Satan),” these pieces reflect a growing desire to wear identity and belief on your sleeve.
Sleep Terror Clothing walks that same path but with our own twist of tattoo-inspired occultism, Satanic influence, and occult imagery. Our audience—like theirs—isn’t just following a trend. They’re building a wardrobe around empowerment, mysticism, and the aesthetics of defiance.
Today's alternative fashion lovers aren’t just consumers following trends; they’re the curators of their own aesthetics, reality, and mythologies.
At its core, fashion inspired by witchcraft is about power. It’s about owning your shadow, embracing mysticism, and rejecting norms. Whether it's through a black t-shirt with an occult sigil or a spellbound accessory, you're not just making a style choice, you're making a statement.
Witch fashion isn’t going anywhere. It just keeps evolving and looking damn good while doing it.