I was inspired to write this post when someone asked me what being goth meant to me. To be honest, it is not something I have thought about for a very long time. In this post, I am going to discuss how I merge Gothic Victorian charm with hedgewitch craft.
The blend of Victorian Gothic style with hedgewitch craft may seem unconventional or odd to some, but to me, it’s a harmonious expression, and it just, well, fits me.
Finding Myself in the Shadows: My Victorian Gothic Journey
There are so many different types of goths these days!
For me, being goth is a self-expression, yes, but more than black clothes—being goth is part of who I am. I’m more of a Victorian goth; it’s reflected in my clothes, music (the more dramatic, the better), books, poetry, art… Even my home—I live in a Victorian house, thanks to my husband, who had it before he met me.
I have been a goth since my late teens, which was many moons ago. Many times, due to pressure in the early years, I tried to dress more mainstream, shall we say? But it just made me so unhappy; I didn’t feel like me.
The Heart of Hedgewitchery
As a hedgewitch, I draw inspiration from Celtic, Mainl Irish traditions while adapting my practices to contemporary life. My hedgewitchery often revolves around spirit work and the ability to traverse the metaphorical “hedge.” see here for more about hedgeriding
The Allure of Victorian Gothic
I have been interested in the Victorians since I was a child and loved learning anything about them. I love some of the styles of the era that embrace the mysteries and macabre. I love the intricate designs and patterns, the rich colours. To me, it is a visual language that speaks of hidden depths and many untold stories
Where Shadows Meet Magic
The convergence of Victorian Gothic and hedgewitch craft creates a powerful synergy for me. The Victorian era’s fascination with the supernatural and the natural world aligns seamlessly with my connection to nature and the spirit realm. My Victorian home serves as the perfect backdrop for spellwork and communion with spirits; its aged walls hold secrets and memories that I feel fuel my mystical practices.
I am currently uncovering the history of our house, which I find fascinating. Learning about the people who built it and those who lived here has deepened my appreciation of my home. Me and my husband often say to each other, we are the custodians of it.
Embracing Uniqueness
My path as a Victorian Gothic hedgewitch is one of constant discovery and growth. It’s about finding beauty in the shadows, wisdom in the past, and magic in the everyday. Victorian Gothic and hedgewitchery are my true calling. It is a place where the elegance of the past meets the magic of nature and where my personal style becomes a powerful expression of my spiritual journey.
If you walk a unique path, I encourage you to continue, and please do get in touch and tell me about it.
Gothic Charm School: An Essential Guide for Goths and Those Who Love Them by Jillian Venters (Author), Pete Venters (Illustrator) Here free on kindle unlimited, see here. Kindle version £1.99 paperback £10.99
Gothic Life: The Essential Guide to Macabre Style Hardcover – by Aurelio Voltaire (Author) Kindle version £12.99 hardback £12.89
Corset underbust. from £6.99. Comes in 17 colours. I have the wine red and black. See here.
Leather-bound vintage journal, 200 pages, and a key. £15.99. See here.
I highly recommend the Pagan Portals books. Take a look here