There are a lot of alternative subcultures relying on dark aesthetics. There are goth, punk, emo, and about a thousand other subgenres of those movements. However, nailing a specific vibe can be hard when you're just starting out. So, whether you aim for a specific goal or just want to give an edge to your everyday wardrobe, we have ways to help you out in our top ten list.

10. Chokers

If you're alt, chokers never really went out of fashion. Really, there's no other jewelry that screams alternative any more than them. Besides, it's always good to keep a couple of chokers necklaces around since it's the one thing that's always guaranteed to come back into fashion. From ancient times to Anne Bolen, then 90s, and, of course, 2014 Tumblr, collar chokers have a chokehold on us (pun intended).

Besides, there's a wide variety to choose from. You can get yourself a simple black strip that goes with anything you have in your closet. You can get the wiry, woven ones and add pendants to them to match your alt outfit. If you still want to look sophisticated, you can choose a Vivienne Westwood style pearl choker or go all out with huge gothic-type ones.

9. Belts

Honestly, belts are such a simple solution that we won't blame you for doing a double-take at the title. But a good belt can change the entire look of an outfit. A good, studded belt makes a three-piece suit look alt. However, other stylish gothic belts might suit your tastes even more. They can have loops, chains, and all sorts of dangly attachments - the important thing is that you like them.

Don't forget that you aren't limited to just the black. If you choose a bright funky color, it might look edgy when dressed up right. Even a neon pink belt can look edgy with some black jeans and combat boots. The most notable thing to keep track of is that fashion isn't a firm set of rules, but there are always exceptions.

8. Chains

Is there something that screams alternative outfit ideas more than some good, old-fashioned chains? The most popular choice is wearing a looping chain on your pants. Or maybe throw on two looping chains if you're adventurous, bold even. But be careful there; you might cut yourself on edge. We don't want to have to call an ambulance for you.

You can also wear these on your jacket or blazer. Yet, be careful of having them on your blazer since you might look like a distinguished 18th-century gentleman who checks the time on his pocket watch. Unless this is the vibe that you're going for, we'd recommend not doing that since it's very far from a punk-rock look.

7. Rings

Another easy way to achieve a more alternative look is an excessive amount of rings. It doesn't matter if they're bulkier or more dainty; adding a ring on a couple of your fingers will instantly spruce up your look. They don't even have to be matching as long as you just jam those suckers on there. Really, just go out and buy a bunch of cheap rings; you won't regret it.

We have a little tip when it comes to buying rings as well. When you're trying them on, it's a good thing if they get a little stuck at the second knuckle. Most people think that that means it's too small and it'll get stuck on your finger, but it's actually the other way around. If a finger slides on seamlessly, it's more likely to get lost.

6. Boots

Some good boots can really make or break an alt outfit. Therefore, fine Doc Martens are always a good option. We'd recommend buying some second-hand ones since the older models are much more durable than the newer ones. However, many more recent models look great as well. You can also opt in for some other run-of-the-mill combat boots.

Yet, there are more options for you to choose from. You could get some high-heeled boots that lace up, for instance. Knee-high boots that lace up are a great look as well. Always be mindful of the lace code, though, since you could unknowingly get yourself in a lot of trouble otherwise. While this does mostly apply to docs, it's good to know for other boots as well.

5. Leather

Leather is practically a staple of a lot of dark fashion clothing. If you're concerned about animal cruelty, you can always choose some faux leather. If you don't like it since it's not environmentally friendly, buy something second-hand. We always recommend purchasing vintage or second-hand clothes if you have the means.

When it comes to what type of clothing, though, the possibilities are endless. While you can have your standard leather jackets, you can also get a leather coat, skirt, or pants. The important thing is to take proper care of your clothes; for leather, that includes putting on some cream once a year (there are special creams for leather, but some regular hand cream would suffice).

4. Fishnets and Lace

Another staple of the alternative outfit ideas are fishnets. You can get the standard fishnet stockings and wear them with a skirt or shorts or under some ripped jeans. You can also get some thigh-high lace stockings or get them in different colors. There are hundreds of designs to choose from, so go with what appeals to you the most.

If you're interested in fishnet sleeves, we have an old trick for you to use. Just get a cheap pair of fishnets, and cut a hole where your nether region should be. Then stick your head through them, and voilà! You have your cool sleeves to go under a T-shirt. It's a trick that folks have been using since the twentieth century, and it's relevant today.

3. Plaid… Well, Kind of

The first thing that you might think of when we say "plaid" is, of course, plaid shirts. This doesn't necessarily scream alt - it screams "TIMBEEEER!" or "I listen to this underground band, you probably haven't heard of them." Or maybe even "Quite some snow we're having, eh?" Yet, you can still style a plaid shirt to look alt.

However, something more important is wearing other plaid things. Mini plaid skirts scream plaid as much as the shirts don't. Imagine yourself wearing a mini plaid skirt with some cute fishnets (no matter your gender, btw) - divine. Or, you can get yourself some skinny plaid jeans, as plaid is timeless. We know skinny jeans are out, but why would you listen to what trends say? It's only so you would buy more products.

2. Red

While the color red might not be the first that comes to mind when someone says "alt," it's a great way to make yourself look edgier. It doesn't really matter what exact shade of red you'll opt for - will it be bordeaux, scarlet, or cherry - anything can get you that edgy vibe. While it's not that big of an al stable like black is, it's still notable.

Just think of a black and red combo - it gives off immense edgelord vibes. Plus, it's much more practical than switching to an all-black wardrobe immediately. After all, you're more likely to have some red as well as some black in your closet than seven all-black outfits. You don't even have to pair it with black if you follow some other tips on this list. Yet, do consider contrasting rules.

1. Black

Of course, what better way than just finding every black item in your closet and wearing that? It's the one thing that spans all of those subcultures, whether it's punk, emo, goth, or something else entirely. Black is one of the must-have colors in your wardrobe, no matter what style you're going for.

Besides, we have some tips when it comes to wearing black clothing. If you have pets, simply be prepared to see every hair that will stick to you. There's no avoiding this, save from having a lint roller on your person every second of every day. Heed this warning, dear reader. Another thing to remember is that you might have to pick clothes out of your wardrobe based on the texture since everything looks the same.

We hope this helped you out on your alt journey. However, we want you to keep in mind that fashion is just that - fashion. You can be a part of the subculture without following the fashion rules - they are only one facet of those cultures. And, if you're not sure of where you want to fall within those subcultures, don't feel pressured to choose.

Did you find these top ten things helpful? Is there something else you'd suggest? Tell us your opinion in the comments!

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