Written By Taylor Coble

Modeled By Hadley Berry, Natalia Cordero, Georgia Horsch, Olivia Shipley, & Daisy Mcdonald

Photographed By Rishita Nannapaneni 

As sunny days fade away and we embrace the overcast weather ahead, our environment around us starts to become reminiscent of a Tim Burton movie. Adapting to our environment means adapting our wardrobe, and Burton’s films can be a great guide for a gothic chic look. Tim Burton's films are often set in an ominous, romantic atmosphere. His affinity for eerie, fantastical settings has inspired fashion designers like Vivienne Westwood, Jonny Johansson, Anthony Vaccarello, Virgil Abloh, and more to explore a realm where darkness meets the beautiful. The “Burtonesque” look embraces gothic fashion, marked in use of rich textures, lace, and somber color palettes. Runways have seen an abundance of garments featuring Victorian-inspired silhouettes, flowing gowns, and lace embellishments that evoke the ethereal beauty seen in Burton's films such as Edward Scissorhands and Corpse Bride. One of Tim Burton's signature traits is his distinctive use of color. His films often employ large amounts of dark, muted tones with bursts of vibrant, unexpected hues. Some would consider this to be boring; however, Burton’s approach to color has inspired experimentation with unconventional palettes and clothing that blend the eerie with the exuberant. 

Achieving the look:

Layering is key to achieving the “Burtonesque” look. Play with different layers like jackets, cardigans, vests, and scarves. Mix textures and fabrics for added depth. If you're comfortable, try a hairstyle that channels a Burton character. Think messy for an Edward Scissorhands vibe or long and dark for a corpse bride look. Dark makeup can also help capture the Tim Burton aesthetic. Consider dark eyeliner, bold lips, and a pale foundation for a Gothic touch. Lastly, the most important aspect of incorporating this style is finding ways to experiment with your closet, and having the confidence to be eclectic. 

Burton’s fearless approach to color has seeped into the collections of fashion designers and has empowered individuals to embrace their unique styles. “Burtonesque” style has made an enchanting yet dark impact on the fashion world. Dressing like a Tim Burton character is all about having fun and expressing your creativity. Whether it's for a costume party or just to showcase your unique style, embrace the darkness that defines Burton's iconic characters.