Steampunk Show
Photography by Peter Nappi
There are few æsthetic motifs evoking as much fascination and emulation as steampunk is nowadays. From European runways to Hollywood studios, many artists and creators strive to evoke the prestige and elegance of the Victorian œuvre. But where did it all start, and more importantly, how does it make its mark on the fashion world?
Photography by Mark Feigenbaum
To simplify, steampunk is Victorian-era science fiction. Anything that can be envisioned as a part of a scientifically-advanced “steam” era can be properly described as steampunk. Steampunk finds its origins in literature, going back to the works of Mary Shelley, Jules Verne and H.G. Wells. The term was coined in the late 80s by sci-fi author K.W. Jeter as a bit of a tongue-in-cheek joke. The moniker nonetheless stuck, and has found itself attached to an entire array of movements and works, each trying to realize today’s technology with 19th century’s resources.
Photography by Gabi Porter for Metro Mix
Plainclothes Victoriana could be as legitimate a part of the steampunk look as the most brass-gear laden airship pirate. Sometimes only a little tweak of anachronistic technology is what it takes to give something that steampunk edge. Designers such as McQueen (RIP), Gaultier, and Galliano have all incorporated steampunk elements into their collections. Today, steampunk is recognized as an æsthetic movement that incorporates the best of the past, and points it towards the future.
“Goodness me!” “By Jove, it’s incredible!” “Dah-ling, they’re spectacular!” “It’s like the world of tomorrow – yesterday!”
Steampunk 2010
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, these were but a few of the words from stunned onlookers as they gazed upon the glory of the Brooklyn Indie Market’s first two annual steampunk events, and this year it becomes even greater!
We sally forth now from our humble beginnings, and will be holding this year’s event in the illustrious DUMBO Lofts! Come and behold the wonder of 19th Century sophistication combined with the latest, cutting edge technologies! Thrill to your heart’s desire as the Northeast’s most remarkable neo-vintage designers bedazzle you with their fashion masterpieces! Music, food, and educational supplements from esteemed literary and historical scholars will all help vivify the experience of the future as it never was, the past as it could have been – STEAMPUNK!
On October 24th, the worlds of Jules Verne and H.G. Wells will spring to life in what New York Magazine’s fashion blog has declared “A feast for the eyes!” ~August Wahnsinger
