Introduction to Goshikku

What is Goshikku Gyaru? 

This is a fairly small substyle of gyaru, only emerging in more recent decades and being kept alive mostly by the presence of casual goth in today's fashion world. Goshikku, meaning gothic, is a substyle of gyaru that mixes the classic gyaru look with some aspects of mall goth and punk. You keep that Y2K flare with the denim or pleated skirts, lacey tank tops, and large belts, but they're in black and shades of gray apposed to the bright colors normally associated with gyaru culture. The makeup and hairstyles still hold the essence of the classic gyaru look, albeit in darker colors and without the tan, and the entire goshikku substyle comes from the clothing, accessories, and the emphasis of the dark palette. 

Goshikku gyaru is all about leather, studs, fishnets, and spikes. Many of the items have a ripped and grungy look, and there is much more layering involved in goshikku than in classic gyaru. Many goshikku looks incorporate ripped sweaters, fringed tops, layered belts, platform shoes, and goth style fishnets with grungy miniskirts or shorts. Through all of this, it keeps that gyaru silhouette while adding a western alternative flare that makes it unique and also differentiates it from it's more popular close cousin, rokku gyaru.

Why Goshikku Gyaru?

My love for goshikku, and the ultimate decision to use it at my main lifestyle and aesthetic, likely started in middle school before I knew what it was. Goshikku is very similar to rokku, and the most popular example I can think to give for these styles is a franchise we've all likely heard of: Monster High. To me, goshikku gyaru's message and lifestyle is very similar to the one of that series. Be yourself, be a monster, and don't let anyone tell you how to live. 

Gyaru culture is already rooted in breaking the mold and not conforming to standards, and Monster High was always about letting your "freak flag fly" and never letting others dim your spark. These are both things that I've carried with me since I was young, and continue to do so now. Growing up and continuously throughout my life, I've learned from the blend of glam punk and Y2K that is Monster High, and that is what the goshikku lifestyle is me. It's true to the nature of gyaru, breaking molds and defying standards, while also bringing in goth's culture and message of embracing what makes you an outcast and turning it into a positive defining trait.

Overall, goshikku gyaru is something that I feel has defined my life longer than I've even known what gyaru was. It's unique, it's personal, and it's bold in the way that scene was for teens in the 2000s and 2010s. I'm happy to have found it now in more recent years, and to now finally get to embrace the style and the culture. I feel as though I can finally explore a part of myself through the gyaru lifestyle that I've long left abandoned out of fear of being isolated and judged, which is exactly what goshikku is about to me: owning what makes you different.

Keep on being you,

cherricxr