Summer

Since the months of pale-reducing sun and makup-melting heat are approaching, I thought I would give a little advice for those of a gothy nature residing somewhere summery.

The sun is not your friend. It can reduce all those hours spent paling (yes, I make myself laugh) to nothing, and the patterned sunburns one recieves through whimsical tights are not at all fun, not to mention the long-term results of sun exposure. That said, hiding indoors all day is neither fun nor conducive to participating in the activities your friends or loved ones may be planning. I suggest a parasol. I don't think I could survive without mine, and lots and lots of sunscreen for your skin. Wearing old-fashioned wide brimmed hats is also a great way to avoid the sun on your face and shoulders, with sunscreen important once again for your arms and legs.

Avoid layering clothing. Going for a more ethereal "floaty" look may be a good idea in summer, as well as lighter, perhaps more natural makeup. Your boots will probably get kind of hot, so wearing mary janes or flats might be a good plan. Lots of lace and other breathable fabrics, although heed the aforementioned warning about silly patterns being tanned on to your skin. If you don't mind being tan, still wear sunscreen to protect your skin from burns and long-term damage.

Black of course "attracts" the sun and heat. I'm not saying don't wear black, just expect to sweat like hell. Your hair may melt a little, depending on what products you use. The summer is a great time to go a little more natural, because between the heat and sun, summer is the worst enemy of many goth fashions.

My own summer wardrobe consists of light skirts, opaque tights and short-sleeve tops, lots of sunscreen and a parasol. Working as a river guide as I do, however,  I tend to get suntanned no matter how much protection I try. On the plus side, if we survive the nuclear winter, no one will have to worry about the sun!