In the mid 1970s, punk came on the scene. Largely focusing on anti-establishment views and individual freedom of expression, punk become the predecessor of goth culture.
Batcave emerged in the early '80s, named after a club in London.
Meanwhile, on the West Coast in the U.S., deathrock also emerged in the '80s. Both batcave and deathrock evolved between punk and goth.
Romantic goth, popular in the '90s, might be a style you're familiar with, as it's more of an Addams Family vibe, focusing on the beautiful, dark things in life. The look is more flowing and lacy, invoking romance and mystery.
Cyber goths came out of the rave scene in the late 90s, and love techno and industrial music. They often have neon dreads, goggles, and gas masks.
The Lolita goth, sometimes known as the J-goth, is thought to have emerged from Japan in the 2000s. The style focuses on Victorian and Edwardian clothing.
Steampunk is a futuristic Victorian look, with lots of bronze elements, also coming out of the 2000s. This look involves science fiction, fantasy, and role playing.
Pin-up is not necessarily part of goth subculture, but the '50s-inspired look from the late 2000s can definitely have a gothic twist.
Pastel goth is associated with Japanese street style from the early 2010s, and is often referred to as "creepy cute."
Nu goth is a modern goth style that has been very controversial in the goth community. These goths are interested in the occult, symbology and even sacred geometry.
