Persecuted
Historically, witches were not always the enigmatic heroines we adore today. For centuries, witch-hunting in Europe and America was a political and social tool to keep women under control. The Inquisition and the Salem trials, for example, sought not only to ‘eliminate’ those who practised black magic but also independent, intellectual and transgressive women (and also men and children, but to a lesser extent). Tens of thousands of executions are estimated for women who were often simply midwives, healers or people who did not fit the mould that patriarchal society had set for them.
However, like any symbol of rebellion, the witch did not disappear; she was transformed. In the 19th century, gothic literature and romanticism began to redraw witches as mysterious and attractive, though still often evil, figures. In the 20th century, Hollywood turned them into icons of particular style and power. From the elegant witches of Suspiria to the unforgettable Samantha of Bewitched and the sisters of Young Girls and Witches, magical women became powerful, defiant and, above all, free.
Dyeing life black... and determination
Black, the colour associated with the ominous, the occult and the mysterious, has long been an undisputed fashion staple. Who hasn't heard the phrase ‘black goes with everything’? But beyond its elegance and versatility, black has a deep historical significance. Since the Middle Ages, it has been the colour of the outcasts, of those who did not want to follow the rules. Witches, who were associated with danger and the forbidden for centuries, began to be seen as a symbol of defiance. The colour black was their invisibility cloak and, simultaneously, a cry of resistance. Black cats, their companions.
Today, the legacy of that aesthetic can be seen in brands such as Alexander McQueen, who played with gothic elements, dramatic corsets and a dark, mystical atmosphere in his collections. Rick Owens, known for his apocalyptic style, takes this concept to the extreme with garments that evoke the rebirth of the modern urban witch: powerful, different, free from judgement and social norms. And who doesn't remember that iconic Kate Moss for Martine Stibons in 1993 or the ‘blue witches’ of Comme des Garçons?
Even popular fashion, from 90s chokers to leather jackets and combat boots, has adopted elements of this ‘witch aesthetic’, emphasising individuality and rejecting traditional conventions.
Halloween and pop empowerment
When Halloween comes around, many women choose to dress up as witches. However, beyond the cliché of the ‘sexy witch’, there is an interesting fact there. The simple fact of choosing this costume, even without realising it, is connected to a story of resistance and vindication. In a world where the female body is still regulated and controlled, the witch embodies the woman who chooses for herself, who is not afraid to be strong, independent and even dangerous or ‘ugly’. She is a symbol that female power can be both intimidating and attractive.
Moreover, pop culture has perpetuated this image. From the characters of American Horror Story: Coven or The Love Witch to the aesthetics of Lana Del Rey or Billie Eilish, the modern witch takes control of her narrative, whether in a flowing dress or a black leather jacket.
The legacy of the witch in modern fashion
Why this fascination with witchcraft and fashion? The witch represents subversive power, the transgression of norms, and the refusal to be pigeonholed. In a world where women still fight for rights, the witch aesthetic has become a form of visual resistance. The simple act of wearing something that evokes witchcraft—be it a gothic cape, a ring with lunar symbols, or dark lipstick—is a way of connecting to a history of women who, despite everything, have refused to be controlled.
In short, fashion, feminism and witchcraft are intertwined in fascinating ways. What was once a symbol of persecution and fear is today a banner of resistance and power. This intertwining of fashion, feminism, and witchcraft is a celebration of the resilience and power of the female spirit. Long live the witches!
