The Gothic subculture emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, primarily from the post-punk music scene. It is characterized by a fascination with dark aesthetics, including Victorian and Edwardian fashion, as well as themes of melancholy, romance, and the macabre. Key musical influences include bands like Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and The Cure. Gothic culture often embraces literature, art, and film that explore darker themes, such as horror and fantasy. Members of the subculture typically express their identity through distinctive clothing, makeup, and accessories, often featuring black clothing, silver jewelry, and dramatic hairstyles.