Rubie's Punk Goth Costume, Medium
If you‘re anything like me, "regular" mall clothing stores are just too vanilla for your alternative taste. As a hardcore fan of punk, goth, skater, and other rebellious styles, I need shops that really understand my passion for self-expression through edgy fashion. That‘s why I basically live at Zumiez whenever I can scrape together some cash for new threads. With their incredible selection of band tees, Vans sneakers, and anything plaid or ripped, Zumiez totally speaks my language! But a girl can only rotate so many anarchy symbol hoodies before needing some fresh style fuel, you feel me? And while I‘ll always heart Zumiez, even I crave some variety after a while. That‘s why today I‘ll be sharing the nitty gritty on 12 killer stores just like Zumiez—boutiques and shops with the same types of cutting-edge streetwear and punk rock gear that us alt babes crave! Consider this your master guide to shopping beyond the mainstream and keeping your rebel fashion game strong. Now I know plenty of basic folks think Zumiez sells weird clothes only goths or skaters would wear. But as any alternative queen knows, their products celebrate freedom, self-expression, and resisting boring societal norms through dope threads! The retailers I‘ll describe here capture that same rebellious spirit, whether they lean more punk, hip hop, or skate-influenced. However, they all provide awesome graphic tees, accessories, shoes, bags, and other gear to outfit you in style that fits your totally unique personality. I‘ll specifically call out top brands you can expect along with price points so you can find stores matching your budget. And because rewards programs and sales mean everything, I got deets on saving extra cash too! Let‘s start shaking up your wardrobe…here are the 12 best Zumiez alternative shops guaranteed to satisfy us punks, skaters, goths, and anyone else bored AF with basic fashion! For my first pick among stores similar to Zumiez, allow me to put Canadian fast fashion retailer Urban Planet on your radar. With over 150 locations across North America stuffed with the latest alternative street styles, Urban Planet offers easy access to shop small or max out those credit cards! I seriously love how Urban Planet divides up their stores to highlight top trends from all the coolest subcultures. Like you can instantly spot sections for hip hop clothes, rave wear, goth goods, and other sweet alternative fashion without wandering around lost first. And their prices are beyond amazing for broke babes on budgets—graphic tees cost around $20, dresses and jeans go for $30-40, and hoodies land under $60. Plus new shipments of merch arrive literally every week, so you‘ll almost never spot another girl in your school rocking the same outfit unless she also gets the Urban Planet hookup! Standout brands carried include We Are Disorderly, Rewritten, Pleasures, and Prvrt—all edgy labels producing mad rebellious gear. But between graphic muscle tanks, chain wallets, and plaid pants galore, you‘ll discover fierce pieces from trendy designers rarely spotted in mainstream malls. Another bonus? Urban Planet is big on hosting sick sales events that stuff even more goodies into our closets without emptying our pockets! I once grabbed two choker necklaces, a bralette, and distressed shorts for just $50 thanks to a 50% off everything promo. So stay on email alert for the retailer‘s steady stream of epic deals and discounts. Overall, whether you dig loud statement pieces or channel a more subtle gothic vibe through drapey silhouettes and muted colors, Urban Planet needs to become your Canadian bestie ASAP! Another must-add shop for your Zumiez alternative squad? Digital-exclusive retailer Dolls Kill! Celebrated as the online destination for rebel babes seeking clubwear with a slit-your-throat edge, Dolls Kill offers some of the fiercest punk, goth, and 90s throwback gear in existence. And their mission transcends simply selling rad clothes. Everything Dolls Kill produces empowers badass feminists and LGBTQIA+ communities to embrace self-love and a “f*** the patriarchy” mindset! Now Dolls Kill leans pricier than our first pick, Urban Planet—graphic muscle tanks run $38, mesh bodysuits fall around $45, and their iconic Soul Creeper sneaker collaborations with Puma ring up for $150+. However, by investing in quality statement pieces with an avant-garde yet nostalgic vibe, you end up with wardrobe heroes to rock for years rather than just a season. And Dolls Kill often hosts killer sales—think sitewide 30% off or $10 graphic tanks—allowing you to score magnesium steals! I also love how this site divides alternative styles by subcultures, so you can instantly select either “Goth,” “Nu Goth,” “Punk,” “Raver,” or “Skate” categories search for new goods. And their discrete Afterpay installment payments help avoid blowing your budget in one haul! For alt babes craving sexy club looks with dark romantic or 90s influences, Dolls Kill earns major bestie points. Skim through their freakin’ epic selection of fishnets, corsets, and mini skirts perfect for showing off your assets and subtweeting the patriarchy! Alright, for shop #3 in my ultimate Zumiez alternatives list, please welcome longtime SoCal favorite Tilly’s! This OG surf and skate outfitter opened way back in 1982 with a mission providing legit boards and gear to shred city streets and seaside breaks in style. And while Tilly’s still hooks it up with decks, trucks, etc. across over 240 stores nationwide today, their awesome fashions steal the spotlight for punk babes craving Zumiez vibes beyond the mall. We talking entire walls full of edgy graphic muscle tanks, soft flannels begging to be thrift-flipped into crops, and comfy joggers from go-to skater brands like Vans, Volcom, and Brixton. I pretty much exclusively buy my winter beanies at Tilly’s too thanks to their buy-one-get-one-half-off policy helping my dollar go further. Pricing sits right in line with Zumiez, making this SoCal legend an affordable option compared to more luxe alternative shops. Like most Tilly’s graphic tees retail around $25, which even leaves cash for a few band pins to stud up your backpack after purchase. And to help low-key goths avoid overwhelming patterns, Tilly’s also stocks wardrobe essentials in classic black or heather gray tones. I snagged the comfiest racerback tank for just $12 during one of their summertime clearance bonanzas! Bottom line? Whether you mosh in mosh pits or just wish you radiated that much coolness energy, rock merch from Tilly’s for affordable alt vibes with SoCal DNA! Swinging along the Golden State coast, PacSun also earns top honors as an OG Zumiez alternative carrying legit surf and skater gear since 1980! Back in its heyday, middle school mall rats like me and my friends made pilgrimages to worship the Vans, Volcoms, and Billabongs like sacred relics Linkin Park blessed or something. Today PacSun keeps its street cred strong with shops across America filled with both upstart and established alt brands. Like in addition to all the usual skate suspects, PacSun stocks its vibrant printed shirts, beach-to-bar dresses, and slouchy joggers from trendy designers like Princess Polly, Kendall + Kylie, and Branded Online. And since PacSun functions as a specialty retailer versus fast fashion warehouser, you can score super unique clothing and accessories guaranteed miles away from whatever basic Target outfit Becky tried passing off as not-cookie-cutter-conformity today. Pricing definitely exceeds our first couple stores listed, with graphic tees running around $40 and hoodies hitting the $65 range. However, catching one of PacSun‘s signature sitewide sales means ultimately stocking up on these Zumiez alternatives for less. I‘d specifically recommend hitting their constant "Buy One Get One 50% Off” promotions to essentially score two pieces for the price of one! Lastly, PacSun‘s fierce loyalty program ranks among the best for alternative fashion shops! Their PacPerks system dishes free birthday coupons, $5 awards for every $100 spent, 10% off passes, and more. Just downloading their app snags a unique coupon for even deeper discounts too. Now I know you‘re probably scratching your head with serious doubts about how Zappos—an online shoe store also hawking mom jeans—could ever rank among the most killer stores like Zumiez. Well my curious little baby bats, grab a seat on this coffin couch because Auntie Morticia‘s about to spill the tea! Here‘s the deal: over the past few years, Zappos quietly started expanding their merchandise selection beyond just shoes and basics. We talking flashy platform creepers covered in buckles, next level streetwear-athleisure collaborations with PUMA and Champion…I‘ve even discovered gothic maxi dresses perfect for my Morticia Addams cosplay! Basically, this mega online retailer utilizes its buying power and stable of hundreds of brand partnerships to dish smaller niche labels we counter culture kiddos crave. And even though their prices exceed fast fashion spots like Urban Planet, the quality also proves significantly higher. For example, graphic tees from alt brands like Killstar, Tripp NYC, and Insight typically ring up around $48 each. Now that‘s pricier than a $15 band tee from Zumiez for sure. However, you also enjoy thicker fabrics maintaining structural integrity even after multiple washes, longer lengths staying tucked perfectly into high waisted shorts, and vibrant designs not cracking or fading over time. Basically, view Zappos as the high fashion alternative to stores similar to Zumiez focused solely on mass production and trends rather than quality investment pieces with longevity. And with guaranteed free shipping and returns for all orders, why not expand your alt wardrobe horizons a bit? Worst case, just send it all back but at least you gave auntie’s unconventional suggestion a try! Okay baby bats, hopefully my top picks have already sparked plenty of fiendish fashion ideas for shaking up your alt wardrobe! But during my own relentless hunt for the most chilling clothing and ghoulish gear money can buy, I discovered a coffin‘s worth of additional stores like Zumiez also earning stamps of approval: I don‘t know about you baby bats and ghouls, but simply writing this killer master guide already has me fiending to rip through my closet and purge anything even remotely basic! The shops above definitely prove we can indulge our alternative appetites even after our faithful mall staple Zumiez leaves our wallets barren. Whether you lean more punk, pastel goth, skater chick or celebrate subcultures still awaiting invention, these retailers help every rebellious fashionista access self-expression. So avoid limiting yourself only to what the mainstream malls dishes, ‘aight? With the glorious gritty stores above ready to welcome each and every modern misfit, our middle finger wardrobes can finally do ALL the talking! Now hurry up and share this guide before I get another detention for spiking Catholic school skirts alone!! And def hit me up about your own fave Zumiez alternative hidden gems in the comments. Us spooky babes gotta stick together, feel me?! Stay savage and sinister!! XOXO Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry. Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public. Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors. Tractor Supply has nearly everything you need for your pets, so you can get a lot done in a single visit. Does Tractor Supply do cash back? As a beauty editor who‘s tested hundreds of skincare brands, I get asked constantly for my… Amazon Prime comes with several benefits for a monthly or annual subscription fee. You may wonder: is Britbox free with Amazon Prime? Hey girl! Was scrolling through Instagram when I discovered this cool new fitness brand called Lit… If you have T-Mobile, you might be experiencing a slowdown on the network and want to know: why is T-Mobile so slow? Sam’s Club is one of the most popular warehouse-style retailers in the country. You may be wondering: Sam's Club Instacart. The Goth subculture, born from the post-punk music scene in the late 1970s and early 1980s, has evolved into a diverse and richly layered community. Over the years, various branches of Goth culture have emerged, each with its unique style, influence, and ethos. From the dark romanticism of Victorian Goths to the futuristic aesthetics of Cyber Goths, these different Goths express their individuality through fashion, music, and lifestyle choices. This blog will explore 20 types of Goths, highlighting their distinct characteristics and what sets them apart. Traditional Goth, also known as Trad Goth, is the original form of the Goth subculture that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Rooted in post-punk music, bands like Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and The Cure heavily influence the Traditional Goth aesthetic. Fashion typically includes black clothing, leather jackets, fishnets, combat boots, silver jewelry, and cross accessories. Makeup is often dramatic, with pale foundation, dark eyeliner, and bold lipstick colors like black or deep red. Traditional Goths value the darker side of life, often embracing themes of melancholy, romanticism, and introspection. They are known for their love of Gothic literature, horror films, and anything that evokes a sense of mystery and the macabre. Music is central to the Traditional Goth identity, with an emphasis on moody, atmospheric sounds that reflect the subculture’s somber yet rebellious spirit. Traditional Goth is about staying true to the subculture’s roots while expressing individuality through a timeless, dark aesthetic. Victorian Goth is a subgenre that draws inspiration from the Victorian era, both in fashion and lifestyle. This type of Goth is characterized by an appreciation for the elegance and romanticism of the 19th century, emphasizing intricate, historically inspired clothing. Victorian Goth fashion includes long, flowing dresses, corsets, lace, top hats, and parasols, often in dark colors like black, deep purple, or burgundy. Accessories such as cameos, lace gloves, and chokers are also common. Victorian Goths are often fascinated by the Victorian period’s literature, art, and architecture. They may be interested in authors like Edgar Allan Poe, Mary Shelley, and Bram Stoker, whose works explore themes of death, romance, and the supernatural. This subculture embraces old-world charm and refinement, often incorporating elements of mourning attire and funerary aesthetics into their wardrobe. Music for Victorian Goths may include classical compositions, darkwave, or ethereal wave, which complement their love for the haunting beauty of the past. Cyber Goth is a futuristic and technology-oriented branch of the Goth subculture that blends industrial music and rave culture elements. This type of Goth is known for its vibrant, neon-colored clothing and accessories, often including PVC, latex, and fishnet materials. Cyber Goths also embrace technological themes, usually incorporating gadgets, LED lights, and cybernetic motifs into their outfits. Hairstyles are typically bold, featuring brightly colored synthetic dreadlocks or extensions. The music associated with Cyber Goths includes industrial, EBM (Electronic Body Music), and techno, with bands like VNV Nation, Combichrist, and Front 242 being popular. Cybergoths are often found at raves, industrial clubs, or specialized Goth events that focus on dance, energy, and the fusion of human and machine. The aesthetic is heavily influenced by science fiction, cyberpunk literature, and dystopian themes, making Cyber Goth one of the most visually distinct subgenres of the Goth culture. Romantic Goth is a subgenre that emphasizes the beauty and passion of Gothic romance, often drawing inspiration from 19th-century Gothic novels and poetry. This type of Goth is characterized by a love of the dramatic, melancholic, and poetic. Fashion for Romantic Goths includes flowing dresses, velvet, lace, and often Victorian-inspired clothing, but with a softer, more romantic touch. Colors like deep reds, purples, and blacks are common, and accessories might include roses, chokers, and silver jewelry. Romantic Goths are often drawn to the works of poets like Lord Byron, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and John Keats, as well as Gothic novels such as “Wuthering Heights” and “Jane Eyre.” Music for Romantic Goths tends to be more melodic and atmospheric, with a preference for ethereal wave, darkwave, and Gothic rock bands like Dead Can Dance and Cocteau Twins. The overall aesthetic of Romantic Goths is one of timeless beauty. They focus on expressing deep emotions and a love for the darker, more tragic aspects of life. Steampunk Goth is a unique fusion of the Gothic subculture and the steampunk genre, which combines Victorian-inspired fashion with futuristic, steam-powered technology. This type of Goth is known for its creative, DIY approach to fashion, incorporating elements like corsets, top hats, goggles, and mechanical accessories into their outfits. The color palette often includes browns, bronzes, and coppers, reflecting steampunk’s industrial, metallic aesthetic. Steampunk Goths are inspired by the works of authors like H.G. Wells and Jules Verne, who envisioned alternative histories where steam power remained the dominant force. This subgenre also draws from the aesthetics of the Victorian era but with a twist—adding gears, clockwork, and other mechanical elements to create a historical and futuristic look. Music for Steampunk Goths may include industrial, dark cabaret, or neoclassical genres, complementing their love for blending the old with the new. The Steampunk Goth aesthetic is all about imagination, innovation, and a passion for the fantastical. Industrial Goth is a subgenre that merges the dark aesthetics of Goth with the harsh, mechanical sounds of industrial music. This type of Goth is known for its edgy, practical fashion, often including black leather, combat boots, harnesses, and metal accessories. Industrial Goths embrace a dystopian, post-apocalyptic look, reflecting the themes of power, control, and resistance prevalent in industrial music. The music associated with Industrial Goths is intense and often features heavy electronic instruments, distorted vocals, and aggressive beats. Bands like Nine Inch Nails, Ministry, and Skinny Puppy are staples within the Industrial Goth scene. The lyrics often explore themes of alienation, technology, and societal decay, resonating with those disillusioned with the modern world.