Steampunk 101 at NY Comic Con

The elite of this country's Steampunk movement joined together for a panel at last weekend's NY Comic Con.  Writer G. D. Falksen led the discussion on how the culture originated as a literary one.  Jules Verne was an early inspiration to the movement.  Steampunk has now spread to music and fashion.  

While Goth is sometimes interpreted as dark and spooky to outsiders, Steampunk often gets an easier rep of being optimistic and fascinating.  It was explained as science fiction mixed with the time period before WWI back to Victorian times.  

The aesthetic is elegant and diverse.  One of the designers on the panel considered herself a Goth, but explored the time periods and science of multiple cultures for her Steampunk fashion designs.  The Steampunk "Boba Fett" was a terrific example of taking a modern pop icon and reinventing it as one's own character.  Outside in the NY Comic Con grounds, a Steampunk Iron Man also roamed the floors (winning Marvel's best costume contest).

Comic-Con Photos by Mariana Leung.  Iron Man photo by Judy Stephens

Lolita, Steampunk and Victorian How-To's - Rebecca Brooks

Let me introduce you to one of my favorite new bloggers. Perfect for designers, DIY crafters and all manner of Gothic fashionistas, Steampunk and Lolita enthusiasts. Rebecca Brooks of Victorian Nonsense creates a lovely website filled with classic inspiration of Victorian Times. She not only shows her muses, but then creates crafts with detailed descriptions and photographs so you can follow along. Rebecca also gives great resources, like Katherine's Dress site, containing a wealth of antique patterns for those who need a proper period corset or crinoline.

Steampunk Patterns On Sale for $4.99 - Monday/Tuesday

Ok, you would never think to go to old timer Butterick Patterns for your Steampunk or Goth needs, but they are now issuing vintage and classically tailored patterns in recognition of different wardrobe genres. Today and tomorrow, they are putting ALL of their patterns on sale for $4.99 (usually up to $25). This includes the corsets, gloves, wrist bracers and gowns that crafty DIY types like you can create for your ultimate ensemble.