Gothic Fashion - Variation and cross-influences

The simplicity of the style lends itself to variation, and is often combined with elements of other styles (typically BDSM fashion). Various piercings and/or tattoos are not uncommon (though this is primarily a 1990s addition to gothic fashion), and both males and females may wear elaborate makeup. Hair is often dyed blue-black, and sometimes backcombed to give it a large, ratty appearance. There are a few similarities between goth fashion and the more masculine black metal fashion, which can make it difficult for someone unfamiliar with either fashion to discern the subculture of the individual. Like the punk subculture out of which it grew, early goth fashion had a strong emphasis on the DIY ethic.