Steampunk?
You’ve heard the term steampunk; So what the heck is it? Simply put, a mixture of new and old in a unique way.
Many believe the concept started in the early 1900s with the invention of the steam engine. By using bits and pieces of the technology advances, new pieces were formed by tearing the technology apart and putting it back together in a different way (with inspiration from the Victorian era). Some think steampunk artists are fighting technology, and many view them as a rebel.
Is it historic and romantic, is it futuristic and technological, or is a little of both? This style combines the elements of multiple periods of evolution into each unique piece. Steampunk is very much like we are as people. We try to maintain the old ways which were good, and we try to add new ideas.
Steampunk Fashion
Adding steampunk to your style can include smaller pieces such as a steampunk pocketbook or purse, funky boots, a jewelry piece or two.
Where would one wear a complete steampunked ensemble? Steampunk styles might be fun for an evening out on the town with your friends. Play up that style and personality by combining steampunk clothing piece with jewelry and accessories, footwear, and hair and makeup.
Steampunk fashion and jewelry have a way of opening up conversations with new people. That great elaborate watch, necklace, or brooch can be a fantastic conversation starter anywhere you go. While you may not get people who don’t really understand what you are wearing, you’ll be certain to have a few stop and ask questions.
Steampunk Decor
Steampunk may also be contributing to a movement to remake old stuff in a new way. Repurposing is a growing trend, and some can find its roots in the steampunk movement. The word steampunk was added to the Oxford Dictionary in 2010, which coincides with the rise in the repurposing movement.
Adding a steampunk trunk, or other steampunk inspired materials into your home décor can give it that feeling of timelessness. Steampunking has reignited a love of older materials such as brass and copper. A wide range of steampunk products can be found on eBay, Etsy, Pinterest, and other sites that feature more than generic new in the box mass produced products.
Just Steampunk It!
Steampunk can be used for fun, a protest of supposed advancement of humanity, or just because you like it. There’s something steampunk for everyone. Try adding a piece or two to your fashion or home. At the very least you’ll add an interesting item to your collection, at most you’ll fall in love with all that Steampunk has to offer.
I have to confess, Robin, I’m so publishing-world centric, I thought this would be about steampunk fiction! Lol. Which is hot right now.
Love the fashions. Must have the boots!
Yep, steampunk roots actually to the fiction genre. I have not read any books of the genre, but can see the allure. Will add this to a future read list.
This was fascinating and I love the pictures, especially the jewellery, it has put my creative mind into overdrive.
Thanks for commenting, and glad the creative juices are flowing.
I really enjoyed this and the jewelry and loved the authenticity of your products.
Thanks for the kind words, and glad you enjoyed the article.
I’ve never considered steampunk pieces for home decorations, what a cool idea! Steampunk designs are so intricate and fascinating. I’m a little obsessed with Victorian/Edwardian fashion, so the steampunk twist has always intrigued me. Fun read!
Some of the steampunk decor is so awesome! My favorite are the light fixtures made of many things, and the car engine tables are cool!
Steampunk and renaissance are awesome. What an amazing era to have lived in and the fact that it’s still ok to dress like that now and that there are so many events for folk who love to play dress up.
Love the concept of “play dress up”! What fun it would be to have a steampunk party!
I really did not know what steampunk meant – but it sounds like as far as fashion goes, it is part of my style. I have boots like that too! And repurposing is something I love!
Thanks for the comment. Fun that you liked something, and didn’t even realize thus:)
This could have some fun applications for kitchen decor. Mixing old and new could certainly add a lot of character to your living space!
I totally agree! Love me an old steampunk light fixture!
I love steampunk fiction and as a boy used to play a lot of steampunk role-play games. The books often had really great illustrations and pictures. I’d decorate my house like it if I could get my wife to agree. Never thought of dressing that way.
Fun that you remember the steampunk role play games. Maybe the wife would allow one pieces??
I love the steampunk look, particularly in accessories. Not so much interior decor.
Glad you like the accessories; it is fun to have just a little different look.
What I love most about Steampunk is exactly what you said here: “Steampunk may also be contributing to a movement to remake old stuff in a new way. Repurposing is a growing trend, and some can find its roots in the steampunk movement. ” I love how the repurposing movement is gaining ‘steam’ and really appreciate that some of its roots comes from this period or time. Thanks for sharing the history too, Robin! Fun!
What a great point! I also love that repurposing is a growing trend. Love that we can something old and use it in a new way!
This is such a terrific movement. I love the idea of repurposing..making art and fashion from another era. And yes it does look futuristic too. Fun!
Thanks for the kind words! It is such an interesting movement, and i love it when not too extreme.
I have not heard of steampunk before I read your post Robin….I do love the fashion look with those boots though 🙂 Thanks for explaining what it’s all about…Great share!
Thanks for the kind words. Glad you learned something.
This is so inspiring. Makes me want to be 17 again when I was a “wild child.” I love your design esthetic.
Thanks for the wonderful words. I think this style brings out the 17 in all of us.
I have friends who love to cosplay Steampunk characters. They have a lot of fun with it going to conventions.
That would be fun. I have thought of writing a blog on Cosplay – so many folks don’t know what it is. Thanks for stopping by.
Steampunk is definitely a new rage, but not for everyone… I find some of the stuff to be cute, but not always my style. I love those boots too!
I like the more subdued steampunk – a little dab will do it. I think a little dab of the decor is fun as well.
I was introduced to steampunk when I was scrapping. I love the look when I see it, but can’t seem to pull it off myself..in my scrapbooks or in my style.
It is a unique look – and I have better luck if I just stick with one piece.
Not my particular style, but I love the creativity in mixing the old into a new look. Fashion can be predictable and boring and it’s great to have a fresh new look come in. Thanks for sharing its history and style.
Thanks for the kind words. Love your comment about predictable and boring, and think that is such a good point.
That’s a new one for me! Steampunk. Hmmmmm. I can definitely see doing this with jewelry. The boots picture you have is badass! I always learn new stuff from you. Love it!
Thanks for the kind words, and happy to share. And those boots seem to be a love of all!
I have never heard of steampunk Robin and, judging by the images in the post, this is not my style. I’m not sure that I am a fan of re-purposing, although I do like to use things outside of their original intent. Thanks and have a great day!
Thanks for the comments, and steampunk style is not for everyone. As for me, a little dab will do it.
I love this look – I am always gravitating towards original ANYTHING!
You sound like me:)
Wow I did not know this piece of history about this style or movement, very interesting…and I like this style.
It is a unique style – you either love it or not. Glad you like it.
This is what I like about your blog. Every time I come, I read about something new and informative. I spent my life growing in Manila. Therefore, I was just following the trend and did not even know much about these different styles you are presenting. It is like connecting the dots now. I love it.
It is fun to get out of our comfort zones and routines. Thanks for the kind words.