Synopsis
Some Wear Leather, Some Wear Lace: The Worldwide Compendium of Postpunk and Goth in the 1980s by Andi Harriman is an in-depth exploration of the cultural and musical movements that shaped the postpunk and goth subcultures during the 1980s. Drawing from a vast array of sources, Harriman provides a comprehensive account of how these two genres emerged from the ashes of punk rock, combining elements of dark, atmospheric sounds, fashion, and ideology that resonated with disillusioned youth across the globe. The book examines the social and political contexts that influenced the development of postpunk and goth, highlighting the ways in which the music and fashion acted as both a form of resistance and self-expression during a time of uncertainty.
The narrative is enriched with interviews, archival materials, and detailed analysis, offering a wide-ranging perspective on the global reach of these subcultures. Harriman delves into the diverse bands and musicians that contributed to the scene, including pioneers like Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Cure, and Joy Division, among others. The book doesn’t just focus on the music, but also delves into the fashion, ideology, and the underground spaces where the communities thrived. It highlights how goth fashion, which often included elements of Victorian, punk, and fetish styles, became a powerful visual statement that helped define the movement.
One of the key themes of the book is the international appeal of postpunk and goth, emphasizing how the movement transcended borders and influenced youth cultures in places as diverse as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and beyond. Through a combination of detailed anecdotes, historical context, and cultural analysis, Harriman explores how these subcultures not only shaped music history but also created spaces for belonging and expression for individuals who felt marginalized or alienated by mainstream society. The book is both a tribute to and a critical examination of the postpunk and goth scenes, offering a comprehensive and multidimensional view of their enduring influence.