Dark Mori is a substyle of the Mori Kei fashion, which centers around a dark, mysterious version of the forest-dwelling aesthetic. While Mori Kei typically emphasizes natural, earthy tones and a fairy-tale-like innocence, Dark Mori introduces a shadowy, gothic twist to the look. This style combines the whimsical elements of nature with the macabre, creating an aesthetic that is both ethereal and eerie.
The Dark Mori Aesthetic
The Dark Mori aesthetic retains the layered, flowy silhouettes characteristic of Mori Kei but with a darker palette and more somber, mysterious undertones. It’s a style that evokes images of haunted forests, forgotten fairy tales, and mysterious woodland creatures. The look is deeply inspired by nature but is tinged with elements of the gothic and the occult, resulting in a unique fusion of light and dark, softness and edge.
Key Characteristics
Dark, Natural Palette: Unlike the typical Mori Kei style, which uses soft, earthy colors, Dark Mori leans towards a palette of deep greens, blacks, browns, and grays. Occasional touches of muted reds or purples may be added to the mix, enhancing the gothic vibe.
Layered Clothing: Just like in Mori Kei, layering is a key element of Dark Mori. Think long, flowing skirts, oversized cardigans, shawls, and cloaks. The difference lies in the choice of darker colors and heavier, more textured fabrics like wool, velvet, and lace.
Nature-Inspired Accessories: Accessories in Dark Mori are often inspired by the forest and nature but with a darker twist. Antler headbands, bone jewelry, and charms made from natural materials like wood, feathers, or stones are common. These pieces add a mystical, otherworldly feel to the look.
Mysterious and Macabre Elements: Incorporating gothic motifs such as skulls, crosses, or occult symbols is common in Dark Mori. These elements blend with the nature-inspired aspects to create a look that is both enchanting and eerie.
How to Embrace the Dark Mori Style
Wardrobe Essentials
- Long, Flowing Skirts: Choose skirts in dark, earthy tones and layer them with petticoats or leggings for added depth and texture.
- Oversized Cardigans and Sweaters: Opt for thick, knitted cardigans or sweaters in black, gray, or deep green. The more oversized and cozy, the better.
- Lace and Velvet: Incorporate these fabrics into your outfits through dresses, shawls, or blouses. They add a touch of gothic elegance to the look.
- Capes and Cloaks: A staple of the Dark Mori wardrobe, these pieces should be in dark, rich fabrics. They evoke the image of a forest-dwelling witch or a mysterious wanderer.
Makeup Tips
- Pale, Natural Base: Start with a foundation that gives you a pale, natural look. You want your skin to appear almost ethereal, like a creature of the forest.
- Dark Eyes: Use deep, earthy tones like browns, grays, and forest greens to create a smoky eye. Add a touch of dark eyeliner to enhance the mysterious effect.
- Natural Brows: Keep your brows looking natural and slightly untamed, reflecting the wildness of the Dark Mori aesthetic.
- Soft Lips: Opt for muted, natural lip colors like deep berries, browns, or mauves. The idea is to keep the lips looking soft yet slightly darkened.
Why Dark Mori Might Be for You
If you are drawn to the ethereal beauty of nature but also have a fascination with the dark and mysterious, Dark Mori could be the perfect style for you. It allows you to express a deep connection with the natural world while embracing a gothic, enchanted aesthetic.
You Might Be a Dark Mori If:
- You love the forest and find beauty in both its light and dark sides.
- You enjoy layering clothes and experimenting with textures and fabrics.
- Your wardrobe consists of deep, earthy colors and natural, handmade accessories.
- You appreciate the blending of gothic motifs with nature-inspired elements.
Dark Mori is about finding beauty in the shadows of the forest, embracing the mystical and the macabre, and creating a style that is as hauntingly beautiful as it is deeply connected to nature.