MOOD

Before we even begin explaining this trend, know that Dark Surrealism is not entirely about death and goth! It’s a mix of random objects that are antiquated, spooky and appear out of place and surreal. A great example of this is a cabinet-turned-coffin by William Warren that “lasts a lifetime”. You actually use the furniture piece as a table, and when you pass on, could be buried in it. Other items that are in tune to the dark side include spooky dolls. Another interesting take is taxidermy, which has been a cutting edge theme seen in bars and emerging restaurants in New York City and around the globe. Store design has incorporated elephant skulls and anatomy references. Polly Morgan is a name that keep popping up in taxidermy circles, as she takes the concept of animals in their natural environment and displays them in everyday objects. For example a rat is placed in a wine glass. In simpler forms Dark Surrealism is felt in home decor like ornate containers adorned with skulls.

FASHION

There are very broad fashion applications that can incorporate this theme. For starters, print spreads involving taxidermy scapes are prevalent and include animals lurking in the background. Photo shoots are picking up on this theme and have been staged at the Natural History Museum. Lighting and home furnishing props help to illustrate. Some products take Dark Surrealism a bit more literally, for example black shoes with paint running down the side. Jewelry is another natural application, with designs including birds legs and beaks dipped in gold. Ultimately tee shirt graphics are the easiest interpretation. But don’t be fooled, this is not about skulls and crossbones, it’s a bit deeper and includes some gothic and historical references. Surreal environments may involve animals combined with human skulls and objects such as clocks and gears. Keep in mind to portray a strong antiquated sense. For men’s fashion, this means gothic and for ladies and girls it is skewed to look dark Victorian.