Saturday 31 October 2015

Why Can't Ghosts Let Go Of The Victorian Era?

image credit Library of Congress

When you search for ghost costumes online, you'll find three major categories. The first is a simple white, flowing gown-type costume. The second is pop-culture ghosts, whether they're the murderer from the Scream movies, Slimer from Ghostbusters, or a bold-striped Beetlejuice suit.

But the third, the Victorian Ghost, is more peculiar. It's ornate and complex, but not pegged to any particular horror franchise or touchstone ghost. Why does formal Victorian wear, like corsets and lace, read as 'ghostly' to us?

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