On the Witchy Aesthetic: Welcome!

I’ve heard a lot of complaints over the past few years about the “witchy aesthetic,” and I’m here to do one thing: discourage all the gatekeeping.

So freaking what if someone just thinks it’s cool to wear moons on their clothes because it makes them feel badass? If they aren’t appropriating from a specific culture or practice, and they’ve found a look that makes them feel at home… they should do the thing.

Paganism and witchcraft aren’t large organized religions (even though we do contain some more specific, ordered groups). There is no knowledge test you have to pass to feel a kinship with a goddess you dreamed of, or because you’re seeking ritualistic ways to maintain contact with beloved deceased ancestors. While I am certainly a purveyor of public disclosure gear like my “Frequent Flyer” shirt, I wouldn’t have a problem with someone wearing it just because they think it’s cool.

Witchy Aesthetic Derided: Sexism is the Root of Much Gatekeeping

In many instances, sexism is at the root of gatekeeping. While misogyny can be internalized, anyone benefiting from a specific power structure can use gatekeeping as a means to keep people out of a community. Even a casual comment over on Facebook or Twitter can reflect this — in witchcraft communities or any other type of community that has an associated aesthetic.

In a time when people are losing the battle for their own rights, I’m suspicious of aesthetic gatekeeping (when it doesn’t involve appropriation, which *is* an instance in which someone should gatekeep). The intention and outcome of undermining someone who chooses clothing as a means of empowerment — especially in a society that limits their personal sovereignty and access to basic human needs — is cruel.

And I created this space because I’m over it. I’m done being “nice.” I’m through with taking critiques on stories and ritual practices and appearance that have nothing to do with the quality of those things and everything to do with putting myself — and others — down.

This is a place of personal sovereignty. If you’re making fashion choices for the witchy aesthetic, for ritual reasons, or to wear the clothes outside or on social media so you can find others to connect with, I hope you feel empowered and I will support you.

While my practices aren’t a costume and while they are unique to me and others might feel differently, please be yourself. It’s time, after all. This is the month for it.