Gift Ideas for Alternative Fashion Lovers

Typically, fashion for the Christmas season is either all about sparkly dresses for the inevitable run of Christmas parties or big wooly jumpers for mince pies with your nan. But spare a thought for those alternative types among us for whom sequins and glitter are about as alien as death metal is to your aunty Sue. If you have a Gothic type or alternative fashion fan among your nearest and dearest, then look no further for some easy gift ideas that are sure to hit the mark this Christmas.

For him

EMP Signature Collection Iron Maiden Sneakers

Everyone needs a good pair of Converse or sneakers. In fact, the more the merrier. If you know someone who basically lives in their Converse, check out our EMP exclusive sneakers with designs from loads of metal bands and TV series. These Iron Maiden sneakers have a grungy feel thanks to their graffiti-style design and are perfect for fans of the band. They’re basically a must have at gigs or festivals too.

Devil’s Plaything Boxers

I know, I know. You don’t want to be that person who always gives underwear and socks. But hear me out. There’s a good reason why pants and socks make great gifts – they’re on budget, everyone needs them, and most guys never remember to buy them for themselves. But forget tighty-whities and embarrassing ‘comedy’ prints. Instead at least amplify the cool factor with these skull and rockhand designs from EMP’s Black Premium label. This set offers three different designs made from comfy and fresh cotton. All black too, of course. If you have to give pants, at least give cool pants.

Sound Check Denim Jacket

Denim jackets are a wardrobe staple, and for good reason. This design from RED by EMP won’t just keep you warm but also looks really cool. The black denim jacket also has a detachable sweater hood which is ideal for the colder months and can be removed for warmer days. See, versatile! The slightly faded wash is really on trend, too. A simple black jacket is always a safe bet as a gift as it’s pretty guaranteed to match well with the recipient’s existing wardrobe and style, and can be worn for years to come.

Black Sabbath Tour T-shirt

If in doubt, a T-shirt is a fail-safe option. And this Black Sabbath Tour T-shirt from EMP’s Signature Collection is a great example of T-shirt that’s unique, stylish and perfect for an alternative look. It’s a well-known fact that throwing on a rock or metal band T-shirt gives instant edge to any outfit, even if you don’t actually listen to the band in question (Ramones, anyone?)… Of course this tee is ideal for fans of the classic band, but its vintage look is definitely in style in any case and will really elevate a casual outfit, especially with jeans and heavy-duty black boots.

Silver Thor’s Hammer Ring

When it comes to jewellery and accessories for men, it can be a bit tricky to know what’s going to be well received. For some inspiration, check out the range by cult brand etNox, who have loads of seriously cool and individual pieces to choose from. In general, think Celtic, Nordic or Gothic. This Silver Thor’s Hammer Ring is a really chunky and weighty ring with runic carvings around the edge and a Norse design. Everyone needs something extra to add interest to their outfit, and a couple of unique pieces of jewellery are a must-have for any alternative fashion lover.

Vanish Hood Hooded Sweater

It’s winter, after all, so it definitely makes sense to gift warm and cosy items rather than clothing that will have to wait until summer. But for those who wouldn’t be seen dead in a knitted jumper, a casual hoodie is a great choice. This Vanish Hood Hooded Sweater isn’t your typical boring hoodie though. Of course it’s black, with ribbed detailing on the cuffs. But it also has a cool little feature that makes it a bit more interesting, in the form of a pull-up collar with a skull print, that can keep your face warm as well as making you look pretty spooky. It also has generously-sized kangaroo pockets as you’d expect from any good hoodie.

For her

Ruah Vered Necklace

For a lower-budget gift or a little something extra, Gothic-inspired jewellery is the perfect finishing touch to any alternative look. To find the perfect piece, look no further than the Alchemy Gothic collection at EMP, where there are simply dozens of stunning pieces at surprisingly cheap prices. Just one gorgeous example is this Ruah Vered Necklace which features a thorny black rose entwined through a Gothic-style star shape. The matching earrings are also available if you want to make a full set. This necklace is sure to look perfect when combined with pretty much any black top or dress.

Bone Leggings

These Bone Leggings from Fashion Victim are both fun and flattering. A healthy dose of skulls and bones belongs in any Goth-girl or alternative chick’s wardrobe, and I feel that these quirky leggings strike the right balance and will pair really well with a long top and boots. Whether at a gig or just as a statement piece, these leggings are super versatile and useful too.

Don’t Know Where To Go T-shirt

When alternative meets Disney. Know an alternative girl who’s also into Disney? Why not combine the two with this adorable yet suitably dark Alice t-shirt? Alice has always had her darker side (did anyone else play American McGee’s delightfully twisted Alice in Wonderland game back in the day?), and this t-shirt captures that with this Gothic print and insightful quote: “If you don’t know where you want to go then it doesn’t matter which path you take.” This addition to an outfit pairs much better with black boots and Gothic accessories than with twee headbands and patent pumps.

Angel City Cardigan

For anyone who likes their clothes both dark and stylish, EMP’s very own brand Black Premium should be your go-to for creating cool looks for either gigs and festivals or everyday wear. At this cold time of year, a practical and cosy cardigan certainly make a great gift, and this Angel City Cardigan has the added bonus of looking pretty cool as well as being comfy and warm. The subtle all-over skulls and flowers print and the black lace segment at the top elevate this cardigan from practical to really eye-catching.

Destroyed Knitted Sweater

Know someone who thinks jumpers are boring or just for old people? Prove them wrong with this seriously cool Destroyed Knitted Sweater by alternative brand forplay. The jumper has a flatteringly fitted shape and a completely destroyed look. Of course your grandma is going to be desperately trying to mend it, so probably save it for the next night out or event. A jumper is a must for the winter season, but there’s no reason it can’t have a bit of a rock n’ roll attitude.

If you didn’t find anything you like then never fear! We have over 20,000 products in the EMP store, so why not browse through our alternative clothing for women or men, or check out our gift finder to find the perfect present!