Founded in 2006, Punkrave has rapidly become a standout name in the world of gothic fashion. Known for its bold and intricate designs, the brand blends gothic aesthetics with elements of punk, steampunk, and visual kei. Punkrave’s creations are not just about style; they are about embodying a lifestyle that mixes the old with the new, the dark with the fantastical. Their collection ranges from skin-tight leggings to flowing gothic coats, creating an expansive and versatile wardrobe for those who embrace the alternative style.
The brand’s creator, Judy, has been designing in this unique style long before Punkrave’s official establishment. When asked about the origins of the brand’s name, Judy explained that it represents the duality of the designs. “Punk is about being simple, direct, and rebellious, much like the spirit of punk itself. Rave, on the other hand, symbolizes peace, love, unity, and respect—the mindset I want to convey with our designs.”
The creative process behind Punkrave’s clothing involves a collaborative team effort. “I start with conceptual drawings, and then the other designers follow the directions I’ve laid out. We work together as a team, and I don’t see myself as separate from the others,” Judy said. The result is a collection that resonates with many, particularly the brand’s gothic coats and trousers, which are among their most popular items. Judy enjoys designing pants and skirts, as they offer more room for creativity. “I love the freedom of designing for the lower half of the body, and these pieces tend to be more popular,” she said.
A major highlight in the brand’s evolution was the introduction of steampunk-inspired designs in 2016. Unlike typical steampunk aesthetics, which often rely on brown hues and brass accents, Punkrave’s take on steampunk is meticulously detailed and infused with science and magic. One of the brand’s standout steampunk pieces includes lace cuffs with aged brown leather straps, accessorized with vintage bullets. These cuffs are versatile enough to be worn as a waist cincher, showing the multifunctional aspect that many Punkrave designs feature.
Punkrave’s clothing blends elements from various fashion styles, but Judy identifies three key influences in her designs: gothic, punk, and lolita. “Punkrave is all about embracing these different spirits. The gothic spirit is about loving black because it represents life itself. The punk spirit is about being unapologetically yourself, no matter what others think. The lolita spirit is about creating your own fantasy,” she explained. Judy encourages wearers of Punkrave clothing to find their personal connection to these elements and make them their own.
Another feature of Punkrave’s designs is their androgynous appeal. While the brand does not specifically design for one gender over another, many of their pieces are unisex. Judy sees this as an important element of alternative fashion. “It’s important to dress according to your own style, not to fit into traditional gender norms. Many of our pieces are available in both men’s and women’s sizes, and in the future, we plan to explore cyberpunk designs,” she shared.
When asked about her personal gothic icon, Judy did not hesitate to mention Marilyn Manson. “His style is expressive, controversial, and truly inspirational for me as a designer,” she said. She also expressed a desire to design clothes for people who appreciate the passion and creativity behind Punkrave’s work. “I love the idea of designing for people who genuinely connect with the clothes, whether it’s for a special occasion or just for everyday wear,” she explained.
Punkrave’s dedication to creating designs with soul and purpose reflects Judy’s passion for fashion. The brand’s continued success is a testament to its ability to balance artistic expression with a wearable, accessible aesthetic, all while staying true to its punk and gothic roots.
