Killstar, a UK-based fashion brand founded in 2010, has carved out a distinctive space in the world of alternative fashion. Known for its edgy designs that blend dark aesthetics with humor and a touch of sex appeal, the brand has been embraced by those who love to stand out and embrace the shadows. With pieces that exude confidence and unapologetic rebellion, Killstar has become a go-to label for anyone wanting to add a little edge to their wardrobe. As co-founder Tequila Star puts it, the brand is “a web carefully spun from dreams, hard work, and the forever-long love of and fascination with the occult.”
The inspiration for Killstar’s creation stems from Tequila’s own struggles to find the kind of clothing she wanted. “I used to dream of wearing all kinds of cool clothes, but couldn’t find anything that matched my style,” she explains. “The prints weren’t bold enough, and the dresses weren’t witchy enough.” This frustration led Tequila to design her own clothing, and Killstar was born from this need for something more daring and witch-inspired. From pentagram crop tops to Ouija board tunics, the brand’s designs draw heavily from occult symbolism, reflecting Tequila’s lifelong fascination with the dark arts and the mysterious allure of the night. “I always found comfort in the night, the full moon, and the knowledge that there are other witches out there. We are all connected by an invisible bond,” she shares.
Before starting Killstar, Tequila already had experience in the dark fashion world. She and her team launched HELLFIRE, a dark alternative clothing store in Glasgow, in 1999. This background in the industry gave her the expertise to take Killstar in a bold new direction—one that embraces rebellion and challenges the norms of goth fashion. With sleek, comfortable silhouettes and prints featuring bold, in-your-face slogans like “So Goth I’m Dead” and “I Put The Fun In Funeral,” Killstar isn’t about hiding in the shadows. Instead, it proudly shouts from the rooftops, making goth fashion fresh, fun, and fearless.
Killstar’s designs are unapologetically rebellious, blending gothic and punk influences with a modern, comfortable twist. Gone are the restrictive corsets of old; in their place are airy summer goth styles that allow wearers to express themselves without sacrificing comfort. The brand started with T-shirts and sweaters but has since expanded its offerings, with notable pieces like the Addams Crop Top (perfect for fans of Wednesday Addams), the Huntress Fringe Dress, and the Ouija Mini Skirt. Tequila herself admits a special love for the brand’s hooded pieces. “I love anything with a big hood; it lets me hide away in my own dark bubble,” she says.
But Killstar isn’t just about clothing. The brand has also expanded into jewelry, with mystical symbols and quartz crystals, as well as lifestyle products like candles and spirit boards. With these items, Killstar is slowly but surely becoming a way of life for those who embrace its unique, dark aesthetic.
Looking ahead, Tequila hints at exciting things to come for Killstar. “I seriously can’t sleep at night thinking about it all,” she admits, teasing the introduction of footwear to the brand’s collection. “It’s a dream come true! But the rest, I’ll keep under wraps for now—watch this space!”
Killstar is more than just a brand; it’s a statement. With its bold designs, rebellious spirit, and strong ties to the occult, it’s a fashion label for those who aren’t afraid to stand out and embrace their dark side.
