Hey there, my spooky-chic friend. If you‘re reading this, I guess we share a dark secret: an obsession with all things gothic fashion. And when it comes to serving up the most deliciously witchy, punk rock looks, no one does it quite like Killstar.
As a long-time Killstar lover myself, I‘m excited to take you on an in-depth tour of this iconic brand. From my honest thoughts on their bestselling pieces to VIP perks, customer reviews, and styling tips, consider this your ultimate guide to the Killstar universe.
But first, let‘s start with the basics. What exactly is Killstar, and why has it cast such a spell on alternative fashion fiends worldwide?
Getting to Know Killstar
Killstar is a UK-based clothing and lifestyle brand that has been bringing a darker edge to fashion since 2010. With a focus on "outfitting the freaks, goths, and misfits of the world," Killstar has amassed a cult following for their selection of clothes, shoes, and accessories that blend witchy, grunge, and punk rock elements.
While the brand originally catered to women, Killstar now offers a full range of unisex and menswear items as well. Beyond just apparel, you can also deck out your home with Killstar‘s collection of dark decor and gifts. Talk about a one-stop shop for living your best goth life!
Scrolling through their website or Instagram (which boasts over 1.8 million followers, by the way), you‘ll find everything from sexy lace-up dresses and pentagram purses to skeleton print sweaters and spiked combat boots. And with a size range that goes from XS to 4XL, Killstar is clearly committed to outfitting ALL dark-side babes.
According to SimilarWeb data, killstar.com racks up over 1 million monthly visits, 71% of which come from search. The top countries visiting the site are the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany. This global appeal has also helped Killstar gain attention from fashion media giants like HuffPost, InStyle, and Nylon Magazine.
So, is Killstar worth the hype? I‘ve rounded up all the key info you need to decide if this brand deserves a spot in your closet, from my personal product reviews to decoding the size chart. Pour yourself a steaming mug of tea (or a blood-red cocktail 🧛♀️), and let‘s dive in.
The Pros and Cons of Killstar
The Good
✔️ Unique, edgy designs you won‘t find anywhere else
✔️ Wide range of products for a head-to-toe gothic look
✔️ Inclusive sizing from XS-4XL
✔️ Cruelty-free "leather" options for vegan goths
✔️ Killer sales and VIP rewards program
✔️ Fun social media presence and online community
The Not-So-Good
❌ Price point is steep for some pieces
❌ Inconsistent sizing and quality, according to some reviews
❌ Shipping can be slow and expensive depending on location
❌ Infrequent restocks on popular items
❌ Lacks detailed info on sustainability and ethical practices
My Killstar Must-Haves
Take it from a ghoul who‘s tried it all: there are some Killstar items that are simply to die for. If you‘re building a capsule wardrobe of dark fashion essentials, here are my top recommendations.
Calling All Vamp Vixens 🦇
Want to unleash your inner vampire seductress? Do NOT sleep on Killstar dresses. I am completely obsessed with the Bloodlust Velvet Maxi Dress ($83). The rich burgundy color, lace-up bodice, and thigh-high slit are giving me Victorian vampire vibes in all the right ways. Plus, the stretchy velvet material is both sexy and comfy enough for those nights stalking your prey…I mean, hitting the club. Just note that this dress is extremely fitted and runs small, so definitely size up.
For a slightly more casual look that still shows off your goth sensibilities, the Bad Vibes Strappy Dress ($74) is another top pick. This 95% cotton mini features a super flattering square neckline, tie-front bust, and spaghetti straps adorned with silver hardware reading "bad vibes." Throw on a leather jacket and some fishnets, and you‘ve got yourself a fit.
Wicked Outerwear 🧥
A great coat or jacket is clutch for pulling together any outfit, and Killstar‘s options do not disappoint. If you‘re ready to invest in a statement piece, feast your eyes on the Dark Prince Brocade Coat ($190). This double-breasted, mid-length jacket is crafted from a heavy cotton-poly brocade and features elaborate embroidery, velvet details, and tasseled rope fastenings. The only downside? You might get mistaken for actual royalty.
On the (slightly) more practical side, a moto jacket is a staple every girl needs in her closet. Killstar‘s Hell Bunny Biker Jacket ($125) puts a vegan-friendly twist on the classic silhouette with a belted waist, zip pockets, and a removable hood. It does run a bit large and long in the arms though, so keep that in mind when selecting your size.
Accessorize Your Dark Side 🖤
Now, what‘s an outfit without the right accessories? Killstar has a huge selection of jewelry, bags, hats, and more to give your look that extra spooky something. I never leave the house without my Draco Shoulder Bag ($55), a crescent-shaped vegan leather purse with silver stud and chain details. It‘s the perfect size for carrying all your witchy essentials, from tarot cards to lip gloss.
If you‘re more of a backpack babe, the Hellish Faux Leather Backpack ($80) is spacious enough to hold your laptop, textbooks, or grimoire, and the all-over moon print adds a witchy touch. Just be warned that the vegan leather does have a strong chemical smell at first. Personally, I think it‘s worth it for a bag that looks this cool and keeps my hands free for casting spells…or shopping.
Size and Fit: Confessions of a Killstar Addict
As a curvy size 12/14, I know firsthand how tricky alternative fashion sizing can be. The struggle to find pieces that fit my bust and hips without drowning the rest of my frame is real. With Killstar, I‘ve found that some items are stretchier/more generously cut than others, so it really depends on the piece.
My general advice? ALWAYS check the size chart and read reviews before ordering. Killstar lists garment measurements for each size, which is super helpful for comparing to your own favourite pieces. For fitted styles, I usually go one size up from my typical size for a more comfortable fit.
Another thing to note is that the brand‘s 3X/4X sizes are closer to a US 16/18, which may be too small for some plus size babes. Hopefully Killstar expands their size range even further in the future. In the meantime, don‘t be afraid to rock some of their oversized tees and sweatshirts for a cute borrowed-from-the-boys look!
Customer Reviews: The Good, The Bad, and The Spooky
So, what do other gothic shoppers have to say about their Killstar hauls? I scoured the web for the most helpful customer reviews, and here‘s the tea:
"I am LIVING for the Luna Mortis lace top. The bell sleeves are everything, the lace is stretchy and soft, and the velvet details are so luxe. Paired with a black bra and the Eternal Eclipse maxi skirt, I felt like a total gothic goddess. Worth every penny!" – Raven D.
"I was so excited to receive the Cauldron sweater dress, but the quality really let me down, especially for the price. The knit fabric was much thinner than expected, and it snagged after just one wear. Bummed because the print is so cute!" – Lydia S.
"Obsessed with my Pagan round blanket! It‘s the perfect weight and so soft. I love to wear it as a shawl or use it as a tapestry on my wall. Highly recommend if you want to add some witchy vibes to your space." – Salem K.
Based on the overall ratings, it seems like most customers are thrilled with Killstar‘s unique designs and darker aesthetic. Some common praises include:
- High quality materials, especially for dresses, skirts, and outerwear
- Comfortable, stretchy fabrics
- Inclusive sizing
- Fast shipping and easy returns
- Unique items you can‘t find in mainstream stores
However, the biggest complaints seem to revolve around:
- Inconsistent sizing between items/categories
- Quality doesn‘t always match the higher price point
- Some items are final sale (no returns)
- Customer service can be slow to respond
The takeaway? It might be wise to start with a small order of Killstar‘s most raved about pieces before going on a full blown shopping spree. That way, you can test out the sizing and quality for yourself.
How Killstar Stacks Up to Other Gothic Brands
If you‘re trying to decide whether to pledge your allegiance (and wallet) to Killstar, you might be curious how they compare to other popular alternative fashion brands. Here‘s my take:
Compared to Hot Topic or Dolls Kill, I‘ve found that Killstar pieces are higher quality and have more unique designs you won‘t see everywhere else. They definitely lean more towards the occult and witchy side of goth, as opposed to just band tees and fishnets.
Price-wise, Killstar is a step up from fast fashion but still relatively affordable compared to high-end luxury goth (think: Rick Owens, Gareth Pugh). Most dresses and tops fall in the $50-$100 range, with coats and shoes creeping closer to $200+.
For size inclusivity and range, Killstar gets major points. Similar brands like BlackCraft Cult and Punk Rave tend to max out at a 2X or 3X, while Killstar goes up to a 4X in many items. They also have a lot more variety beyond just graphic tees and leggings.
One area I think Killstar could improve on is transparency around their manufacturing and sustainability efforts. Brands like The Pretty Cult are very open about their ethical production and eco-friendly practices. In 2022, more and more shoppers want to know that their fashion habit isn‘t harming people or the planet. Killstar has some vegan products, which is great, but I would love to see even more information and initiatives around these important issues.
Styling Tips to Rock Your Killstar Threads
Half the fun of fashion is putting together killer outfits that express your personality and vibe. When it comes to styling Killstar, I‘m all about mixing those witchy, grungy pieces with more classic or feminine styles for an unexpected twist. Here are a few of my favorite ways to rock Killstar for everyday and going out:
- Pair a Killstar graphic tee with a black tulle skirt, fishnet stockings, and combat boots for a punk princess look
- Layer the Hell Bunny moto jacket over a vintage band tee, black skinny jeans, and creepers for classic rock vibes
- Wear the Bloodlust velvet maxi dress with a wide-brim felt hat, chunky silver rings, and ankle booties for the perfect witchy date night outfit
- Throw on the Bad Vibes strappy dress with some platform Mary Janes and a mini backpack for an easy festival look
- Mix the Luna Mortis lace top with some faux leather leggings, tall boots, and a choker for a sexy vampire-chic going out look
Of course, the beauty of alternative fashion is interpreting trends in your own unique way. Don‘t be afraid to experiment with layering, accessorizing, and playing with proportions to find what makes you feel most comfy and powerful in your Killstar pieces.
Is Killstar Worth It? My Verdict
So, is Killstar worth selling your soul for? As someone who has been wearing this brand for years, I give them a resounding hell yes – with a few caveats.
There‘s no denying that Killstar makes high-quality, swoon-worthy pieces for anyone who wants to embrace their darker side. From the clever designs to the size inclusivity to the sheer range of products, this is a brand that truly caters to and celebrates the gothic community.
That being said, Killstar isn‘t exactly cheap. Depending on your budget, those $80+ dresses and $150 coats can definitely be a splurge. The way I see it, investing in a few well-made, versatile Killstar items that you absolutely love and will wear over and over is totally justifiable. Just maybe wait for a good sale (which they have often!) before going ham.
The other thing to remember is that while the majority of Killstar items are fantastic, with any clothing brand there can be the occasional dud or inconsistencies with sizing and shipping. My advice? Always check the reviews and size charts, and don‘t be afraid to reach out to customer service if you have issues. The brand is usually very responsive and accommodating.
All in all, if you‘re someone who lives for a witchy, goth-glam, or punk rock aesthetic, Killstar is an absolute must-shop. No one does dark style quite like them, and you can feel good about supporting an indie brand that celebrates alternative culture.
So, go forth and embrace your inner creature of the night with Killstar – just maybe go easy on that "add to cart" button. 🦇🖤
Where to Buy Killstar
Ready to fill your closet with Killstar‘s killer designs? Here‘s the scoop on where and how to shop the brand:
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Killstar.com – This is the brand‘s official website and the best place to find the widest selection of products. They offer worldwide shipping, easy returns, and frequent sales.
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Dolls Kill – This alternative fashion retailer carries some of Killstar‘s most popular items, often with free U.S. shipping and discount codes.
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Hot Topic – If you‘re in the U.S., you might be able to score some Killstar tees, dresses, and accessories at your local Hot Topic store. Just note that in-store selection is limited.
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eBay and Depop – You can sometimes find new or gently used Killstar pieces on resale sites for a fraction of the retail price. Just be sure to check seller ratings and item details carefully.
Unfortunately, the brand doesn‘t have any permanent physical stores at this time. But who knows what the future may hold! In the meantime, I hope this guide has given you all the deets you need to confidently shop Killstar online and in the wild.
Until next time, my fellow children of the night. Stay spooky! 🕸️🩸🔮
