We're In for a "Vampire Winter"—8 Steps to Achieving the Dark-Chic Style

Everyone who meets me quickly learns a few things: I'm a Scorpio, I'm a bit of an insomniac, and my personal aesthetic integrates—among others—elements of indie sleaze, old Hollywood chic, and bygone European decadence. So whenever vampires begin trending again, it truly feels like my time. Between the recent release of Robert Eggers's version of Nosferatu and the overall restless vibes and angled sun rays that come with the colder months, having a "vampire winter" seems to be the perfect way to get through the season with some appropriately brooding allure. This aesthetic is easier to achieve than you think: You likely already have many of its signature dark hues and sophisticated silhouettes. Read on for our full guide to vampire style for winter, complete with eight style essentials to get the look.

What Is "Vampire Winter" Style?

If you like elements of the quiet luxury and "mob wife" aesthetics that have been ruling fall and winter fashion over the past two years, think of "vampire winter" as an irresistible romance between the two. The look brings together a dark, warm-toned palette (including trending hues like chocolate brown and burgundy) with silhouettes that run the gamut between sharp and structured and sensual Gothic fantasy.

Vampire style is unapologetic about its luxe elements, embracing its dark decadence like a second skin. The idea here is to put together an ensemble that feels like it came from an enviable, time-honored wardrobe—because, after all, your inspiration is immortal and had their heyday centuries ago. Vintage finds fit in beautifully, but so does any curation of elevated, timeless pieces you'll want to wear again and again for seasons to come (or eternally, if you find someone to change you).

Which vampires inspire your winter aesthetic are ultimately up to personal preference, as we're blessed with a bevy of chic monsters who have wide-ranging vibes. Like many who grew up with the Twilight movies, the Cullen family's indie-sleaze-meets-otherworldly aesthetic is a constant source of inspiration for me (almost as much as their sparkling skin, which I channel via highlighter and shimmer eyeshadow throughout winter's darkest days).

But I've also been looking to classic Gothic vampire media, including various takes on Nosferatu, as well as movies from the '60s-'70s vampire revival like Blood and Roses and Daughters of Darkness. The latter's starring immortal, Countess Elizabeth Báthory, has a sensual glamour that directly inspired Lady Gaga's countess in American Horror Story: Hotel, one of my forever favorite characters. While she has all the luxe black and red pieces you can imagine, a standout moment in the film is when she wears an ultra-sparkly silver gown, providing a compelling, undead take on the disco aesthetic.

As you can see, there are several ways to embody vampire style this winter, all of which blend eternal sophistication and classic horror vibes with elements of the time's trends. When it comes to recreating the look for yourself, you'll want to sink your teeth into elegant outerwear, decadent jewels, and all things darkly ethereal. Read on for eight building blocks to get you started on your supernatural sartorial journey.

How to Achieve Vampire Style

Coats, Glorious Coats

A solid outerwear lineup is a winter essential, no matter your aesthetic—and luckily, it's easy to achieve vampire energy in this department. Sharp tailoring in a dark hue will make you feel like you could run a coven, while "mob wife" furs and other statement textures understand the timeless luxury assignment.

Striking Pointed-Toe Boots

Channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw when building your vampire wardrobe this winter, as a robust collection of impeccable footwear will ensure you walk with mystical allure. Opt for classic black boots with a pointed toe, or tap into current trends like kitten heels or elevated animal print.

Victorian House Dresses

Leaning into the Gothic side of vampirism, a delicate yet intricate nightgown or house dress pulls some major weight in conjuring up an ethereal vibe. A vintage treasure would be a stunning choice, but so would newer finds from brands like Hill House and Mirror Palais (may The Vampire's Wife rest in peace), as well as any and all robes best suited for a glamorous widow with a suspicious past. One recent night, I wandered up the stairs of my building to find a misplaced delivery order while wearing a black nap dress, and the outfit choice romanticized my mundane frustrations.

Ornate Blouses

On days when you'd rather stick to a pants-centric outfit, your go-to trousers or cigarette pants will do the trick, so long as you elevate them with a stunningly detailed blouse. Lace, pussy bows, and/or a luxe material all go a long way in taking an everyday ensemble into vampire-worthy territory.

Time-Honored Jewels

As with any specific look, the vampire aesthetic reaches its greatest heights with thoughtful, impeccable styling. Our immortal inspo usually has achieved a life of great luxury through centuries of haunting (we mean, "hard work"), so opt for jewelry with old money vibes. The oldest money vibes, to be exact. Imagine what a good cameo pendant or elaborate brooch will add to your look—or lean into the glamour element with a cascading pair of glitzy earrings. Alternatively, the blood pearl necklace from Dior's spring 2006 couture collection (or any similar piece) is a perfect fit here.

Luxurious Gloves

As I've been having to remind myself in the bitter cold of the past few weeks, gloves may be the ultimate winter essential. Luckily, an elegant iteration only serves to enhance your vampire vibes. Opt for a leather pair, something with fur trim, or a dramatic opera gloves silhouette (just please don't forget to show us your mani).

Emotional Support Sunglasses

Remember: You're a vampire, so you're not supposed to see the sun. When it comes to shades, the bigger, the darker, the better. Luxe details are welcome, but a solid black pair also suffices. But perhaps even more important than the style is the mentality: Rock your sunglasses confidently on cloudy days, in the subway, and more, and embrace the main character energy you build with this practice.

A Sparkly Statement Piece

When in doubt, make like the Countess and lean into your most supernatural energy via an ultra-glitzy piece or two. While a gown is a fitting way to do so for any grand events on your agenda, a reflective accessory like a sparkly handbag or shoes will also do the trick. I felt like the life of the party in the below disco boots on New Year's Eve, and I can't wait to style them with more vampiresque silhouettes as winter rages on.