Steampunk notes

• Sub-genre of science fiction
• Inspired by industrial western civilization during 19th century
• Set in alternate history of 19th century's British Victorian Era
• Post-apocalyptic future
• Steam power regained mainstream usage
• Fantasy world employs steam power
• Prominent in late 80's/early 90's
• Described as "full of wonder" and "functional, logical, and very British"
• Term first coined in '87 by author J.W. Jeter
• Used to describe genre of speculative fiction which steam, not electricity, drove technological advances
• Envokes sense of whimsy and optimism
• Settings in 30's/40's more dystopian with far more oppressive atmosphere
• Not uncommon for setting to be completely fantasy
• Sometimes Earthly connection maintained
• Developed into visual expectation
• Common themes: corruption, rebellion, advanced technology  over industrialized, whimsical or dark and thought provoking
• Key is modding - remaking everyday gadgets into wearable fashion
• Items used for modding: brass fixings, gears, fine leather, lenses, goggles, etc
• Objects become more energy efficient and environmentally friendly when modded
• Fashion based on Victorian style
• Colours very subdued-rarely bright
• Neutral, sometimes red and blue found around goggles
• Women - Dresses with petticoats, corsets (under or over bust), headgear
• Small tophat or floral pin
• Pilot, air pirate, or engineer dress encouraged
• Men - Well-ironed suits with vests, top hats and long straight coats which bear Victorian resemblance
• Roguish variation with high leather boots, gloves and goggles
• Both - Pocket watch, no wrist watch
• Goggles are vital
• Lolita - Japanese fashion brought in the 80's
• Inspired by Victorian England
• Cousin to Steampunk, although more girly