There is a common stigma attached to fashion. It is actually an unfortunate byproduct of a well-meaning but overly zealous backlash against the ancient dominance of "style over substance". A feeling arose in the general populace that society rewarded those who kept a good appearance over those who performed good deeds. And, of course, this was rightly considered a bad thing. Somehow, though, the philosophy was twisted, such that to strive for a good appearance became considered the antithesis of striving to do good deeds. Hence we have terms like "fashion victim".
I agree that to exalt appearance over merit is foolish, but I think that the true fashion victim is the one who neglects the potential of the decoration of the body. Clothing must be functional; it keeps us warm, protects us from sun and rain, and hides those parts of our body that certain people are afraid to look upon. It can, however, be much more than that, and it is truly a shame that many people -- men in particular -- are too fearful or apathetic to make it so.
I'm working toward the point where I can cross those boundaries. I intend to build up a wardrobe, over time, that is both functional and interesting. I'm also experimenting with different hair colours, make up, nail polish, and jewelry. I used to simply buy the cheapest clothing I could find to fit my fairly narrow self image; now I'm willing to spend a little extra for the entertainment value of expanding the image I project. I don't consider myself "vain", but I do appreciate the acknowledgement that others give to my efforts; especially when my new fashion direction surprises, shocks, or even amuses them. It amuses me, too. I still spend less money and time on fashion than I do on other forms of art and entertainment, but new clothes are always a higher priority for me than cable TV. And I'm proud of that.
For those of you who have been confused by people prowling the streets at night with pale faces and antiquated clothes, let me introduce you to gothic fashion. "Goths" aren't a gang, a cult, or a supernatural phenomenon (as much as some of them would love to make believe they're vampires). So what are they?
If you talk to more than one of them, you'll almost certainly get differing opinions on what exactly makes a person a "goth". To some it requires an interest in the occult. Some say it depends on the music you like. Or a fascination with death. In fact, you will probably find that the person you are talking to is a "true goth", while nearly everyone else is some kind of impersonator.
However, to the layman, the real test of a goth is whether the person in question looks like one. Being sort of a "weekender" goth myself, I'll show you what to look for. You might even try dressing up one night yourself; the morbid seriousness you probably have detected in some of your hardcore examples truly belies the monstrous fun of it all!