What is Cathedral Core?
Cathedral Core is an aesthetic which embraces Medieval Gothic architecture in a modern way. Like many Goth substyles it tends towards the dark, but is most recognisable by it’s celebration of tracery and epic statement ornamentation. If you’re not into stained glass windows, Cathedral Core probably isn’t for you.
As someone who has adored Gothic architecture since childhood, becoming aware of Cathedral Core and realising that my subject of fascination had finally hit the zeitgeist was a dream! Now all the other cathedral fanciers have crawled out of the woodwork on a much bigger scale and I’m finally spoiled for choice when it comes to Medieval Gothic fashion, decor and art. You may even have noticed a resurgence in interest in illuminated manuscripts in the form of memes. You know, human faced cats and butt trumpets, that kind of thing. Love your work Medieval monks 
Why am I drawn to this style?
For me it was a forgone conclusion. I grew up in a Neo Gothic Victorian house complete with stained glass windows and pull-cord light switches. My aesthetic was set almost from birth and I know I’ll always be happiest surrounded by dark wood, a colour palette of burgundy, forest green and gold and a ludicrous amount of pattern. To find out there are others is strangely comforting.
Inspiring advocates
I have come across some incredible artists flying the Cathedral Core flag high so I thought I’d share just a few to get you started:
For everyday jewellery to set the dark mood check out Disir or for something more ostentatious I recommend William Griffiths.
For incredible styling ideas you want to follow Kellsey, Hekate and Federica.
And finally for for the most exquisite body art see Penny.
My latest ode to Cathedral Core
Every now and then I like to indulge my love of Gothic tracery, miniature things, hiding stuff and mechanical jewellery by making something I know will cost me dearly in time and money and I’ll probably never be able to sell. But I do it anyway because I’m compelled to.
This time it started with the smallest possible chainmaille vest I could construct and grew into a miniature Medieval armoury complete with weapons rack (with sword, axe and pike), armour tree and candle wall sconce, all accessed through a movable portcullis set in a Gothic arch frame. My only regret is that the candle doesn’t actually light up, a copper flame will have to suffice.
Each component is constructed from hand pierced sterling silver and the whole piece probably took me a day and a half to make plus another day to draw up the actual design.
Check out the making of this sweet little wearable diorama on my Instagram.
See more cathedral inspired pieces below or check out the Skadi Black section of my online store for the full range of Gothic goodies.
