Distinguishing Between Goth & Prep

Goth vs Prep

Goth and Prep are terms often found in pop culture used to stereotype individuals based on their appearance and personality. It is crucial to remember that while most Goths and Preps fit the stereotype, it does not apply to all of them.

Key Takeaways

• Goths are part of the Gothic subculture, often wearing dark clothing, having piercings, and reflecting a dark theme in their music, literature, and overall appearance.
• Prep is short for preparatory and refers to affluent individuals who attend preparatory schools, dress conservatively, and may come across as obnoxious due to their wealth.
• Goth and Prep are opposites in many ways, with Goth being rebellious and Prep being more traditional and conservative.

Who is a Goth?

Goths, or those of the Gothic subculture, are people who predominantly wear black outfits, have multiple piercings, and punk-styled haircuts, portraying a dark persona. Goth has its origins in music, as an offshoot of the post-Punk era, and literature. The dark theme of their music and prose became reflected in their clothing and personality.

Who is a Prep?

Prep, on the other hand, is for more affluent individuals. Prep is short for preparatory and refers to people attending preparatory or prep schools. The stereotype is of wealthy children or teenagers dressing conservatively and casually. They are usually seen in vests and long-sleeved shirts for men and collared blouses and knee-length skirts for women. They tend to be portrayed as rich individuals who can be a bit obnoxious.

What is the difference between Goth and Prep?

Goth and Prep are, in several ways, the very opposite of each other. Prep is considered traditional, while Goth is rebellious. Preps tend to be very neat with their appearance, giving off a young professional look. Goths, on the other hand, wear dark clothes and arrange their hair in various ways, usually portraying aloof characteristics. While Goths are stereotypically characterized as aggressive individuals, Preps are considered stuck-up individuals as they come from wealthy families.

Goth vs Prep

• Goth is a subculture composed of individuals who favor the darker side of the world and reflect it in their mood, clothing, literature, and music.
• Prep is a term used to refer to wealthy people attending preparatory schools. Over time, Prep came to mean affluent individuals who dress in conservative and traditional clothes but sometimes display stuck-up behavior.
• Goths are rebellious, while Preps are conservative.
• Preps portray a young professional look, while Goths portray aloof characteristics.
• While Preps are viewed as stuck-up individuals with a rich background, Goths are stereotypically characterized as aggressive individuals.