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The Role of Fashion in the Magical Subcultures in The Ancient Magus’ Bride

Hello, I finally ended up writing this, it took me a long time because I read the entire thing, taking notes to write this as best as possible, I hope you enjoy it!!

I think this manga presents a rich and intricate world of magic that is deeply intertwined with various subcultures. These groups possesses distinct visual and stylistic identities that reinforce their philosophies, practices, and roles within the magical society. Fashion in this universe is not merely a means of aesthetic expression but a crucial element that symbolizes power, tradition, and belonging.

1. The Traditional Elegance of Mages

Among Mages we can find two quite distinctive ways of dressing, to understand it better I have separated it into two groups, mages born before the 20th century and mages born after the 20th century (20th century included).

Mages born before the 20th century, often wear long robes, cloaks, and garments inspired by historical periods ranging from the first centuries of the Middle Ages to the Edwardian era. These designs reinforce their ties to ancient traditions and their mystical, timeless nature.

Magicians born in the 20th century and later have not been as separated as the rest, living through the two world wars or being born after them in a world where the massacre of mages that happened is remembered has made them live more in contact and collaboration with normal humans, sorcerers, witches, etc. In addition, their way of dressing is more aligned with current trends, but they still have a very marked style since although "young" most of this group is still 70+ years.

Beyond individual characters, the mages clothing often incorporates intricate embroidery, symbolic patterns, and high collars, which reflect their reverence for history and knowledge. Some wear amulets, sashes, or belts adorned with sigils, reinforcing their connection to the magical arts. The use of darker, muted colors, combined with flowing silhouettes, enhances the perception of mages as ethereal and wise figures who exist on the border between the mundane and the arcane. Additionally, mages, much like the fae, do not have a rigid concept of gender, and this is reflected in their clothing. They often wear garments that blur traditional gender norms, emphasizing fluidity and personal expression over societal expectations.

The best example of this is Lindel, but actually Elias’ coat pattern is a mix from a woman´s coat pattern of the Edwardian era with like ‘magic’ sleeves, same thing happens with his shirt.

That there are two aspects of such marked styles gives us a clue to the great generational gap that exists within this subculture, in addition to the fact that, on both sides, individualism is so marked that it causes loneliness, since they are the only group that does not have a feeling of community.

This is reflected in how badly they seem to cope with the passage of time (constant memory of the past), falling into constant monotony which makes them have that aura of "I wish we were extinct now" all the time.

2. The Pragmatism of Alchemists

Unlike mages, alchemists prioritize functionality over mystical aesthetics. Their attire is often contemporary and practical, featuring lab coats, aprons, and minimalistic yet refined clothing that reflect their scientific approach to magic. While they still engage with supernatural forces, alchemists tend to favor efficiency and utility, which is evident in their choice of materials and silhouettes.

For example, alchemists are frequently seen wearing fitted garments that allow for ease of movement, ensuring that their work with potions, metals, and reagents remains unhindered. Many also wear gloves, boots, and protective eyewear, emphasizing their role as experimenters and researchers. The color palette among alchemists is often composed of neutral and earth tones, such as browns, grays, and dark greens, further differentiating them from the more ‘flamboyant’ mages and ethereal fae.

Accessories also play a significant role in their appearance. Pouches filled with vials, belts adorned with small tools, and pocket watches suggest a sense of preparedness and intellectual rigor. These elements reinforce the idea that alchemists operate within a structured, almost scientific domain of magic, distinguishing them from the more intuitive and nature-bound practices of traditional mages.

However, the fact that they are the subculture most similar to humans from outside the magical world has its consequences, they suffer from practicing the same social norms, gender roles, prejudices and discrimination.

All this makes the most logical subculture the most illogical at the same time, falling into hypocrisy as can be perfectly seen in the St George family.

It is known that sorcerers come from magicians, that at some point in time the two branches separated, so doing 'mage' things while performing rituals is fine (crossdressing in St George case) but doing it in society is simply unacceptable.

3. The Ethereal and Otherworldly Fae Fashion

The fae creatures exhibit a dazzling variety of styles, reflecting their diverse origins, magical abilities, and roles within their own societies. Unlike humans, who are often bound by practical concerns, the fae express themselves through elaborate and fantastical attire that defies conventional rules of dress. Their clothing often seems to be a direct extension of their surroundings, appearing woven from leaves, petals, mist, and even moonlight.

Some, like Titania, wear elaborate and regal dresses adorned with natural motifs, symbolizing their status as rulers of the supernatural realm. Her attire incorporates flowing fabrics, shimmering textures, and organic elements, creating an image of both grace and power. The delicate embroidery and iridescent sheen of her gowns make her presence mesmerizing and almost untouchable, reinforcing her divine status among the fae.

In contrast, smaller woodland fae often wear garments that mimic the flora and fauna of their environment. Their clothing, though intricate, blends seamlessly with their surroundings, making them appear as though they are a natural part of the forest itself. Their materials may include silk spun by magical creatures, feathers, or even bark, adding an element of the surreal to their overall aesthetic.

Another key aspect of fae fashion is its lack of rigid structure. Unlike the tailored garments of humans, fae clothing appears weightless, as if it flows and changes shape according to their whims. This fluidity of design mirrors their free-spirited and often unpredictable nature, emphasizing their detachment from human constraints and rules. Like mages, the fae do not adhere to strict gender binaries, and their clothing reflects this philosophy. Fae attire often incorporates elements traditionally associated with both masculinity and femininity, creating a dreamlike and androgynous aesthetic that highlights their otherworldly nature.

4. Church-Affiliated Attire and Holy Symbolism

The Church-affiliated magic users, such as the hunters and those who enforce divine laws, incorporate religious elements into their clothing, using their attire as both a symbol of authority and a means of protection against dark forces. Their garments often include long coats, crosses, and modest yet imposing robes that signify their devotion to their cause. The strict, almost militaristic nature of their fashion choices reflects their rigid ideology and their mission to maintain order between the human and supernatural worlds.

The use of heavy fabrics, high collars, and structured silhouettes conveys a sense of discipline and restraint. In some cases, metallic or leather elements are incorporated into their attire, further reinforcing their role as warriors against malevolent forces. The contrast between sacred iconography and the practicality of their outfits highlights the tension between faith-based power and the chaotic nature of the magical world.

Their color palettes are often composed of dark hues, punctuated by silver or gold accents that symbolize divinity and righteousness. These elements create a striking visual contrast with the more fluid and organic styles of mages and fae, making them instantly recognizable as figures of law and order within the magical realm.

So much rigidity when it comes to dressing gives us a clue that the collective thinking of the order is prioritized, where individualistic thinking is not welcome and will be eliminated if encounter.

5. The Wild and Mystical Attire of Witches

Witches represent a balance between nature and magic, and their clothing reflects this connection. Their attire often consists of layered fabrics, asymmetrical designs, and a mix of rustic and mystical elements. Unlike mages, who tend to favor more structured and refined garments, witches embrace a raw and untamed aesthetic that aligns with their close relationship with nature.

Many witches wear cloaks, patchwork dresses, and garments adorned with natural motifs such as feathers, bones, and dried herbs. Their clothing is often dyed in deep, earthy colors—burgundy, forest green, and dark purples—reinforcing their ties to the wilderness and ancient magical traditions. Accessories such as talismans, charms, and animal-inspired elements further emphasize their role as intermediaries between the magical and natural worlds.

Witches also share the fae and mages' fluid approach to gender expression, with clothing that does not conform to strict masculine or feminine norms. This allows them to embody an air of mystery and autonomy, setting them apart from the more rigidly structured sorcerers and church-affiliated figures.

It should also be noted that they are the subculture that seems to adapt best to the passage of time, being the ones who dress the most contemporary and seductive.

If we take the coven seen in Tamb as an example, both black and face veils are used as ceremonial garments, which can also symbolize that when they have to decide about the good of their coven, they have to leave their individuality behind and only think about the communal good.

That sense of community is probably what has allowed them to keep up with the passage of time better than mages.

#Niceee #mahoyome analysis #now we have the gorgon fashion too!#mahoutsukai no yome

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