Is Jt demonic?
Heaven Sent(3 minute read)
Jt’s Alternative Fashion and Gothic Aesthetics in the Black Community
Jt, the rapper known for her unique sense of style, has become a notable figure in the intersection of hip-hop and alternative fashion. Embracing elements of gothic, punk, and streetwear styles, Jt's fashion choices challenge the mainstream expectations often placed on Black (female!) artists. Her looks often feature dark, edgy aesthetics—think leather jackets, bold makeup, chains, and studs—blurring the lines between the worlds of hip-hop and alternative subcultures.
However, while Jt’s style is celebrated by many for its boldness and individuality, it’s important to acknowledge the complex relationship between the Black community and gothic fashion. Historically, gothic fashion has often been viewed as a style that doesn’t resonate with traditional Black cultural expressions. For many, the gothic look can seem distant from the community's mainstream identity, which is more closely tied to vibrant, colorful, and often Afrocentric or urban fashion trends. This disconnect can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and negative perceptions of gothic fashion within Black spaces, often being viewed as “demonic” or possessing “dark energy”. A common thesis of artists in the music industry is that at some point, they must sell their soul in exchange for fame and riches. Recently, Jt’s rise from a group member to a solo artist has resulted in similar accusations. Her relationship with rapper Lil Uzi Vert has further fueled these assertions.
Moreover, alternative fashion in Black culture has often been scrutinized and even stigmatized as being “too white” or “alienating.” As a result, many Black individuals who identify with goth or alternative styles face judgment or exclusion. Despite these challenges, artists like Jt are challenging these stereotypes, showing that fashion, like music, can be an expression of personal identity without boundaries.
Jt’s embrace of gothic fashion speaks to a larger trend of individuality and freedom of expression in Black culture. As she continues to break boundaries, she’s helping redefine what it means to blend diverse influences, proving that style—whether gothic, punk, or otherwise—has a rightful place in Black culture, offering more room for creativity and self-expression. Through fashion, Jt is showing that she is more than just a “ghetto black girl” from Miami. She is a fashion icon, who isn’t afraid to embrace every facet of herself.