Current Issue
Letter from the Editor
The steady rhythm of practiced hands. The ache of muscles pushed a little further. The moment when concentration sharpens, the outside world falls away and every movement becomes deliberate. Until, at last, all that dedication rewards you with the thrill of surpassing what you thought possible.
We begin with the arts. Our cover story introduces Emma Rose, designer behind The Moon's Alibi, who invites us into her studio to discover the care and craftsmanship poured into each of her extraordinary creations. We also meet Noël Nielsen of Deadly Night Shades, whose electric vision transforms an often-overlooked household object into a work of art. Looking beyond the workbench, we celebrate 13 contemporary gothic artists pushing their respective mediums in fascinating directions, alongside 16 masterpieces from art history whose stories still have something to teach us today.
Physical discipline offers its own rewards. From the satisfying exhaustion of a demanding workout to the confidence that comes with mastering a new skill, movement gives us an opportunity to discover what we’re capable of. We've rounded up 13 dark feminine fitness experiences for those seeking something outside the conventional gym, accompanied by a gothic activewear directory for breaking a sweat in style.
In recognition of National Kink Month, we're exploring the value of education within BDSM. Our conversation with Good Ember introduces their latest collaborative release, The Edge, while our accompanying brand directory highlights makers creating thoughtfully designed tools for exploration.
With spooky season in full swing, we've also indulged our fondness for all things witchy. Our Bog Witch style guide ventures into the darker corners of European folklore, while The Haunted Hearth brings gothic charm into the kitchen. For evenings best spent indoors, we've assembled a watchlist of 13 spellbinding films and series, from beloved cult classics to genuinely frightening folk horror.
For free, subscribe below and/or read the full issue digitally here.
With devotion,
Amanda
Cover: courtesy of Emma Rose; Photographer: @candiceghaiphotography; Model: Emma Rose, @themoonsalibicollection; Hair: @pincurledperfection.
Feature Articles
Cover Story | Where Imagination Wanders: A Window to the Workbench of The Moon's Alibi
How designer Emma Rose transforms her innermost experiences into extraordinary works of wearable art
By: Amanda Albert
There is a profound sincerity to the way Emma Rose speaks about her art. The designer of The Moon's Alibi approaches her work with the curiosity of someone still discovering what she's capable of, and a reverence for the creative minds who have helped shape her ambitions. David Bowie's philosophy of pushing beyond one's comfort zone has become something of a guiding principle, while Alexander McQueen's deeply personal approach to design remains a source of admiration.
That philosophy has been a guiding light for Rose, illuminating the path to what has become a defining year in her creative journey. In 2026, she debuted her first runway collection, the culmination of more than a year's work in the studio and a dream she'd held since childhood. She also found herself confronting an unfortunate reality of independent design, speaking candidly about the emotional toll of design theft by a fast-fashion brand. Both experiences reveal an artist deeply invested in the integrity of what she creates.
Yet, perhaps the most compelling part of Rose's story is how intimately her creative evolution is connected to her own. Each new piece demands something of her technically and offers an opportunity to understand herself more fully. As she continues to explore what her art can become, the ambition remains personal: to keep challenging herself, honour the work and see just how far she can go.
We had the pleasure of sitting down with Emma to explore the story behind The Moon’s Alibi, and how her pursuit of creative excellence continues to shape her journey as an independent designer.
Grave Misconduct: 11 Goth-Coded Halloween Costumes for 2026
A little dress-up inspired by the year's most memorable troublemakers
By: The Lace Ledger Staff
This year has been especially generous with Halloween inspiration, although we're not entirely convinced that was intentional…
Cinema has delivered some extraordinary characters, while current events have provided ample material for satire. Meanwhile, the FW26 runways have made a surprisingly persuasive case for dressing like a bird of ill omen.
Fortunately, a memorable costume doesn't require an entirely new wardrobe. Start with pieces already lurking in your closet, add a few peculiar accessories and see what treasures you can unearth at the thrift store. A little imagination goes a long way, especially when you're prepared to look slightly deranged ;).
Class Is in Session: Good Ember's Hands-On Approach to BDSM Education
Curious about kink? This Canadian intimacy brand has a few rather interesting lessons planned
By: The Lace Ledger Staff
Leather-clad dominatrices. Elaborate dungeons. Ominous contraptions that look like they belong in a medieval interrogation chamber. Popular culture has given BDSM a rather theatrical reputation, and Hollywood has certainly done its part to keep the misconceptions alive.
Beyond the familiar imagery lies a practice deeply rooted in psychology, where trust and communication create the freedom to set aside the weight of the outside world and become wholly absorbed in the experience you're sharing. Like most things involving desire, BDSM exists across a broad spectrum. Some people pursue intense, highly structured experiences, while others are simply curious about relinquishing control for an evening or introducing a new dynamic with a partner. There is plenty of territory to explore between the extremes, provided everyone involved understands the rules of engagement.
That is where Good Ember comes in.
Bound to Impress: The National Kink Month Brand Directory
13 brands we recommend exploring, whatever your experience or interests
By: The Lace Ledger Staff
October is National Kink Month, and we can't think of a better excuse to indulge a little curiosity. From haute couture latex to furnishings with rather interesting design specifications, the world of kink offers plenty to discover.
We've rounded up our favourite brands worth exploring at every level of experience, from the kink-curious to seasoned enthusiasts. A little inspiration for wherever your interests might lead.
Past Issues
About Us
The Lace Ledger is a dark feminine field guide to style, culture and the arts. Inspired by soft goth aesthetics with an eye for the beautiful and strange, we explore the people and ideas shaping life on the moodier side of the culture.
Founded by writer and poet Amanda Albert, The Lace Ledger grew from a desire for a publication where alternative tastes could be treated with the same depth and editorial curiosity afforded to the mainstream.
Here you’ll find:
Style — Seasonal style, trend reports and beauty with soft goth sensibility.
Literature + the Arts — Poetry, reading lists and conversations with the creatives behind the work.
Culture — Film and music, with plenty to add to your watch list.
House & Haunt — Moody interiors and darkly refined entertaining.
Travel — City guides and places worth visiting.
Gift Guides — Curated finds for every occasion.
Work With Us
Reach out with your latest product launches, brand news story ideas, finished work or pitches. We’re here to create thoughtful partnerships.
We welcome collaborations with brands, creators, artists, writers and experts who share our taste for the uncommon.