The “Wuthering Heights” Effect: Why Gothic Romance is the New Trend

Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi hit theaters this Friday. Here is how their moody aesthetic is already taking over fashion.

February 11, 2026

Forget the “Clean Girl” aesthetic. It’s time to get moody.

This Friday yes, appropriately on Friday the 13th the highly anticipated adaptation of Wuthering Heights hits theaters. The internet is already obsessed with the pairing of Margot Robbie (as Catherine) and Jacob Elordi (as the brooding Heathcliff).

While the movie promises drama, the real story is the viral moment from the London premiere that has single-handedly launched the “Gothic Romance” trend.

The Viral Moment: “Heathcliff in the Rain”

If you haven’t seen the video yet, you will. During the London premiere earlier this week, a sudden downpour caught the stars on the red carpet. In a moment that looked scripted but wasn’t, Jacob Elordi shielded Margot Robbie from the rain, creating a real-life scene more romantic than the trailer.

That single image Robbie in a sheer, corseted gown and Elordi in a moody grey suit, battling the elements—has defined the aesthetic of the season: dark, dramatic, and intensely romantic.

The Look: “Moorcore”

Fashion insiders are dubbing this trend “Moorcore” (referencing the windy moors of the film). It is a sharp pivot away from bright colors toward deep textures and historical references.

Margot Robbie has been spearheading this with “method dressing.” Her London premiere look featured a custom gown with braided details and in a shocking gothic twist a bracelet made from a replica of author Emily Brontë’s own hair.

3 Ways to Get the “Gothic Romance” Look

You don’t need a corset to participate in the trend. Here is the modern way to wear it this weekend:

• The Texture: Swap your cotton blazer for a crushed velvet jacket in deep green or burgundy.

• The Detail: Look for tops with high necks, ruffles, or sheer black lace sleeves.

• The Beauty: Skip the bronzer and go for a “bitten” berry lip stain and tousled, undone hair.

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