One of L.A.'s great eccentric clothiers, Clockwork Couture is where serious steampunks source their parasols, gloves, frilly hats, goggles, gowns, long coats, leather ...

The hats and equestrian-themed outfits in John Galliano's summer 2013 collection for Dior are said to have been similarly influenced. High-street and internet retailers haven't been slow to react.

Steampunk conjures up images of 19th-century top hats, corsets, petticoats, ... Millicent Philomena Ambrose Wheelwright (middle) says women in steampunk are protagonists and adventurers.