The allure of gothic beauty lies in its profound versatility and depth, encompassing everything from the ethereal and romantic to the darkly dramatic. Whether you're crafting your look for a day-to-day spell of goth aesthetics or aiming for viral Instagram glam, mastering gothic beauty is an art form. Here are essential tips and strategies for embodying gothic charm in your makeup routines, transforming the Heavens No into the Hell Yes.
The Foundations of Goth Makeup
1. Creating a Flawless Canvas: Goth makeup often begins with a flawless, even base. Whether you opt for a porcelain look or match your natural skin tone, aim for a matte finish foundation that can be set with a translucent powder. This sets the stage for dramatic colours and contrasts to come.
I personally recommend Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer as it combines two steps to save time.
I also recommend Maybelline FIT Me Matte + Poreless translucent setting powder as it's lightweight and keeps oil at bay for hours.
2. Embracing the Dramatic Eye:
Eyes are the focal point in gothic makeup, embodying the soul's windows with a compelling narrative. Begin with a reliable eyeshadow primer, then dive into dark eyeshadows like black, deep reds, or purples. Smoky eyes or sharp, winged eyeliner add instant drama, while waterproof formulas ensure your artistry stays intact, perfect for captivating Instagram shots.
For pigmented, beautiful eyeshadows, I recommend the palettes by Jolie Beauty. I use the Ethereality and Sirens palettes, they are super versatile and great for blending.
For a reliable eye primer, I'd go for Revolution Ultimate Eye Base. It's amazing at keeping your eyeshadow in tact, even with oily skin. I use the Light shade.
3. Bold Lips that Speak Volumes:
Deep reds, plums, and black lipsticks are staple hues within gothic beauty. A precise, well-defined lip line is crucial, so consider using a lip brush for application and setting your lipstick with a similar or translucent powder for longevity.
I prefer matte finish lipstick so I would recommend Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Lip Colour. It's easy to apply with the cute little wand and once it dries, it stays put for hours. It also comes in a lot of different colours (I use a red, a black and a purple) .
Daytime Goth Elegance
For everyday wear, the key is style with a touch of gothic essence. A thin, sharp winged eyeliner, a tint of dark lipstick blotted for a stain effect, and a touch of highlighter on the high points of your face bring daytime-friendly gothic elegance. Keep your eyeshadow muted with shades of grey or soft purple to maintain a professional yet individualistic look. Alternatively, opt for a pretty shimmer in purple, red or green hues, dabbed in the inner corners of the eye to create a fresh and cute daily look.
Instagram Gothic Glam
When the sun sets, and it’s time to bring the Instagram gothic glam, layering becomes your best friend. Amplify your eye makeup with glitter or metallic shades on top of your dark base for an otherworldly sparkle. Use false lashes to bring an exaggerated allure to your eyes, perfect for those close-up selfies. Contouring with a cooler shade can accentuate your facial structure, adding to the dramatic flair suitable for the Instagoth community.
The Finishing Touches
- Setting the Scene: To ensure your gothic gorgeousness remains flawless throughout the day or your photoshoot, use a setting spray that mattifies or illuminates, depending on your desired finish.
- Accessorizing: Gothic beauty is never complete without the right accessories. Chokers, earrings, and headpieces can complement your makeup and add that extra layer of #gothgoth authenticity to your look.
- Natural Hair or Wigs: Whether you are styling your hair or opting for a wig, hairstyles can play a crucial role in gothic aesthetics. Consider braids, curls, or straight styles with or without hair accessories to match your makeup vibe.
Alternatively, why not rock a deathhawk or trad backcomb style?
Final Thoughts
Gothic beauty is not just about the makeup; it’s an expression of individuality, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the darker aesthetic. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle day look or going full-on Insta-glam, remember that the essence of goth beauty lies in self-expression and authenticity. Embrace your unique interpretation of gothic beauty, and let it shine through your everyday looks and those carefully curated Instagram posts. (Don't forget the hashtags!)
Makeup is a powerful tool for transformation and expression. Let it reflect who you are and the story you want to tell the world. Let your gothic beauty be an extension of your inner-self; mysterious, compelling, and uniquely you.
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