Goth makeup is a dramatic and captivating look that has transcended generations. Taking inspiration from the dark and mysterious, it allows for creative freedom and a touch of the theatrical. While the 1990s saw a surge in goth makeup popularity, it continues to evolve today, offering a range of interpretations from classic dark palettes to modern, softer takes.
This guide will unveil the secrets to achieving a glamorous goth makeup look in six easy steps, perfect for anyone who wants to embrace their inner darkness.
What is Goth Makeup?
Goth makeup goes beyond a simple makeup trend. It’s a way to express yourself through bold colors and dramatic techniques. Goth makeup utilizes pale foundation, dark eyeliner, and deep lipstick shades to create a beautiful visage, often reminiscent of vampires or gothic characters.
But, goth makeup has expanded to include a spectrum of styles, from the classic dark look to softer interpretations with pops of color or shimmer.
Creating a Goth Makeup Masterpiece
Ready to trade in your bright colors for something more dramatic? Follow these steps to create a captivating goth makeup look:
Step 1 – Establish a Flawless Base
For a long-lasting goth makeup look, a matte primer is essential. Primer eliminates shine and creates a smooth canvas for your makeup. Next, apply a lightweight foundation that matches your skin tone, or a shade lighter if you prefer a paler complexion. Ensure the foundation offers flawless coverage without appearing cakey or clogging pores.
Step 2 – Build Dimension
Classic goth makeup doesn’t involve sunken features; instead, it aims for a, ethereal glow. Use a bronzer to define your cheekbones, temples, and jawline. Remember, blend the bronzer for a natural, chiseled look.
A touch of highlighter adds a subtle counterpoint to the matte foundation and bronzer. Apply a small amount of highlighter to your cheekbones, bridge of your nose, cupid’s bow (the small area above your lips), for a touch of balanced definition.
Step 3 – Craft a Smokey Eye
The smoky eye is the cornerstone of goth makeup. For a softer take on the classic smoky eye, a wintry mix of black, gray, and silver tones creates a captivating effect. Take your time layering and blending the eyeshadows for the desired intensity.
An eyeshadow palette containing all the necessary shades is ideal. Start by applying a dark matte gray shadow as the base color on your eyelid. Next, use a fluffy brush to blend the color into your crease, eliminating harsh lines.
Then, with a flat brush, pack a medium gray shimmer shade onto your eyelids, building up the color beneath the dark gray shade. Once you achieve the desired level of smokiness, blend the colors. Finally, add a touch of metallic silver shadow to the inner corners of your eyes, brow bone, and lower lash line for an extra touch of drama.
Step 4 – Perfect Your Eye Look
Dramatic black eyeliner is a must for goth makeup. Use a felt-tip eyeliner to create a sharp wing along your upper lash line. Next, line your lower lash line with a mechanical gel eyeliner in black. For added drama, smudge the liner with the eyeliner’s built-in sponge.
Complete your eye makeup with volumizing mascara. Apply several coats of mascara to your upper and lower lashes for a bold, dramatic effect.
Step 5: Define Your Brows
Clean, well-defined brows complement the dramatic eye makeup. Comb your brows into your desired shape and fill in sparse areas with a brow pencil using light, feather-like strokes. This helps you avoid creating brows that are too dark or blocky.
Step 6 – Embrace Dark Lips
Finalize your goth makeup look with a dark lipstick of your choice. Consider lining your lips first for a defined pout before applying lipstick. Classic black lipstick embodies the goth aesthetic, but you can also explore a deep plum shade for a touch of variation.
Opt for a matte lipstick that feels lightweight and long-lasting to avoid touch-ups throughout the day.
Goth Makeup – A Bold and Creative Expression
Goth makeup is more than makeup; it’s a way to showcase your creativity and individuality. With its dark and dramatic elements, goth makeup allows you to unleash your inner artist and embrace a captivating look that is you.
So, don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with different colors and techniques to create your own signature goth makeup style.