How to Do Goth Makeup

Makeup is a key element of the goth subculture. In a world of outsiders, most everything goes, and looks range from the understated to the outlandish. Part of being goth is being yourself, so experiment with cosmetics to achieve the look that most accurately represents you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Get foundation and powder that is one or two shades lighter than your natural skin tone. The goal is to look pale, not unnaturally white. Apply foundation first, then add powder as needed.

2. Apply dark eyeshadow. For men, a light application of grey, black, brown or deep red works best. Women should apply eyeshadow more heavily, mixing dark hues to achieve contour and drama.

3. Use dark liner to add extra drama and flare to your eyes. Black liquid eyeliner is popular, but rich jewel tones and white work well, too. If you use the liner to draw around the eye, stay away from uninspired designs like spiderwebs. Be original.

4. Finish the eyes with heavy mascara. If your liner and shadow are grey or black, consider red or blue mascara for contrast. If your lashes are lacking, use quality fake lashes.

5. Add the finishing touches. Paint your nails to match your lip color, carefully tweeze your eyebrows to achieve an arch and apply contour makeup to emphasize your bone structure.

6. Line your lips and apply matching matte lipstick. Black and blood red are standard, but dark shades of blue and purple also complement the goth look quite well.

Tips & Warnings

• If you must shimmer, highlight eyes with glittery shadows in metallic tones and make lips shine with dark lip gloss. The point is not to be like everyone else, so be true to your own style.
• Remember to extend foundation and powder below the jaw line and down the neck. If baring a lot of skin, consider applying makeup to all exposed areas to avoid a patchwork look.
• Hair color is a staple of any goth beauty maintenance kit. Use temporary color so you can try out new looks every few months. If you have naturally light hair and eyes, auburn and deep burgundy may look better than jet black.

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