We’ve still got a few weeks of winter left before spring makeup takes over “ why not embrace it with a stone-cold sexy look? Gothic makeup was all over the runway shows for this winter. And no, we don’t mean you should dig out the white stage makeup and black hair dye from your life’s not fair!’ phase “ a few gothic touches will add some edge to your look for your next little black dress event, as long as you scale it down a notch.
Here’s how to get in touch with your dark side (sparkly vampire boyfriend not included):
Face
Matte foundation is a must (but don’t bother trying a shade lighter than your natural skin tone). Dust over it with a loose powder and skip your usual bronzer or blush “ California girl and gothic vamp are two looks that just don’t mix.
Eyes
Kohl-rimmed eyes give this look its oomph (and there’s no need to spend hours trying to get a perfect cat eye “ so feel free to get a bit smudged). Build a smoky eye with a small eyeshadow brush and use various shades of grey all the way up to the eyebrow for a smoldering gaze. If you want a more daring look, try a burgundy shadow instead.
And as usual, if you’re planning on rocking a dark lip, balance things out by keeping your eyes simple with just basic black liner or a wash of grey shadow.
Lips
Give the classic gothic black lips a more wearable update with a hint of colour. The lipstick should have either purple or red tones, or you can try layering a plummy lip colour with a shot of black gloss over top. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth investing in a black lip gloss, rest assured: it doesn’t look like this trend is going away next winter, either. It’s a look that shouldn’t work but somehow does.
If you’re focusing on your eyes, leave your lips nude (minus the gloss) for a slightly ethereal, chilling effect.
Hair
Accessorize this look with a suitably serious ‘do (a pony-tail will definitely compromise your attempt at edginess). Try either dead-straight strands with a centre part or a messy, curly up-do a la Helena Bonham Carter for more of a romantic gothic feel.
