It’s Halloween time and with all the popularity of Vampires and other Gothic themed characters I have been looking into how to create the ultimate Gothic look. I want to create a look that is very attention-getting and definitely not the norm, which is sort of what the point of Gothic is all about.

The Gothic look is created with very dark clothing, often constructed out of unusual fabrics and materials that are different than the traditional cotton fabrics of normal street wear. These fabrics include velvet, lace, vinyls, and sometimes even metal-plated fabrics. Gothic-wear can be very sexual, especially with the use of bustiers, corsets and other figure enhancing clothing items beyond just Halloween costumes. These pieces are especially Gothic with laced up dark fabrics, often accented in red or white. Various skull prints can be used as well to create a truly horrific, Goth look. Temporary tattoos are a great way to toughen up the outfit as well, so use them!

Accessories are very important to a true Gothic dresser. These can include things such as spiked goggles, cuffs, crucifixes, bracelets, etc. One of the most important accessories for the Gothic look is found in the application of make -up. Generally speaking, a very pale skin look is desired, with dark smoky eyes and deep colored lipstick. The eye make-up look is accomplished by using deep grey or black eye shadow blended into the eye area. Make sure and blend eye shadow underneath your eyes for that truly gaunt, smoky look. A little black liner can add further definition. Finish the look off with deep red, almost black lipstick. If you are feeling extra bold, dark black hair with colored streaks is the ultimate accessory to complete your delve into utter Gothic-ness. You have to decide how far you want to take it because hair color is a big commitment!

The look is pretty bold, but the central theme of the Gothic look is about rejecting the mainstream and using fashion to express oneself in an extreme, attention-getting way. It’s also about being an uncommon individual and not being afraid to express oneself with intense fashion. Whether you just dress up for the night or if you make this a look yours for everyday, have fun with it and enjoy the beauty of being uniquely Gothic you!