some selfies

Achieving striking goth makeup, especially the bold black eyeliner that's so central to the aesthetic, can be a real challenge if you have hooded eyes. I know the struggle firsthand! For years, I battled with eyeliner disappearing, smudging, or just not looking as dramatic as I wanted. But through a lot of trial and error, I've discovered some game-changing techniques that I'm excited to share with you. My journey to mastering goth eyeliner for hooded eyes started with understanding a few key principles. First, traditional winged liner often gets lost in the fold. That's why I swear by a slightly modified technique, sometimes called a 'batwing' liner or a more graphic approach. Instead of drawing a straight line from the inner corner, I focus on creating the flick first, extending it outwards and slightly upwards from my lower lash line, then connecting it back to my upper lash line, forming a triangular shape. When my eyes are open, it looks like a perfect, sharp wing, but when my eyes are closed, it might have a slight dip – and that's totally normal for hooded eyes! This method ensures the dramatic eye makeup is visible even when my lid is covered. Another trick I've found indispensable is tightlining the upper waterline. This makes my lashes look thicker and my eyes more defined without taking up precious lid space. For a really intense look, I also use a black kohl pencil on my lower waterline. When it comes to products, a good liquid eyeliner with a fine, flexible brush tip is essential for precision, especially when you're working with the unique contours of hooded eyes. I also keep a gel liner pot and an angled brush handy for smoking out the lower lash line or creating a softer, smudged effect. Beyond the eyeliner, the entire goth makeup look comes together with other elements. I always pair my bold black eyeliner with a rich, dark lipstick – whether it's a deep burgundy, a vampy plum, or classic black. To achieve that high-contrast, pale filter sort of aesthetic, I opt for a pale foundation and set it with a translucent powder. Contouring can also play a huge role in shaping the face and enhancing the dramatic effect. To complete the gothic vibe, I often wear my curly hair down, framing my face, and sometimes add glasses, which just adds another layer of mystique to the overall appearance. Don't be afraid to experiment with different textures and finishes in your makeup to find what best suits your personal style and makes your hooded eyes truly pop!