7 Black Eyeliner Ideas to Vamp Up Your Gothic Aesthetic
Whether it’s a crisp liquid wing or a chic kohl smudge, black eyeliner is a classic for a reason. It’s versatile and wearable, and it never goes out of style. Everyone has their go-to black eyeliner for when it’s time to hit the goth club, but it’s always a good time to expand your dark horizons.
Here’s a hand-picked selection of fresh eyeliner looks to fit your favorite goth aesthetic:
1. Stiletto Wing
This look is sharp and deadly, perfect for a goth punk or deathrock aesthetic. It’s also a quick and easy eyeliner application that goes from day to night with ease. A liquid eyeliner pen is ideal for creating clean, precise lines.
2. Curlicues
Whether you’re going for ancient Egyptian princess or dreamy Faerie Queen, a delicate black curlicue creates the perfect whimsigoth eye look. Use waterproof liquid or gel eyeliner for artistic swirls that won’t budge.
An eyeshadow palette in soft, dreamy colors like this one by Pixi will ignite your creativity, and metallic gold shadow is perfect for getting in touch with your inner Cleopatra.
Pair it with a bold red lip like Beso by Stila for a classic look with an edge, or go for nude lipstick to really emphasize your eyes.
3. Reverse Cat Eye
Nailing this on-trend eyeliner look is all about getting the perfect smokey edges to your under-eye wings. A kohl eyeliner pencil will deliver the silky texture and dark pigment you need to create crisp lines that are also blendable.
4. Totally Smoked
Precise eyeliner looks take patience and a steady hand, and sometimes you’re in too much of a rush to commune with the night. For those nights when you want maximum mystery with minimal fuss, try this dramatic smokey black eyeliner idea. For the perfect amount of smudge, use the best eyeliner pencil you can get your claws on—an intensely pigmented waterproof pencil like this one from Urban Decay is what we recommend.
Pair it with silky black lipstick for an unstoppable edge, or go for a surprising pop of pink.
5. The Glimmering Dark
Chunky gems can add to the elegance of this gorgeous glam goth look. Use a trusty black eyeliner pencil to outline your wing, and sweep a richly pigmented black eyeshadow like Bepholan Black Rose over the lid, finishing off with a multitude of gemstones in the color of your choice.
If you’d rather wear all-over sparkle, try NARS Nightbreed shimmering black eyeshadow for iridescent lids.
6. Dark Creases
This bold, 60s-inspired style can be as crisp or smokey as you prefer, but make sure you let it dry completely to prevent smudging. (It’s probably a good idea to break out the setting spray for this one.) Use liquid liner for cut creases that can cut glass, or black Dior Diorshow eyeliner pencil for a hazy smoked-out effect. If you’re rocking a vintage pinup or gothabilly aesthetic—to steal a line from The Cramps—you’ll tear this damn place up, little mama.
7. Liquid Lashes
A smudgy lower lash line is a classic, low-maintenance goth look, but it can get boring if you do it every day. Give it some oomph by drawing on lower lash “clumps” with black (or white!) liquid eyeliner for that haunted Victorian doll aesthetic. For an extra gothic lolita touch, use blush and highlighter to emphasize your eyes. A smear of hot pink shadow adds a surprising kick in the eye.
For an all-in-one set, the Morphe 2 Quad Goals Multi-Palette Set is the perfect mix of sugar and spice.
Love the dark wine-stained cloud lips? Try applying sheer lip stain with your fingertips from the center outward to replicate the look.
Experimentation keeps your look fresh, so indulge your inner mad scientist with these exciting eyeliner looks, and you’ll be the hottest creature on the slab.
