15 Trad Goth Eye Makeup Looks That Will Make You the Center of Attention

Are you looking to dive into the world of traditional goth eye makeup but not sure where to start?

Do you find yourself wondering how to achieve that dramatic, dark, and mysterious look that perfectly captures the essence of Gothic style?

Maybe you’re curious about how to blend classic goth elements with your unique twist. Well, you’re in the right place!

I’ve put together a list of 15 amazing traditional goth eye makeup ideas to help you get inspired and perfect your look.

Whether you’re new to goth makeup or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, these suggestions are sure to spark your creativity and help you master the art of traditional goth eye makeup.

Let’s dive in!

What is Trad Goth Makeup?

Trad Goth makeup is a distinctive style that originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s, closely associated with the gothic subculture and its music scene.

“Trad” stands for “traditional,” reflecting the classic elements that define this makeup style.

Here’s what typically characterizes Trad Goth makeup:

Key Features of Trad Goth Makeup:

1. Dramatic Eyes: The eyes are the focal point in Trad Goth’s makeup. This often includes heavy, dark eyeliner, bold eyeshadow in black or deep hues, and exaggerated winged liner. Smokey eyes and intricate designs, like spider webs or bat wings, are also common.
2. Pale Complexion: A very pale or even white base makeup is used to create a stark contrast with the dark eye and lip makeup. This look often includes matte foundation and powder.
3. Dark Lips: Black or deep red lipstick is a staple in Trad Goth makeup. The lips are usually sharply defined and matte, adding to the overall dramatic effect.
4. Eyebrows: Eyebrows are typically darkened and often sharply defined. In some variations, they might be reshaped or extended to create a more dramatic look.
5. Accents and Details: Trad Goth makeup might also include additional details such as gothic symbols, lace patterns, or small designs drawn around the eyes or on the face using eyeliner.

Inspirations and Influences

Trad Goth makeup draws heavy inspiration from gothic rock and post-punk bands like Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, and The Cure.

Siouxsie Sioux, in particular, is a significant influence, known for her dramatic eye makeup and bold fashion choices.

The style also incorporates elements from Victorian and Edwardian fashion, as well as from horror and gothic literature.

Achieving the Trad Goth Look

To achieve a Trad Goth makeup look, you’ll need a few key products:

• Matte foundation in a shade lighter than your natural skin tone.
• Black eyeliner (liquid or pencil) for creating bold lines and intricate designs.
• Dark eyeshadow palettes with shades of black, grey, and deep colors like burgundy or purple.
• Black or dark red lipstick, preferably matte.
• Mascara and false lashes enhance the dramatic eye effect.

Trad Goth makeup is about embracing darkness, mystery, and a touch of theatricality.

15 Trade Goth Eye Makeup Ideas

1. Classic Smokey Eye with Winged Liner

If you’re looking for that timeless goth look, the classic smokey eye with winged liner is a must-try. Start by blending dark black eyeshadow into grey on your lids.

The secret to nailing this look is in the blending—soft and seamless. Finish with a sharp, extended winged eyeliner for that dramatic flair.

Don’t forget to heavily coat your lashes with mascara to add volume and intensity.

Bold black eyebrows will frame your eyes perfectly, completing this iconic gothic look. It’s bold, dramatic, and perfect for any gothic occasion.

2. Gothic Cut Crease

Ever tried a cut crease? It’s a game-changer, especially with a gothic twist. Begin with deep black eyeshadow on your lids.

Use a white eyeshadow or eyeliner to create a sharp cut crease that contrasts beautifully with the black. Define the crease with black eyeliner to make it pop.

Smudge some dark shadow along your lower lash line for that extra drama.

This look is all about precision and contrast, making your eyes the center of attention. It’s a striking look that’s sure to turn heads.

3. Spider Web Liner

Want to add some spooky flair to your makeup? Try the spider web liner. Start with black eyeshadow on your lids.

Then, using black eyeliner, draw a spider web design extending from the outer corner of your eye.

Keep the rest of your eye makeup dark and mysterious to let the web stand out.

This design is perfect for Halloween or any time you want to add a little extra creepiness to your look. It’s creative, fun, and unique.

4. Bat Wing Eyeliner

Take your classic winged liner to the next level with a bat wing design. Apply your usual black eyeliner, but extend it into a bat wing shape at the outer corner of your eye.

Pair it with dark eyeshadow on your lids and lower lash line for that true gothic vibe. Add long, voluminous lashes to make your eyes pop.

This look is perfect for adding a touch of gothic elegance to your everyday style or for special occasions where you want to stand out.

5. White and Black Dual Eyeshadow

For a truly striking look, try the white and black dual eyeshadow. Cover one eyelid in black eyeshadow and the other in white.

This creates a stark, eye-catching contrast that’s perfect for making a statement. Finish with dramatic winged eyeliner and dark lashes to complete the look.

This makeup is all about balance and contrast, showcasing your bold and creative side. It’s a daring look that’s sure to get noticed.

6. Victorian Lace Design

Add a touch of elegance to your gothic makeup with a Victorian lace design. Start with black eyeshadow on your lids.

Then, using black and white eyeliners, draw an intricate lace pattern over the eyeshadow. Extend the design slightly above your crease for added drama.

This look is perfect for formal gothic events or when you want to showcase your artistic skills. It’s delicate, detailed, and absolutely beautiful.

7. Gothic Glitter Smokey Eye

Who says goth can’t sparkle? Try a gothic glitter smokey eye for a bit of glam. Begin with a black smokey eye, then add a touch of black glitter to the center of your lids.

This adds dimension and a subtle sparkle that’s perfect for nighttime events. Finish with bold black eyeliner and heavily mascara-coated lashes.

It’s a perfect blend of dark and dazzling, adding a bit of mystery and magic to your look.

8. Dark Red Accents

For a look that’s both bold and beautiful, incorporate dark red accents into your makeup. Start with black eyeshadow on your lids and blend deep red into your crease and outer corners.

This combination creates a rich, intense look that’s perfect for any gothic occasion. Add bold black winged liner and a touch of red on your lower lash line for extra drama.

This look is all about blending and bold colors, making your eyes the focus of your gothic style.

9. Skull Eye Design

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a skull eye design? Start with black eyeshadow on your lids. Then, using white eyeliner, draw a detailed skull design over the eyeshadow.

Extend the design from your lid to your brow bone for a truly haunting effect.

This look is perfect for Halloween or any time you want to embrace your dark side. It’s intricate, bold, and eye-catching.

10. Gothic Cat Eye

The Cat Eye is a classic for a reason, and with a gothic twist, it’s even more stunning. Create a dramatic cat eye with exaggerated wings using black eyeliner and eyeshadow.

Sharply define the inner corners for a fierce, feline look. Pair with long, voluminous lashes to complete the effect.

This look is perfect for adding a touch of gothic elegance to your everyday style. It’s bold, dramatic, and always in vogue.

11. Black and Silver Smokey Eye

For a look that’s both dark and dazzling, try a black and silver smokey eye. Apply black eyeshadow to your lids and blend into silver towards your brow bone.

Smoke out your lower lash line with black for added drama. Finish with bold black eyeliner to tie the look together.

This makeup is perfect for evening events or any time you want to add a touch of glamour to your gothic style. It’s sophisticated, striking, and sure to turn heads.

12. Grunge Goth Look

If you love a messy, lived-in look, the grunge goth eye makeup is for you. Smudge black eyeshadow around your eyes, creating a grungy, rock-and-roll vibe.

Apply thick, smudged eyeliner and heavy mascara to your lashes. This look is all about embracing imperfection and adding a bit of edge to your style.

It’s perfect for concerts, parties, or any time you want to showcase your rebellious side. It’s effortlessly cool and undeniably gothic.

13. Vampire Inspired

Channel your inner vampire with this intense makeup look. Start with dark black eyeshadow on your lids and add red accents in the inner and outer corners.

This combination creates a rich, blood-like effect that’s perfect for any gothic occasion. Finish with bold black winged liner and dark red contacts for an intense, vampiric gaze.

This look is all about drama and intensity, making it perfect for Halloween or any time you want to make a statement.

14. Moon and Stars

Add a touch of celestial beauty to your gothic makeup with a moon and stars design. Start with black eyeshadow on your lids.

Using silver eyeliner, draw tiny moon and star designs over the eyeshadow. This look is mystical and magical, perfect for nighttime events or any time you want to add a bit of sparkle to your style.

Pair with bold black eyeliner and long lashes to complete the effect. It’s enchanting, unique, and truly beautiful.

15. Baroque Gothic

For an ornate and elegant look, try a baroque gothic eye design. Start with black eyeshadow on your lids.

Using white and silver eyeliners, draw intricate baroque patterns over the eyeshadow. Extend the design from your lid to your brow bone for added drama.

This look is perfect for formal gothic events or any time you want to showcase your artistic skills. It’s detailed, sophisticated, and stunning.