Mastering Halloween Chic: Get the Minimalist but Goth Look
On 10/10/23 // Beauty
Halloween is just around the corner and while some enjoy going all out, others prefer to keep things simple. If you’re someone who doesn’t like the gothic aesthetic but still want to join in the fun, then we’ve got you covered. As a high profile beauty editor, I understand the struggle of creating a minimalist Halloween makeup look. That’s why in this post, I’m going to give you some tips on how to pull off a Halloween-appropriate minimalist makeup look. Get ready to look spooky yet chic!
How to Pull Off a Halloween Minimalist Makeup Look
Start with a Classic Base:
Unless you have perfect skin, minimalism probably already doesn’t mean no makeup to you. It’s always better to add a bit of foundation or at least a blur primer and a concealer to even out your skin tone, especially if you’re planning to put on some flesh-toned and contrasting colors. It’s a way to make your skin into a clean canvas, which is always a good starting point.
Less is more in this case, and obviously your work will go much easier if you have good skincare habits.
You might want to use concealer under the eyes to create an even base, but you also might choose not to. It’s Halloween, darker under-eye area can very well be part of the vibe.
Photo: Kelsy Karter photographed by Melanie Lehman for Principle magazine
Go for Dark Lips:
If you’re not into dramatic fake blood makeup art, but you still want the goth vibe, then dark-colored lips are a great option. A deep burgundy or a black cherry lipstick has that vampy yet minimalist effect.
Keep the rest of the makeup simple by going for a light blush or a flicked eyeliner, so your lips stand out. Glossy lipsticks are perfect for creating a dramatic fleshy look, and you can also use a dark lip liner to define your lips for a bit of a retro effect.
IG @raquelsmx wearing @ciatelondon royal wonderwand lipstick
Get Graphic with the Eyeliner:
Eyeliner is the ultimate minimalist makeup tool that can create a bold statement with a single stroke…Well, not actually with a single stroke but with what might look like a single stroke.
Makeup by IG @deanfournier
Go for a graphic shape such as a longer-than-usual feline flick, or add a spooky twist. Add a batwing point or a couple of graveyeard crosses for an edgier look. This might take a bit of practice, try it out first a few days ahead.
Use a waterproof liquid eyeliner to make the lines and shapes more graphic and precise on your eye area to get that Halloween feel. Finish up with a setting spray.
Add Tiny Bit of Fake Blood:
Fske blood is a bit dramatic and not everyone’s idea of a minimalist makeup. Either way, if you’re into DIY, then try creating your fake blood using corn syrup and food coloring.
Apply the blood to the corners of your mouth, or let it drip down from your lower lip for a gruesome Halloween makeup look.
You can also add some red to your eyes. Try applying a colored eyeliner on your waterline to create that dramatic effect of “just rose from a grave and the light hurts”.
Get the Graveyard Pallor without White Paint:
If you’re looking to create a Halloween makeup look that exudes a really subtle graveyeard vibe without relying on the classic white paint, try just a regular foundation that is a bit too light for skin. Embracing a more natural approach to achieving that “just risen from the grave” effect can yield pretty good results.
Photo: Ales Shing from Uno models photographed by Sheila Velasco
Opt for a lighter foundation, blending it in really well for an even look. To finish the touch of deathly pallor, softly dust a cool-toned translucent powder over your face, focusing on the areas where naturally you would apply blush or bronzer.
The pale skin looks well if you enhance your eyes with smoky shades of gray and brown, adding depth and intensity all around the eye. Make smoky eye makeup look fairly worn and smudged.
Complete the “risen from grave” look with a pale lip color to maintain the slightly sick look.
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Did I manage to convince you? You don’t need to go overboard to have a great Halloween makeup look; minimalist options work just as well. By following these tips, you can create a spooky but chic makeup look without sacrificing the simplicity of your preferred style. Remember, less is more, and you can still join in on the fun. Have a happy and delightful Halloween!
