Gothic eyeliner is a bold and dramatic makeup style that adds intensity and allure to any look. Known for its sharp lines, dark tones, and artistic flair, this style draws inspiration from gothic aesthetics, evoking a sense of mystery and elegance. Whether you’re preparing for a special event or simply want to experiment with a striking new look, mastering gothic eyeliner can elevate your makeup game and help you express your unique personality. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to do gothic eyeliner so that you can get back to using it in no time! So grab your tools, and let’s get started!

What is Gothic Eyeliner?
Gothic eyeliner is a bold and dramatic style of eye makeup that is rooted in the gothic subculture, known for its dark, mysterious, and edgy aesthetic. This makeup technique emphasizes sharp lines, deep black pigments, and occasionally incorporates intricate designs or smudged effects to create a hauntingly beautiful look.
Often paired with other gothic elements like dark lipstick or smoky eyes, gothic eyeliner serves as a means of self-expression, allowing individuals to channel their creativity and individuality. Its versatility makes it suitable for both subtle everyday looks and elaborate, theatrical styles.
Tools & Products You’ll Need
To achieve the perfect gothic eyeliner ideas look, having the right tools and products is essential. Start with a high-quality black eyeliner, which can be in the form of a pencil, gel, or liquid, depending on your preferred application style. A precision eyeliner brush is especially useful for creating sharp lines or intricate designs with gel liners.
For blending or smudged effects, an eyeshadow brush or a smudging tool will be invaluable. It’s also a good idea to have a black eyeshadow on hand to set the eyeliner and intensify the look. Don’t forget a steady hand and a makeup mirror with good lighting to ensure accuracy. For finishing touches, makeup remover pens or cotton swabs dipped in micellar water can help clean up any mistakes and perfect your look.

10 Steps How to Do Gothic Eyeliner
1. Start with a Clean, Matte Base
Creating the perfect Gothic eyeliner begins with preparing the canvas—your eyelids. Ensure your lids are clean and free of any oils or moisturizers, as these can cause eyeliner to smudge or fade. Apply an eyeshadow primer or a matte concealer to your eyelids to give the eyeliner something to cling to. This step not only ensures a longer-lasting finish but also helps in achieving sharp lines with better precision. A matte base accentuates the bold darkness of Gothic eyeliner, eliminating distractions caused by shine or texture.
2. Choose the Right Eyeliner Formula
Gothic eyeliner demands a rich, dark formula that delivers both intensity and durability. Gel liners are ideal for their flexibility and ease of control, while liquid eyeliners offer ultra-sharp definition for wings and intricate detailing. Pencil liners, although less precise, can be smudged for a smoky effect which also complements Gothic styles. Waterproof or long-wear formulas are highly recommended, especially if you intend to wear the look throughout the day or night. Choose a deep black, or for variation, a dark plum, charcoal gray, or even a blood-red liner for a dramatic twist.
3. Outline the Basic Shape First
Before diving into detailed strokes, sketch the basic eyeliner shape using a pencil or a fine brush dipped in gel liner. Gothic eyeliner typically involves a thick upper lash line with an extended wing, so decide the angle and height of your wing early. Some Gothic styles incorporate both upper and lower lash lines joined at the outer corners, creating a cat-like or exotic silhouette. Outlining first allows room for correction before committing to the bolder, final strokes, and it provides a visual roadmap for symmetry.
4. Create a Dramatic Wing with Precision
The wing is the focal point of any Gothic eyeliner design. To craft a dramatic wing, start from the outer corner of your eye and draw a line angled toward the end of your eyebrow. Connect this to the upper lash line, forming a sharp triangle. Fill it in with rich pigment. Depending on your mood or event, the wing can be extended nearly to the temple for a more theatrical appearance. Always use a fine-tipped brush or precision felt-tip pen to ensure clean, straight lines—wobbly wings can disrupt the drama of the look.
5. Line the Lower Lash Line Boldly
Gothic eyeliner is not confined to the top lid. Defining the lower lash line intensifies the gaze and contributes to the dark aesthetic. Use a waterproof pencil or smudge-proof gel liner to outline the entire lower lash line, connecting it to the wing on the outer corner. For added drama, extend the liner slightly past the inner corner of your eye. Some styles even include a lower wing or tear-line extension. Be careful to avoid inner-eye irritation by using a gentle, ophthalmologist-tested product.

6. Experiment with Double Wings or Graphic Lines
Elevate your Gothic eyeliner by introducing layered wings or graphic designs. Double wings, where one line shoots up and another down from the outer corner, create a uniquely edgy appearance. Graphic lines such as zigzags, cross-hatching, or lace-inspired curves above the crease can be incorporated for an avant-garde Gothic finish. These designs work especially well for events, photoshoots, or festivals. Use a highly pigmented liquid liner and a steady hand—or eyeliner stencils if you are a beginner.
7. Smudge for a Smoky Gothic Look
For those who favor a less structured, more rebellious aesthetic, smudging is your ally. Apply pencil liner generously on both the upper and lower lash lines, then use a smudging brush or cotton swab to blend the edges outward. This technique creates a shadowy, haunted effect that pairs well with dark eyeshadow or black mascara. A smoky Gothic eye speaks of mystery and melancholy, leaning more toward romantic or Victorian Gothic expressions rather than the graphic, high-fashion look.
8. Use Eyeshadow to Set and Soften
Setting your eyeliner with a matte black or dark eyeshadow not only increases longevity but also enhances the color intensity. Use an angled brush to press black shadow over the liner gently. This technique softens any harsh lines and prevents creasing or transfer. For a more multi-dimensional look, blend charcoal or deep burgundy shadows into the crease and outer corners of your eyes, fading outward. The result is a more cohesive Gothic eye that balances structure with depth.

9. Pair with False Lashes and Mascara
To complete the Gothic eyeliner look, bold lashes are essential. After applying your eyeliner, curl your natural lashes and apply a thick coat of volumizing black mascara. For added drama, use spiky or feathered false lashes to draw attention to your eyes. Ensure the lash band doesn’t cover the intricate eyeliner work—use a thin, clear adhesive and place them just above your natural lash line. The combination of exaggerated liner and dark lashes creates a captivating, otherworldly effect.
10. Clean Up and Define with Concealer
The final step in perfecting your Gothic eyeliner is clean-up. Use a flat concealer brush with a small amount of foundation or concealer to sharpen the edges of your wings and remove any smudges or uneven strokes. This clean-up defines the shape, adds contrast, and elevates the overall finish. It also helps correct any asymmetry between the eyes. Finish by setting your under-eye area with translucent powder to prevent smearing and maintain the look’s sharpness throughout the day.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Achieving the perfect Gothic eyeliner look can take practice, but understanding common issues can save time and frustration. One frequent problem is unsteady lines or shaky hands. To address this, rest your elbow on a flat surface while applying eyeliner for more stability, and use short, controlled strokes instead of trying to draw a single, long line.
Smudging is another common concern, especially if you have oily lids. Combat this by applying an eyeshadow primer beforehand and setting your eyeliner with a matching eyeshadow shade. Lastly, uneven wings can happen to anyone. Step back from the mirror periodically to check symmetry, and remember that a small concealer brush can be your best friend for correcting and refining your lines. With patience and these tips, you’ll master the Gothic eyeliner look in no time.

Conclusion
Creating Gothic eyeliner is both an art and a personal statement. Each stroke should be intentional, bold, and true to the look you want to achieve—whether it’s soft and smoldering or sharp and theatrical. By following these ten methods, you can create a range of Gothic eyeliner styles that suit every occasion, mood, or expression of your dark aesthetic. With the right tools, techniques, and a steady hand, your eyeliner can transform not just your eyes, but your entire look, allowing your inner goth to shine through in confident style. Now that you know how to do gothic eyeliner, try it yourself today and feel good about completing such a big DIY job!
About the Author
Jane Hubbard is a passionate beauty expert with a wealth of experience in makeup, hair, and overall beauty techniques. After years of working as a hairdresser specialist, she followed her entrepreneurial spirit and started her own consultancy business.
Jane has always been driven by her desire to help others feel confident in their own skin, and she does this by sharing her knowledge, experiences, and practical beauty tips. Through her consultancy, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique beauty, offering tailored guidance that boosts both self-esteem and personal style.
Professional Focus
- Specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Provides personalized beauty advice, tips, and techniques to help individuals feel confident in their appearance.
- Dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments.
- Passionate about creating a comfortable and empowering experience for every client.
Education History
- University of Craft and Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Woodworking and Furniture Design
- Woodworking Apprenticeships – Extensive hands-on training with skilled craftsmen to refine carpentry and furniture making techniques
- Online Courses & Masterclasses – Continued education in advanced woodworking techniques, design principles, and specialized tools
Expertise:
- Makeup artistry, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Personalized beauty techniques to enhance confidence and self-expression.
- Educating clients on how to maintain their beauty routines at home.