by Freyda Tartak

Created on: December 13, 2011   Last Updated: December 18, 2011

Gothic fashion is as much about raw sensuality as it is about understated elegance. The simplicity of simple, straight black lines, accented by silver and deep, dark colours such as red, burgundy and purple seethe of regal self confidence. To carry off goth in any way you have to begin with wearing it with pride.

To incorporate gothic fashion items into a day-to-day wardrobe it is important to keep in mind what sort of environment you spend your time in. If it in school, you can get away with anything. At work, you may need to tone it down in order to fit into the corporate culture.

One way to easily incorporate gothic style is through the jewellery. Rings, are a key element in gothic style and they come in a variety of understated to outright grotesque. As long as you feel comfortable with it on, you'll be able to carry it off. Pendants are also a great way to add a touch of goth into a wardrobe.

Another staple in goth wear are black leather boots. These work on many levels and can add a feeling of control and power without being overpowering. The style of heal necessitates a certain posture and has an overall impact on mood. Even if the rest of the outfit is completely conventional, the right shoes will remind you that there is a you beyond the circumstances in which you find yourself.

Makeup is another great way to incorporate gothic style into a daily wardrobe. A great place to start is at the MAC cosmetics counter. An even better place to start is on their website. Pale skin with charcoal shades on the eyes, bright red lips and a touch of peach blush is all it takes. If you can carry it off, black hair is a fantastic way to tie it all in together.

True goth though is about cleanliness. It is about austerity and minimalism. Clean, properly manicured nails with either black nail polish or a clear coat is essential. If the hands aren't done, you can't pull the look off.

For ladies, a lacy black or white camisole that peaks out from a  tailored jacket is permissible as the only frill. For guys, lacy cuffs can be permissible under certain circumstances but generally speaking it is about an effeminate masculinity. Simple, clean lines with minimal use of color and silver accents are the key defining characteristics and the rest is all personal choice.

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