‘I Put 3 Goth Beauty Looks to the Test—Here’s What Happened’

For my last act, I decided to take it all the way with a liquid-black lip. I’d never used a lip color darker than deep red or purple, so this was definitely out of my usual comfort zone. Because my boyfriend is extremely familiar with my usual look, who better to surprise than him? I carefully put the lipstick on, topped it with clear gloss, and swiped a little of the gloss over my eyelids for good, slick measure. I then entered the living room and braced for a strong reaction. It never came. In response to a pretty standard “that’s different,” I asked what he thought and whether he’d be more or less likely to approach me than usual. He replied, “It doesn’t really make a difference. Everything else on your face is the same.” Maybe he was just playing it careful. Maybe I was just giving a lip shade too much credit. One thing’s for sure, though: I was more afraid of smudging this color or getting it on anything (or anyone, such as said boyfriend) than I’ve ever been with any other lip product I’ve used. I’m going to have to give this one a few more practice runs.

Get the look: MAC Liptensity Lipstick in Stallion ($21, maccosmetics.com) and MAC Lipglass in Clear ($16, maccosmetics.com)

The bottom line: Trying these “goth” looks made me feel bolder, more confident, and also somewhat more vulnerable because I was putting myself out there. While I wouldn’t rock this makeup every day of the week, I’d definitely try the deep red lip again. It allowed me to tap into my edgier side, while still managing to be somewhat girly.