This Halloween, it’s all about bold beauty that marries glamour with a spooky twist. Whether you’re going full gothic chic or experimenting with crystals and glitter, these looks will have you casting a spell wherever you go. Follow our experts’ insider tricks to easily craft these bewitching transformations….

Dramatic graphic eyeshadow

Nothing says Halloween glam quite like bold, graphic eyeshadow in moody hues. This season, we’re seeing everything from deep purples and eerie greens to metallic silvers that bring a supernatural vibe to your look. Sweep these shades across your lids in geometric or abstract shapes for a high-impact, editorial feel.

For some inspiration, think of Billie Eilish with her signature bold green makeup or Doja Cat’s futuristic eye looks. Experiment with layering colour and adding metallic accents for extra drama.

Top tip

For graphic eyeshadow, precision is key. Use tape or a small stencil to create sharp, clean lines. For extra depth, layer a metallic shade over your graphic shape to catch the light

Phillipa Louise, A-lister makeup artist @‌phillipalouisemakeup

Crystal & glitter embellishments

Halloween is the perfect excuse to go all out with embellishments, and this year, it’s all about adding crystals, rhinestones, and glitter to elevate your look. Whether you’re creating sparkling eyes, glitter-coated lips, or shimmering cheekbones, these touches add a hint of magic to your Halloween makeup. And we all love a sparkle, right?

Think Rihanna at the Met Gala 2022 with her dazzling crystal accents or Lady Gaga known for taking glitter and makeup to the next level on stage. These embellishments instantly turn any look into a showstopper.

Top tip

When applying glitter or crystal embellishments, use a strong adhesive like Sweed Adhesive, £10 for long-lasting hold. Place embellishments on the high points of your face (cheekbones, brow bones) for a dimensional look that pops

suggests Phillipa Louise, makeup artist

Smoky eyes & dark lips

Gothic beauty always has a moment at this time of the year- smoky, seductive eyes and deep, vampy lips never fail to impress. Opt for smudged black eyeliner, blended out with moody purples or burgundy, to create a sultry, mysterious vibe. Pair it with matte black, wine, or deep plum lips to make an even bolder statement. Channel Zoë Kravitz’s vampy red carpet looks or Lily Collins with her modern gothic vibe with her sharp, smoky eyes and deep lipstick shades.

Top tip

For smoky eyes, blend, blend, blend! Use a fluffy brush to soften the edges of your eyeshadow for a more sultry, undone look. Add a touch of shimmer in the inner corners of your eyes to open them up

Caroline Barnes, celebrity makeup artist @‌carolinebarnesmakeup

Dark & daring nails

No Halloween look is complete without the perfect set of spooky, dark-coloured nails to tie it all together. This season, moody manicures are taking over, with shades of inky black, deep plum, and midnight blue stealing the show on the likes of Dua Lipa. For an extra dose of glam, add metallic accents or subtle nail art—think crescent moons, gothic lace designs, or a hint of glitter.

Top tip

For dark nails, if you’re aiming for longevity, be sure to apply a strong base coat and topcoat. Darker shades are more prone to showing chips, so this will keep your nails looking fresh throughout the spooky season

Kirsten Hazell, founder of London Grace Nails @‌ldn_grace

The final touch

To fully capture the mood, pair your spellbinding makeup with sleek hair or messy, undone waves for a gothic-romantic contrast. Finish with a setting spray.

The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.


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