Rosalía and Charli XCX have adopted versions of the trend.
Soft goth makeup is making a stunning comeback in 2025, captivating beauty lovers across red carpets, runways, and social media feeds.
After years dominated by radiant, dewy “clean girl” looks, this aesthetic offers something refreshingly different.
It’s sultry yet soft, romantic yet rebellious, and endlessly adaptable for every skin tone.
The look reimagines 90s grunge with modern polish, celebrating contrast and individuality.
For South Asians, especially, its rich tones and flexible finishes make it both flattering and expressive.
What’s driving the renewed obsession with this moody yet wearable trend?
Why Soft Goth Is Trending Again
The rise of soft goth makeup signals a shift from glossy perfection toward something rawer and more emotive.
Beauty enthusiasts are embracing this nuanced aesthetic as a reflection of deeper self-expression.
After years of luminous, minimalist trends, people are craving makeup that tells a story rather than conceals one.
Influences from pop culture have also fuelled its return, from Netflix’s Wednesday starring Jenna Ortega to musicians like Billie Eilish and Rosalía.
Their undone yet deliberate makeup looks embody a moody glamour that feels current and cinematic.
On TikTok, creators are translating that appeal into wearable tutorials, showcasing softly blended shadows, smudged lips, and real skin texture that celebrates imperfection.
Signature Elements of Soft Goth
At the heart of soft goth makeup lies balance, structured yet effortless, mysterious yet refined.
Skin is often matte or satin-finished, skipping bronzer-heavy techniques for a more porcelain or velvety look.
Cheekbones and jawlines are sculpted using cool-toned contour products that add definition without warmth.
Eyes take centre stage with blended grey, plum, or espresso shadows, paired with a hint of inner-corner shimmer for dimension.
Lips lean towards greige, berry, or deep wine shades, applied with a blurred edge that softens the intensity.
Textured brows and understated blush complete the aesthetic, ensuring the overall vibe remains romantic rather than theatrical.
Celebrity and Social Media Influence
Celebrities have been pivotal in transforming soft goth into a mainstream beauty statement.
Jenna Ortega’s red carpet looks and Billie Eilish’s editorial makeup moments embody the perfect mix of softness and rebellion.
Rosalía and Charli XCX have also adopted versions of the trend, combining it with modern glam for high-fashion allure.
These icons’ influence extends far beyond film and music, inspiring millions through beauty campaigns and live appearances.
Social media, particularly TikTok, has accelerated its appeal, with countless tutorials breaking down the look for everyday wear.
By simplifying techniques and embracing imperfection, creators have made soft goth accessible for anyone seeking a dramatic yet wearable edge.
Adapting Soft Goth for South Asians
For South Asians, soft goth makeup offers room for creativity and personalisation.
Instead of reaching for pale foundations, opting for cool or olive undertones ensures depth without dullness.
Deep plums, brick reds, and espresso lip shades complement golden and warm complexions beautifully when applied in a blurred or stained finish.
Smoky eyes in charcoal, deep green, or navy add dimension while enhancing almond, monolid, or hooded eye shapes.
A touch of shimmer in the inner corner can brighten the look without disrupting the moody aesthetic.
Minimal blush or soft mauve tones can balance the face while keeping the overall vibe mysterious yet natural.
Most importantly, letting natural texture and individuality shine reinforces the trend’s authenticity.
Key Takeaway
Soft goth’s revival represents more than a passing beauty fad.
It’s a reflection of cultural mood and emotional honesty.
This trend celebrates the interplay between vulnerability and strength, darkness and romance.
Its adaptability makes it ideal for both minimalists and maximalists, offering endless opportunities for self-expression.
For South Asians, it’s an empowering canvas that highlights natural depth, warmth, and individuality.
The return of soft goth is ultimately a celebration of beauty with attitude, moody, timeless, and unapologetically confident.
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