Experts list 5 ways to ace Amy Lee’s Gothic style

Amy Lee’s signature Goth glam aesthetic. Pics Courtesy/Getty Images

In the early 2000s, Evanescence broke new ground by becoming one of the few Goth-rock bands to achieve mainstream popularity. Front woman Amy Lee's aesthetic inspired a whole generation of fashion lovers, who began to smoke out their eyeliner and team their distressed jeans with billowing vintage tops and laced-up boots.

Today, Lee is one of the leading sources of inspiration for e-girls, who are reviving gothic trends with a more contemporary twist, says stylist Disha Selarka. With Evanescence having recently released their studio album The Bitter Truth, Selarka and another fashion lover re-imagine Lee's signature style.

Black with textures
Lee's wardrobe features a lot of black, whether in the form of dresses, skirts, or tights, says Selarka. To keep your look from becoming too monotonous, try to incorporate different textures, whether in the form of tassels, fishnet or lace. For instance, pair a feminine black lace dress with black boots and mesh stockings. Add a bright red lip for a pop of colour. Don't forget a dramatic smoky eye and a half-up hairstyle.

Make-up mantras
While Lee's makeup features a heavily smoked-out eye and either pale or red lips, e-girls have taken the Goth make-up trend a step further. Beauty blogger Anuradha Mohan (inset) recommends focusing on blush placement - brush some on the bridge of your nose and extend to the apples of your cheeks. Wear a coral shade on your eyes, layer with winged eyeliner and dot a small heart shape under each eye.

Gothic accessories
Corset belts, oversized black bows and harnesses are a great way to jazz up a relatively simpler outfit. For instance, a light jumpsuit takes a Gothic twist when paired with a harness. Similarly, a shirt dress can be cinched in at the waist with a corset belt, while summery dresses can be paired with oversized black bows. Fingerless gloves add an element of grunge, as do motorcycle boots. Adds Selarka, "A lot of Lee's style comprises feminine clothes with a Gothic twist, which makes it relatively easy to copy."

Layer the look
Strappy lace dresses paired with a cropped denim jacket will help you stand out. The contrast of lace with denim elevates the look, while keeping your style easy and effortless. Experiment with the length and silhouette of the dresses or skirts. Asymmetrical cuts, washed out colours, pastels and nudes, and embossed or embellished fabrics are other easy ways to dress up your Gothic glam outfit, says Selarka.

Distressed fabrics
Distressed jeans are having a fashion (and feminist) moment; they form an integral part of many of Lee's off-stage looks. Choose baggier fits and roll up the hems to expose your footwear. Steer clear of sneakers and choose platform heels instead. Add a satin or a more classic top to add some visual contrast, advises Selarka. While she has layered her jeans with fishnet stockings for an even grungier look, you could pare the outfit down by skipping the stockings and wearing a simpler blouse.