CHARLI XCX SAYS WITCHY STYLE IS BACK

Charli is no stranger to the goth-girl aesthetic, but last night she took the look up a notch with a custom Saint Laurent velvet two-piece. Her draped maxi was paired with a matching crop top, which had exaggerated sleeves and trailing ties – the ultimate lesson in witchy style. Meanwhile, the glam gave millennial Morticia in the best way possible. From the fashion to the face, we've broken down every aspect of Charli xcx's VMAs look so you can recreate it this season – whether you're looking for a style-forward Halloween look or getting witchy is simply on your autumn agenda.

Any head-to-toe black look is all about texture – mixing different fabrics is key to giving your outfit dimension where you lack colour. Fabrics like velvet, sheer mesh and lace are perfect for adding this richness. Ruching and draping are also great tools for bringing layers of drama and tension. And don't forget the flourishes – sequins, beads, feathers, ribbons and faux fur should all be on your moodboard.

GET THE LOOK

01: ASOS DESIGN velvet fringed maxi skirt in black, £30

02: AFRM Simone faux fur beaded lace cardigan in black, £148

03: Missyempire mesh drape detail crop top co-ord in black, £24
04: ASOS DESIGN Poppy lace corset in black, £28

Don’t believe the received wisdom about miserable goths, the magpie approach to accessorising is one of the most joyful around. Apply the same logic to bags and shoes as you do to your clothing by opting for pieces that bring an element of texture. A beaded clutch, a fringed scarf – even a velvet shoe. Don't underestimate how quickly a considered accessory will elevate your outfit.

GET THE LOOK

01: Topshop satin scarf with fringing in black, £32

02: ASOS DESIGN tie-clip in black with multi vintage charms, £16

Charli has said many times in interviews that her favourite beauty looks lean towards the dark side, with dramatically kohled eyes and smoked-out lids. Clean, liquid precision is not the name of the game here. Instead, you’ll want the hazy imperfection of pencil smudged with a finger or cotton buds. MAC’s Eye Kohl is a classic. Set it by packing on matching eye shadow or elevate the look for evening by adding something dark and glittery. Counter the wild, undone make-up with sleek, poker-straight hair and finish with high-shine gloss.

GET THE LOOK

01: MAC Eye Kohl - Smolder, £21
02: ghd Original Hair Straightener, £149

03: MAC Dazzleshadow Glitter Eye Shadow- Private Jet, £22
04: Bobbi Brown Extra Plump Lip Serum- Bare Plum, £33