11 Ways To Survive The Heat As A Summer Goth

I’ve lived most of my life as a proud summer goth — but finding tips for staying cool in the summer as a goth hasn't always been easy. Due to only owning a winter wardrobe throughout all 12 months of the year, the throbbing heat beaming down on my (once) dyed blue/black hair, and my refusal to stray from any other shade of clothing even when it comes to dressing for the warmer months, however, I’ve learned the do’s and don'ts the hard way.

You read that right: I wear my ankle boots all year round, all the while succeeding at making sure that my drawn-on eyebrows don't melt off and making fishnet tights my new best friends.

In my years as a summer goth, I've nailed down the most practical tips and tricks to make living life on the dark side in the most humid of months just that little bit easier. Let me warn you now, though: The comments you'll hear regarding your choice in attire will likely keep coming in year after year. People constantly roll their eyes at my prerogative to wear only black and (mostly) cover up in the summer months, ridiculing my style choices and questioning my decisions.

But if, like me, nothing can deflect from your love of black clothing and thick eyeliner, below are 11 ways to make the summer months more bearable.

1. Sheer Fabrics Will Be Your Savior

Shade London Sheer Mesh T-Shirt Dress, $56.61, asos.com

Your goth credentials shouldn't come under scrutiny just because it's hot outside, and sheer fabrics are perfect for projecting a witchy vibe without sweating buckets.

2. Fishnet Tights Are Your Friend

ASOS Fishnet Tights, $6.48, asos.com

For those of us who don't like to bare our legs, fishnet tights can help keep us cool in the warmest of months, with different-sized holes catering to every type of weather.

3. Give Up The Dr. Martens (For Now)

Galaxy Cosmic Gothic Print Dr Martens, $194.43, etsy.com/jflellomartinez

I know, it's tough. But in the summer months, nothing's worse than sweaty feet. Instead, swap your beloved boots for a pair of platform sandals.

4. Buy A Hand Fan

Black Hand Fan, $10.20, etsy.com/The10thHouse

They're totally glam, and a subtle way of keeping your cool while wearing head-to-toe light-absorbing black looks.

5. Invest In Waterproof Eyeliner, Mascara, & Brow Gel

Kat Von D Immortal Lash 24 Hour Mascara, $20, sephora.com

For smoky eye and eyeliner enthusiasts, a rock-solid makeup bag stuffed with weather and waterproof products is the only way to avoid (unplanned) panda eyes.

6. If All Else Fails, Hairspray Your Makeup

Tigi Bed Head Hard Head Hairspray, $16.20, asos.com

For the most hardcore goths among us, waterproof or weatherproof makeup just isn't enough. Come those occasional moments during which you just can't afford for your makeup to budge, try spraying your finished face with hairspray — from about a foot away, of course.

7. But Don't Be Afraid To Put Down The Eyeliner Pen

Kat Von D Tattoo Liner, $20 sephora.com

Even with the most trustworthy of products, sometimes the risk of smudge is too much to bare. Going makeup-free doesn't make you any less committed to life on the dark side, though.

8. Don't Forget Sun Protection

Hampton SunContinuous Mist Sunscreen SPF 55, $32, sephora.com

When ditching your heavier blacks for sheer or fishnet fabrics, you'll need a little SPF to compensate.

9. Lose The Layers, Not The Shades Of Black

Free People Slip Dress With Lace Trim, $58.33, asos.com

No matter how many times people tell me that black absorbs the light and inevitably keeps me warmer in the heat, I don't fully believe them. By sticking to light fabrics and clever cuts, I've come to learn that black doesn't have to mean boiling.

10. Rock An Oversized Band Tee

I'm Not OK (I Promise) Unisex Tee, $29.77, etsy.com/ABVHVN

Your band tees bought at the merch table are as perfect as oversized dresses for the summer sun. The loose nature of the style will keep you extra cool.

11. Make The Shade Come To You With A Parasol

ASOS Umbrella In Black With Skull Handle, $25.92, www.asos.com

Make use of your umbrella (and remain prepared for unexpected downpours) by bringing the shade with you wherever you may go.

So go forth and prosper, my fellow summer goths — and know I've always got your black-clothed back.

Images: Columbia Pictures (1); Courtesy Brands (11)