The gothic look is back in a big way and with Halloween just around the corner who can resist a look from the dark side! Emma Harrowing shows you how to get the look.

Forget ghoulish white makeup and an air of depression, the goth look is back but this time it's all about romance.

Velvet, long skirts, maxi dresses, tight bodices and flickers of lace graced the AW10 catwalks and now this opulent trend has hit the high street.

It's a simple trend to follow. Get a black velvet dress, dark fur coat, leather peep-toe boots and a long metallic necklace; it's all about layering a look with different textures.

You also don't have to stick to the traditional goth uniform of black, this is goth 2010 style so make sure you add burgundy and purple too.

Another long-established rule that needs to be broken if you really want to achieve the modern goth look is to wear a low-cut dress or top, which is perfect for this autumn's obsession with the cleavage; or wear a short skirt or a pair of black or velvet shorts with opaque tights (or if you really want to follow the fashion tribe a pair of lacy tights) and show a bit of leg.

Yes ladies, for this season's goth look it's no longer a sin to show a bit of flesh. Making the most of your figure is the key to wearing this look well and the curvier you are the better.

While you think about vamping up your look for autumn spare a thought for your feet. Gone are the days when you would just throw on a pair of biker boots or Doc Martin's, if you want the modern goth look go for a pair of velvet or suede courts, lace and leather shoe boots or some slashed heels – and remember your colour palette of black, red or purple.

For your makeup, put down the pale face powder and wear a foundation that matches your skin tone so that you can create a flawless base. Groom your eyebrows, paint your lips red and keep your eyes neutral with a little bit of mascara. Then paint on the black nail polish and you're ready for a night or even a day out.