Gothic Darling

Welcome to Gothic Fashion and Culture from New Orleans. Some links on this site are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. I only share products I genuinely love or use myself. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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  • How to Decorate a Gothic Baby Nursery

    Creating a Gothic baby nursery is a chance to blend vintage elegance, mysterious charm, and enchanting fantasy into a cozy, nurturing space. Whether you’re inspired by vampire romance, Victorian architecture, or moody Halloween tones, the key is to make the room feel both dramatic and comforting. With the right furniture, lighting, and finishing touches, your little one’s room can look like it came straight out of a dark fairy tale — with bats, moons, and gentle glows that soothe rather than spook.

    Get everything you need to decorate your gothic baby nursery from Amazon #ad

    🖤 How to Decorate a Gothic Baby Nursery (Complete Guide)

    Transform your baby’s room into a Gothic dreamland with black cribs, velvet curtains, purple lights, and vampire-inspired décor. Learn how to create a Gothic baby nursery that feels darkly elegant, cozy, and magical.

    🌙 Introduction: The Magic of a Gothic Baby Nursery

    Designing a Gothic baby nursery is all about blending dark elegance with comfort and creativity. Instead of the typical pastel palette, a Gothic nursery embraces deep colors, luxurious fabrics, and enchanting lighting that feel both mysterious and soothing. Think of it as a fairytale castle or vampire manor — but made soft, safe, and dreamy for your little one.

    Whether you’re inspired by Victorian romance, Halloween aesthetics, or celestial moonlight, this guide will show you how to decorate a Gothic baby nursery with everything you need — from the perfect black crib to the softest velvet curtains and glowing bat mobiles.

    🏰 The Crib: The Centerpiece of the Gothic Nursery

    Every nursery begins with a crib — and for a Gothic theme, black or deep mahogany wood is the perfect foundation. Look for cribs with ornate carvings, wrought iron scrollwork, or coffin-inspired silhouettes for dramatic effect. Add a touch of luxury with velvet or satin crib bedding in colors like deep purple, burgundy, or midnight blue. To enhance the mood, place sheer black lace drapery or a canopy above the crib, glowing softly under purple LED strip lights hidden along the frame. This becomes the nursery’s focal point, embodying the perfect blend of dark beauty and cozy comfort.

    The crib is the heart of your Gothic nursery. Choose one made from black wood, dark mahogany, or wrought iron for that vintage look. Ornate carvings or scrollwork details enhance the darkly romantic feel. Add satin or velvet crib bedding in deep purple, burgundy, or midnight blue, and complete the look with a black lace canopy for drama and comfort.

    Pro Tip: Soft purple or amber LED lights hidden behind the canopy create a glowing, otherworldly effect that makes bedtime magical.

    🕸️ What You’ll Need:

    • Black or mahogany crib
    • Velvet or satin bedding set
    • Sheer lace canopy
    • Purple LED light strips
    • Bat or moon-themed crib mobile

    Shop Black Cribs on Amazon #ad

    🕯️ Curtains and Lighting: Soft Shadows and Glowing Mystique

    Lighting defines the Gothic mood. Replace bright overhead lights with chandeliers, candelabra-style lamps, or black lanterns fitted with soft amber or purple bulbs. Consider stringing fairy lights or dimmable LEDs behind sheer curtains to create a gentle ethereal glow. For the windows, heavy velvet drapes in black or deep red not only block light for naps but also add that regal, old-world touch. Layer lace panels underneath for a romantic contrast, and tie them back with silver bat or moon-shaped curtain holders for that perfect Gothic baby vibe. Also makes it better for the baby to sleep in darker room.

    🕸️ What You’ll Need:

    • Black velvet curtains
    • Sheer lace curtain panels
    • Purple or amber LED bulbs
    • Gothic chandelier or lanterns
    • Fairy lights or candelabra lamp

    Find Black Curtains on Amazon #ad

    🌙 Walls and Color Palette: Deep, Dreamy, and Enchanting

    A Gothic nursery thrives on rich, moody tones. Paint the walls in shades like charcoal gray, midnight plum, or deep forest green. Accent walls can feature wallpaper with damask, celestial, or Victorian filigree patterns for texture and drama. Add bat decals, moon murals, or even a soft glowing star ceiling to bring in a dreamy touch. Gold or silver frames with vintage artwork — perhaps portraits of fanciful creatures or soft Gothic fairytale scenes — give the space an elevated, storybook feel.

    🕸️ What You’ll Need:

    • Dark paint (charcoal, plum, navy)
    • Damask or baroque wallpaper
    • Gold or silver frames
    • Wall decals (moons, bats, stars)
    • Glow-in-the-dark wall art or mural

    The purple glow in the dark bat with crystal hanging in the window is made by Monique Lula: Purple Bat

    🦇 Decor Accents: Bats, Moons, and Mystical Touches

    No Gothic nursery is complete without whimsical details that make it magical. Hang bat-shaped mobiles over the crib, display plush ravens, dragons, or black cats on the shelves, and add moon mirrors or stained-glass nightlights. Gothic doesn’t have to mean scary — it’s about embracing the mystical and romantic. Mix in soft textures like faux fur rugs, velvet pillows, and knitted throws in dark jewel tones. Consider a crescent moon wall shelf to hold baby books or bottles, balancing practicality with otherworldly charm.

    🕸️ What You’ll Need:

    • Bat or moon mobile
    • Crescent-moon shelf
    • Plush Gothic animals (ravens, dragons, black cats)
    • Faux fur rug or velvet throw
    • Nightlight (moon, crystal, or bat design)

    Shop Gothic Nursery Decor on Amazon #ad

    🧛‍♀️ Vampire & Victorian Themes: Elegant with a Touch of Fantasy

    If you want to lean into the vampire or Victorian style, think Baroque furniture, lace-trimmed lampshades, and ornate picture frames. Incorporate deep reds, purples, and touches of black and gold. A velvet armchair or rocking chair in the corner adds old-world sophistication and comfort for late-night feedings. You can even include a subtle coffin motif — perhaps a mini coffin-shaped toy chest or artwork — for a playful Gothic wink that parents will adore.

    🖤 Final Touches: Comfort and Personal Magic

    The secret to a great Gothic nursery is balancing drama with softness. Layer dark aesthetics with comforting elements like plush toys, soft blankets, and soothing lighting. Add personal touches — perhaps a custom name sign in Gothic calligraphy, a framed moon phase chart for your baby’s birth night, or a bat-shaped nightlight that glows gently while they sleep. The goal is to create a nursery that feels like a magical, mysterious haven — where the dark is comforting, not frightening, and every shadow holds a story.

  • How To Create a Halloween Christmas Village: A Gothic Twist on a Holiday Classic

    If you love both Halloween and Christmas, why not combine them into one enchanting tabletop display? A Halloween Christmas Village blends spooky charm with cozy holiday lights — think cobweb-covered lamp posts, black Christmas trees dusted with glitter “snow,” and ceramic houses glowing in orange, purple, and green hues. Here’s everything you need to build your own miniature Gothic town this season.

    🎃🕯️ Intro: The Magic of a Halloween Christmas Village

    There’s something irresistibly enchanting about the warm glow of a Christmas village — those tiny ceramic houses, lampposts, and snow-dusted trees that bring a touch of nostalgia to the holidays. But what if you gave that cozy winter wonderland a delightfully spooky twist? A Halloween Christmas Village is the perfect way to merge your love for eerie autumn vibes and festive holiday cheer, creating a tabletop display that feels straight out of a Tim Burton dream.

    Imagine a Gothic town square where witches string black garlands around street lamps, bats circle above frosted rooftops, and glowing pumpkins replace traditional red and green décor. It’s an otherworldly blend of Halloween’s mystery and Christmas’s warmth — a fusion that feels both magical and mischievous. Whether you’re a collector of ceramic houses, a crafter who loves DIY details, or simply someone who wants to make your holiday display stand out, this guide will help you build the ultimate Gothic Holiday Village right at home.

    🏙️ The Core Buildings of Your Gothic Village

    Every Christmas village needs a few key landmarks to feel like a real town — even a haunted one.
    Here are some must-have structures to anchor your display:

    • Town Hall or Gothic Courthouse – The centerpiece of your spooky town, with tall windows, black trim, and flickering LED lights.
    • The Bank of Shadows – A classic bank building with stone columns, gargoyle statues, and eerie lighting inside.
    • The Haunted Hotel – Essential for that eerie “Nightmare Before Christmas” vibe. Add flickering lights in the windows for a ghostly glow.
    • The Witch’s Laboratory or Alchemist’s Workshop – Replace Santa’s toy shop with a mad scientist’s lab full of bubbling potions.
    • The Pumpkin Bakery or Candy Shoppe – A cozy counterpoint to the spookiness, glowing in warm amber tones and “selling” pumpkin pastries or candy skulls.
    • The Cemetery Chapel or Mausoleum – A tiny Gothic church surrounded by miniature gravestones, perfect for dramatic lighting.

    Buy Halloween Christmas Village Buildings on Amazon #ad

    Tip: Mix ceramic Halloween village buildings with classic Christmas ones. Paint them in dark metallics, purples, blacks, and silvers to match your theme.

    🌲 Trees, Foliage, and Scenery

    One of my favorite parts of creating the village is all the little trees and tombstones and stuff you can fit just about anywhere in your design. Your landscape ties everything together. Use:

    • Black or dark green miniature Christmas trees – Flocked with “snow” (white glitter or faux frost spray).
    • Orange, purple, and green LED trees – These give a soft eerie glow that feels both festive and mysterious.
    • Creepy accessories – Tiny jack-o’-lanterns, bats, spider webs, and tombstones tucked between trees.
    • Artificial moss, snow blankets, and black felt – Layer these to create paths, graveyard grounds, or foggy areas.

    Find Christmas Village Trees on Amazon #ad

    Tip: Mix materials with different textures — velvet snowcloth next to rough moss looks stunning under fairy lights.

    🕯️ Lighting the Village

    Get creative with all the little street lamps and village parts that make up the lighting of your town. Lighting is the secret to making your village feel alive.

    Use a mix of:

    • Battery-operated LED tea lights inside each house.
    • Fairy light strands in purple, orange, or warm white for rooftops and trees.
    • Spotlights or blacklights behind key buildings for dramatic effect.
    • Flicker bulbs in lampposts for an old-world, candle-lit atmosphere.

    Get Christmas Village Lights on Amazon #ad

    Tip: Hide wires using cotton “fog” or shredded black tulle for a clean, mystical setup.

    🧙 Characters and Town Details

    A town feels alive when you populate it with spooky citizens and fun details:

    • Gothic carolers, witches, vampires, skeletons, and black cats make perfect villagers.
    • Add a mini pumpkin patch, cauldron bonfire, or horse-drawn hearse sleigh.
    • Include lampposts, iron fences, signs, and tiny benches for realism.
    • You can even mix in some snowy Christmas details — tiny gifts, wreaths made of black ribbon, or a skeletal Santa!

    Shop for Nightmare Before Christmas Village #ad

    Tip: Arrange your figures in little scenes — a witch hanging ornaments on a black Christmas tree, or a vampire sipping cocoa near the firepit.

    🪄 Display and Arrangement Tips

    1. Start with your largest building (like the Gothic Hotel or Town Hall) at the back.
    2. Create elevation using small risers, boxes, or wood pieces draped in fabric for a layered look.
    3. Cluster related buildings together — shops on one side, cemetery and lab on another.
    4. Hide lighting batteries and wires under cloth, moss, or “snow.”
    5. Photograph it! A Halloween Christmas Village looks amazing under dim lighting with candles glowing in the background.

    🛍️ What You’ll Need

    Buildings:

    • Haunted Hotel
    • Gothic Town Hall
    • Bank or Apothecary
    • Pumpkin Bakery or Candy Shoppe
    • Witch’s Laboratory
    • Cemetery Chapel or Mausoleum

    Accessories:

    • Mini black and orange trees
    • Moss, cotton “fog,” or fake snow
    • Figurines (witches, skeletons, cats, ghosts)
    • Street lamps, fences, benches
    • LED tea lights, fairy lights, or blacklights

    Tools & Supplies:

    • Extension cords or battery packs
    • Small risers or boxes for height
    • Paint (black, silver, purple) for touch-ups
    • Hot glue or museum putty for securing pieces

    🎁 Final Touch: The Gothic Christmas Spirit

    Your Halloween Christmas Village is more than a decoration — it’s a storybook town where two magical worlds meet. With glowing pumpkins beside snowy rooftops and spectral lights flickering through frosted windows, your village will capture the mysterious beauty of both holidays.

    So light the candles, cue the eerie carols, and welcome visitors to your Gothic Holiday Village of Dreams.

  • Dragon Decor

    🐉 Mystical Elegance for Your Home

    Dragons have long symbolized power, protection, and magic — making them the perfect inspiration for home décor that captures strength and fantasy. Incorporating dragon elements into your space brings a sense of enchantment and storytelling to your interior design.

    Shop Dragon Decor on Amazon #ad

    From glowing wall lamps to crystal spheres that shimmer like ancient treasures, here’s how to infuse your home with dragon magic.

    🔥 Dragon Wall Sconce Lamps

    Light up your lair with fiery elegance.
    Dragon wall lamps transform ordinary lighting into sculptural art. Whether you choose a fierce black dragon wrapped around a glowing orb or a metallic gold dragon breathing fire onto the wall, these fixtures instantly become a dramatic focal point.

    In gothic or fantasy-inspired homes, dragon lamps pair beautifully with stone textures, dark wood, and metallic accents. A lamp shaped like a dragon clutching a glowing crystal gives off both ambient warmth and medieval charm — perfect for hallways, reading corners, or above a mantle.

    Find Dragon Wall Sconce on Amazon #ad

    Design Tip: Use warm amber bulbs or LED lights that mimic candlelight to enhance the mystical glow of your dragon lamp and make the scales shimmer like real firelight.

    🔮 Dragon Crystal Balls

    Mystical décor that radiates ancient wisdom.
    Nothing captures the spirit of dragon décor more than a crystal ball held by a dragon’s claw or wings. The combination of clear or colored glass with intricate dragon sculptures creates a stunning balance of light and shadow.

    Use them as centerpieces on your table, mystical décor in your meditation space, or accents on a bookshelf beside gothic novels and candles. The reflection of light through the crystal ball adds a magical aura, especially when placed near a window or under LED lighting.

    Shop Dragon Crystal Balls on Amazon #ad

    Design Tip: Pair a dragon crystal ball with smoky quartz, amethyst, or obsidian stones to amplify the mystical energy and tie your space together.

    🌙 Dragon Night Lights

    For dreamers who love magic after dark.
    Dragon night lights are both functional and mesmerizing. These small glowing guardians make the perfect addition to bedrooms or creative spaces. Whether perched on a crystal base or curled around a glass orb, a softly lit dragon brings serenity and imagination to the night.

    In a child’s fantasy bedroom or an adult’s gothic suite, a dragon night light can serve as a protective charm — a gentle creature watching over while you sleep.

    Browse Dragon Night Lights on Amazon #ad

    Design Tip: Choose night lights with color-changing LEDs to create a mood-shifting aurora effect that feels straight out of a mythical realm.

    📱 Dragon Cell Phone Holders

    A blend of modern function and fantasy flair.
    Even your desk or bedside table can reflect your inner dragon spirit. Dragon cell phone holders are clever and artistic, often featuring a miniature dragon gripping your phone in its claws or sitting proudly beneath it like a throne.

    These are not just accessories — they’re conversation starters. Perfect for gamers, fantasy fans, or anyone who loves to blend technology with timeless mythology.

    Find Dragon Phone Holders on Amazon #ad

    Design Tip: Match your phone holder with other metallic or resin dragon accents — such as a pen holder, candleholder, or statue — for a cohesive themed workspace.

    🖤 Final Thoughts: The Power of Dragon Design

    Dragon décor is about more than aesthetics — it’s about channeling strength, creativity, and ancient mysticism into your everyday surroundings. Whether you prefer glowing wall fixtures or subtle accessories, these legendary creatures add both drama and peace to your space.

    Let your home tell a story. Let dragons guard your light, hold your treasures, and bring their timeless magic into every corner.

  • How to Create a Gothic Thanksgiving Table Setting

    Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be like your moms plaid tablecloths — it can be hauntingly elegant.

    A Gothic Thanksgiving dining room transforms the traditional fall feast into a moody, romantic, and luxurious experience. Picture candlelit shadows dancing across black plates, velvet napkins, and silver goblets glinting like relics from an ancient castle.

    Below you’ll find everything you need to set the perfect Gothic Thanksgiving table — from linens and lighting to the smallest silver detail.

    🕸️ The Table & Tablecloth

    Start with a dark, dramatic base. A long, polished dining table in black, espresso, or deep mahogany sets the tone. Cover it with a black velvet or satin tablecloth and layer a lace or brocade runner down the center for texture and depth.

    What You Will Need:

    • Black or dark red tablecloth
    • Gothic lace or velvet table runner
    • Black placemats or charger plates

    Shop Gothic Tablecloths on Amazon #ad

    🕯️ Lighting & Candles

    Gothic elegance thrives on candlelight. Replace overhead lighting with flickering black taper candles in ornate silver or wrought-iron candleholders. You can also mix in LED flameless candles for safety, especially if your feast runs late into the night.

    What You Will Need:

    • Black or burgundy taper candles
    • Candleholders in silver, black, or antique gold
    • Small votives or candelabras for the centerpiece

    Browse Gothic Candles on Amazon #ad

    Gothic Thanksgiving

    🕯️ Dinnerware & Silverware

    Use black stoneware or matte dark gray dishes paired with silver utensils. Gothic décor loves contrast, so pair black dinner plates with crystal glassware and silver goblets. Napkins can be deep red, purple, or even black — tied with skull, bat, or raven napkin rings.

    What You Will Need:

    • Black dinner plates and bowls
    • Silver or gold cutlery set
    • Crystal wine glasses or goblets
    • Cloth napkins with gothic napkin rings

    You can find Black Dinnerware on Amazon #ad

    🦴 Centerpiece & Decor

    Create a mysterious, luxurious centerpiece using dark florals like black roses, deep purple dahlias, or crimson calla lilies. Add skull figurines, ravens, faux bones, or small pumpkins painted black and gold. Drape black lace or spiderweb fabric to create layers and intrigue.

    What You Will Need:

    • Dark floral arrangements
    • Candles or candelabra centerpiece
    • Small skull or pumpkin accents
    • Gothic table scatter (metal leaves, pearls, bones)

    Shop Gothic Decor on Amazon #ad

    🍷 Finishing Touches

    Complete the look with black or burgundy chair covers, silver chargers, and maybe even a touch of fog from a small Halloween fog machine for an extra theatrical effect. Play dark classical music or ambient gothic instrumentals in the background to set the mood.

    What You Will Need:

    • Chair covers or cushions in dark tones
    • Ambient music playlist
    • Subtle lighting effects (string lights, LED candles)

    🖤 Final Thoughts

    A Gothic Thanksgiving table is about creating an atmosphere — where beauty meets darkness and elegance meets edge. It’s perfect for those who want to celebrate gratitude and harvest season with a bit of haunting romance. Whether you dine by candlelight in a Victorian-style dining room or a modern black-and-white kitchen, these gothic touches will turn your Thanksgiving feast into a night to remember.

  • Skull Toilet Paper Dispenser

    Add a touch of dark elegance to your home with a Skeleton Skull Toilet Paper Holder. These are a spooky yet stylish statement piece for any bathroom. As soon as I saw one of these I wanted one.

    This eerie design features a detailed skeleton holding your toilet paper like a prized possession, blending functionality with macabre charm.

    Amazon has a few of these in different styles…

    Shop: Skull Toilet Paper Dispensers on Amazon #ad

    Perfect for Halloween lovers, skull collectors, or anyone who embraces the beauty of the bizarre. 💀🖤

    Skeleton Skull Toilet Paper Holder: A Gothic Twist on Bathroom Decor

    Bring a touch of dark humor and gothic charm to your bathroom with a Skeleton Skull Toilet Paper Holder. When your friends come over and see this it will be so cool.

    The skeleton wall-mounted holder features a retro skull design with intricate details, giving your space a unique gothic aesthetic. It looks cool to have skull stuff in the bathroom. So perfect for anyone who loves skulls, skeletons, or Halloween-inspired décor all year long.

    Realistic and Spooky Atmosphere

    With its creepy, life-like skeleton figure, this piece instantly sets a chilling yet fun tone. Whether it’s part of your haunted house setup or your permanent gothic bathroom décor, it adds just the right amount of eerie flair. Every glance feels like your skeleton friend is silently judging — or maybe protecting — your throne. 🦴💀

    Easy to Install and Use

    Installation is simple: just hang it using the hole on the back. The open-bottom design allows for easy paper roll changes, while the spring-loaded rod keeps it functional and secure. It’s spooky, yes — but also practical for everyday use.

    Built to Last

    Crafted from high-quality resin, a skull paper holder is moisture-resistant, odorless, and rust-proof — perfect for humid spaces like bathrooms. The detailed finish ensures it stays hauntingly beautiful for years to come.

    The Perfect Gothic Gift

    Looking for something unforgettable for a fellow goth or Halloween lover? A Skeleton Skull Toilet Paper Holder makes the perfect gift — ideal for skull collectors, horror fans, or anyone who loves a little darkness in their décor.

    Turn your bathroom into a haunted hideaway of style — because even everyday essentials deserve a gothic touch. 💀🖤

  • Gothic Wedding Dress With Sleeves

    I was married in a black dress so I promise you, you will never regret wearing A Black Gothic Wedding Dress with Sleeves, it is the ultimate expression of dark romance — elegant, mysterious, and unforgettable. With flowing black lace sleeves and a long dramatic veil, these black gown turns tradition on its head, celebrating beauty found in shadow and moonlight.

    Shop Gothic Wedding Dress with Sleeves on Amazon #ad

    Perfect for brides who dream beyond the ordinary, this gothic masterpiece blends Victorian grace with modern sophistication. It’s not just a dress — it’s a statement of individuality, passion, and eternal love, capturing the essence of gothic elegance in every stitch. 🖤🌙

    The Black Gothic Wedding Dress: Timeless Elegance Wrapped in Darkness

    In a world of white gowns and predictable traditions, the black gothic wedding dress stands apart — mysterious, romantic, and unapologetically bold. Designed for brides who find beauty in shadow and magic in moonlight, this dress tells a story older than lace itself. With black lace sleeves and a long flowing veil, it evokes the haunting grace of Victorian mourning gowns, yet feels strikingly modern and powerful.

    A Brief History of Gothic Fashion

    Gothic fashion traces its origins to the Victorian era, when dark romanticism and mourning attire became forms of art and expression. Black lace, corsets, and high collars symbolized both elegance and sorrow — an aesthetic that has continued to evolve over the centuries. From the literature of Edgar Allan Poe to the music of The Cure, the gothic style has always been about emotion, individuality, and depth.

    In the late 20th century, gothic fashion was reborn through punk and alternative culture, blending old-world romanticism with rebellion. Today, it’s more than a subculture — it’s a lifestyle and an artistic statement embraced by modern brides seeking a wedding that reflects their true spirit.

    The Modern Gothic Wedding

    The rise of gothic weddings marks a return to personal, meaningful celebrations where every detail carries symbolism. A black wedding dress with lace sleeves and a cathedral-length veil feels both regal and intimate — like stepping into a storybook written under candlelight. These weddings often blend vintage details, candlelit venues, antique jewelry, and dark florals, creating a world that feels both historical and enchanted.

    For many brides, choosing black isn’t about rejecting tradition — it’s about redefining it. The black gothic wedding dress represents eternal love, mystery, and strength — a celebration of beauty that thrives in the dark.

    Under the glow of chandeliers or the silver light of the moon, a bride in black becomes unforgettable — a living poem of elegance, power, and passion. 🖤🌙

  • Bat Necklace with Cross

    From the shadowed beauty of New Orleans, one of the most haunted cities in the world, artist Monique Lula unveils a breathtaking piece from her Gothic Jewelry Collection — a bat necklace with a glowing purple opal cross centerpiece. This hauntingly elegant creation merges Victorian romance with modern craftsmanship, inspired by the city’s ancient cemeteries, ornate tombs, and timeless air of mystery.

    The necklace in the image below can be found here: Bat Necklace

    Visit Glowies.net to see all of the jewelry

    Each necklace is handmade in Monique’s New Orleans studio, where every element is chosen for its symbolism and style. The bat — a classic gothic motif — spreads its wings above a luminescent purple opal cross that glows in the dark, capturing the supernatural beauty of twilight and moonlight on marble crypts. The bat has an aurora borealis style metallic finish on the parts and chains.The design pays homage to Victorian mourning jewelry, yet its sleek lines and modern materials make it perfect for today’s gothic fashion lovers.

    The Gothic Bat Necklace embodies everything that defines Monique Lula’s artistry: a fusion of elegance, mystery, bats, and a touch of the paranormal. Every glow and flicker of the opal reflects her devotion to craftsmanship and her deep connection to New Orleans’ ghostly charm.

  • Visiting Anne Rice Tomb on All Souls Day

    Today I visited the resting place of one of New Orleans’ most beloved and legendary gothic authors — Anne Rice.

    The cool autumn air whispered through the oak trees of Metairie Cemetery as I walked among marble angels, weeping willows, and shadowed tombs. The sun broke softly through the clouds, and it felt like the perfect All Souls’ Day — a moment suspended between worlds, just as Anne would have written it.

    Fans brought flowers, her novels,pumpkins and other mementos , while some wrote letters to her and this was the first photograph I took upon arrival.

    The Queen of Gothic Literature

    Anne Rice (1941–2021) forever changed the landscape of gothic fiction with Interview with the Vampire, her groundbreaking 1976 novel that introduced the world to Louis, Lestat, and the immortal melancholy of New Orleans’ darkly romantic underworld. The novel — later adapted into a film and TV series — became the cornerstone of The Vampire Chronicles, a sweeping saga that fused philosophy, sensuality, and the supernatural.

    If you have not done so already, I highly recommend you read her Vampire Books, you can get them on Amazon. #ad

    Her stories weren’t merely about vampires — they were meditations on love, grief, faith, and immortality. She brought New Orleans to life as a character itself: humid, haunted, and heartbreakingly beautiful. Beyond her vampires, she also wrote about witches, ghosts, and angels, always exploring the sacred and the profane with her signature elegance and empathy.

    The Tomb in Metairie Cemetery

    After decades of literary fame and a life spent in devotion to her art, Rice returned to her beloved New Orleans in eternal rest. Her family tomb, built before her death, stands in Metairie Cemetery — a grand white stone mausoleum bearing the name RICE in bold letters above its doors. It is both solemn and majestic, a fitting final home for the woman who gave the city its modern gothic soul.

    Inside rest Anne Rice herself, her husband Stan Rice, and their daughter Michele, who passed away tragically at the age of five. Michele was the inspiration for the haunting child vampire Claudia in Interview with the Vampire. After Anne’s passing, her daughter’s remains were moved from California to New Orleans, reunited at last with her parents in the tomb Anne designed.

    If you look through the glass doors of her tomb you can see a lovely stained glass window illuminating their resting place with the beautiful phrase: “May perpetual light shine upon them O Lord.”

    Stan Rice: The Poet Beside Her

    Stan Rice (1942–2002) was not only Anne’s husband but an accomplished poet and painter in his own right. He served as a professor at San Francisco State University and published several volumes of poetry, often exploring the same themes of death and transcendence that Anne wove into her novels. His words — powerful, raw, and deeply human — are engraved on the side of the family tomb, a lasting testament to the love and creative bond they shared.

    Standing before their tomb, I could feel the intertwining legacies of their lives — two artists whose work reflected beauty in darkness, and whose love story was as eternal as their characters.

    A Gothic All Souls’ Day

    My visit today felt like a pilgrimage. The gentle breeze carried the scent of fallen leaves and flowers left by admirers. The marble glowed softly in the afternoon light as crows circled lazily above the ancient oaks. It was peaceful, reverent, and hauntingly beautiful — everything one might expect from a visit to the resting place of New Orleans’ gothic queen.

    As I filmed and took photos among the tombs, I couldn’t help but think that Anne Rice would have loved this day — the quiet reverence, the artistry of decay, and the endless inspiration found in the Crescent City’s cemeteries.

    In death, as in life, Anne Rice continues to remind us that beauty and darkness are never far apart — and in New Orleans, they dance together forever beneath the shade of the live oaks. 🌙🖤

    — by Monique Lula, All Souls’ Day in New Orleans 2025

  • Ghost on Toilet Wall Print

    👻 Spooky Bathroom Art with a Sense of Humor

    Even ghosts need a little reading time. 🖤

    If your idea of perfect bathroom decor includes a touch of humor, a hint of darkness, and a lot of gothic charm, then you’ll love my “Ghost on Toilet” wall print — a cute yet spooky artwork of a little ghost sitting peacefully on the toilet, reading a book titled Scary Stories. It’s gothic, funny, and oddly relaxing — the kind of art that makes guests smile and fits perfectly into a dark romantic bathroom aesthetic.

    🕯️ A Touch of Gothic Whimsy

    This print captures what I love most about gothic art — the balance between darkness and charm. It’s not gruesome or grim; it’s cozy and mysterious, like something you’d find hanging in a haunted cottage with good taste. The black-and-white tones make it blend beautifully with moody bathrooms, vintage powder rooms, or even modern spaces that need a little personality.

    Each piece is printed on museum-quality paper with rich ink contrast, so the details — the folds of the ghost’s little book, the shadows of the bathroom wall — all pop beautifully.

    You can find this design and other spooky-chic home decor pieces in my shop, LulasBoutique.com

    🖤 Why Every Gothic Bathroom Needs a Ghost

    Bathrooms are sacred spaces for self-care and solitude — so why not make them magical? A small piece of art like this brings personality and laughter to a place that’s often overlooked in home decor. The ghost embodies that playful gothic spirit: hauntingly adorable, a little mischievous, and unapologetically weird.

    🕸️ Complete the Look

    If you’re decorating a gothic bathroom and want to turn your everyday space into something straight out of a dark fairytale, be sure to check out my full guide:

    👉 How to Decorate Your Bathroom in Gothic Style

    It’s filled with ideas for gothic mirrors, floor mats, lace curtains, and more — all with easy links to shop the look.

    Pair it with black lace curtains, black candles, and you’ve got a bathroom that’s part spa, part séance.

    💀 Final Thoughts

    The “Ghost on Toilet” wall print is more than bathroom humor — it’s gothic art with personality. It reminds us that even spooky souls enjoy a little downtime with a good book. Hang it above your toilet, near your vanity, or next to a candlelit bathtub, and watch how it transforms your space from ordinary to eerily enchanting.

  • How to make a Black Christmas Tree

    There was a time when black Christmas trees were considered rebellious—something only the boldest souls dared to display. But thanks to the haunting beauty of The Nightmare Before Christmas and the unforgettable charm of Jack Skellington, what was once “spooky season only” has become a year-round aesthetic for gothic hearts. The generation that fell in love with Tim Burton’s eerie wonderland in the 1990s has grown up—and we’ve brought that shadowy magic into our homes, where dark meets twinkle, and the holidays finally feel like us.

    Today, the black Christmas tree has gone mainstream. It’s no longer a novelty—it’s a statement. A symbol that says: Christmas can be elegant, dramatic, and delightfully dark. Whether you’re decorating a cozy apartment or a grand Victorian home, your black tree can shimmer with red, green, silver, and even black ornaments for that perfectly balanced gothic glow.

    Let’s build one together.

    🖤 1. The Black Tree

    Your foundation is the black tree itself. You can find artificial black trees in a variety of sizes—from tabletop minis to towering 7-foot centerpieces. Look for one with full, lush branches that can handle heavier ornaments and lights. Matte black gives a true Victorian mourning aesthetic, while glossy black branches reflect light beautifully and create depth in photos.

    What You’ll Need:

    • Black artificial Christmas tree (matte or glossy finish)
    • Tree stand or base
    • Optional: artificial snow spray for frosted gothic vibes

    Shop Black Christmas Trees on Amazon #ad

    💡 2. The Lights

    Lighting transforms your tree from dark to dazzling. For a gothic-glam look, try red or warm white LED strands. If you’re going full Tim Burton, alternate between green and purple bulbs for a hauntingly festive effect. Wrap lights from the base upward, weaving them deep into the branches for an inner glow that radiates outward.

    What You’ll Need:

    • 2–3 strands of LED Christmas lights (red, green, purple, or warm white)
    • Extra batteries or extension cords
    • Optional: color-changing LED bulbs for a dynamic look

    Shop Christmas Lights on Amazon #ad

    🎄 3. The Ornaments

    This is where your creativity shines. Mix traditional Christmas colors—red and green—with silver and black ornaments for dimension and contrast. Think shimmering glass balls, matte black spheres, red velvet ribbons, and even skull or bat accents. You can even DIY some with metallic paint or glitter glue for a custom, witchy touch. Monique Lula makes some glow in the dark ornaments.

    What You’ll Need:

    • Red, green, silver, and black ornaments
    • Mini skulls, bats, or roses for gothic details
    • Silver tinsel or dark ribbon
    • Ornament hooks or black string

    Shop Black Christmas Tree Ornaments on Amazon #ad

    👑 4. The Tree Topper

    Your topper sets the tone for the entire tree. A classic star works, but if you’re leaning into the dark holiday aesthetic, try something unique: a silver crescent moon, a black glittered bat, or a small Jack Skellington head. For a witchy vibe, a raven or bat makes a hauntingly perfect statement.

    What You’ll Need:

    • Either Traditional or Gothic Topper (bat, raven, star, or custom DIY piece)
    • Black glitter spray for sparkle
    • Zip ties or floral wire to secure it firmly

    Shop Gothic Tree Toppers on Amazon #ad

    🕸️ 5. The Tree Skirt

    The finishing touch grounds your entire look. A black velvet or lace tree skirt adds elegance and frames your decor like a dark stage curtain. If you want something more whimsical, use a red satin or faux fur skirt for a pop of contrast—or even layers of black tulle for drama.

    What You’ll Need:

    • Black, red, or silver tree skirt
    • Optional: fabric roses or fairy lights around the base

    Shop Black Tree Skirts on Amazon #ad

    ✨ The Gothic Christmas Evolution

    What started as a fringe aesthetic has now become part of the modern holiday tradition. The 1990s generation grew up surrounded by Burtonesque wonder—Jack and Sally dancing under snowflakes, proving that darkness and joy can coexist. Now, those same kids have families, and they’re teaching their children that Christmas doesn’t have to be all red and green—it can be mysterious, romantic, and deeply personal.

    Every black Christmas tree tells a story. It’s about embracing who you are, celebrating in your own way, and adding a bit of moonlight to the season. Whether you top yours with a bat or a star, one thing is certain: the gothic Christmas tree is here to stay—and it’s never looked more beautiful.

    Final Touch: Play “This Is Halloween” softly while decorating, sip a cup of peppermint mocha in a black mug, and watch your tree come alive. After all, in the world of Gothic Darling, every night can be a little bit Christmas—and every Christmas, a little bit Halloween.

    If you want a Halloween vibe follow this guide.