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Greetings, inferiors! At the recent behest of @peapodsinspace of the Tumblr realm, I, Lord Morgarath of the Mountains of Rain and Night, have deigned to grace you with a guide upon mastering the art of attire befitting a true sovereign of darkness. Know that this guide merely scratches the surface of a topic that is as boundless as the abyss itself, for each facet discussed herein deserves an entire tome of its own. But for now, prepare to elevate your sinister presence to unprecedented heights- a transformation that will leave even the most stalwart of peasants trembling in awe.
Let us begin with the foundation of any distinguished ensemble: fabrics. Only the most exquisite materials should be considered. Velvet murmurs of opulence and refinement, while leather proclaims dominion and vigor. Silk, satin, and brocade drip with extravagance and decadence. Chainmail and armor exude the icy breath of mortality itself.
When it comes to colors, one must fully embrace the myriad shades of darkness in both heart and wardrobe. Deep, commanding hues such as obsidian black, blood red, royal purple, and midnight blue are essential staples of the discerning dark lord's palette.
But let us not forget the importance of lines and silhouettes, for they are the language of fashion, speaking volumes without uttering a word. Broad shoulders, tapered waistlines, and elongated contours create an aura of strength and dominance while asymmetry, sharp angles, and clean lines imbue your ensemble with a sense of ruthless precision. Remember that every stitch and seam must be executed with the utmost care. Even the slightest imperfection is a stain upon the canvas of your impeccable image.
A true connoisseur must be astute in discerning the appropriate garments for every occasion and possess a wardrobe suited to all eventualities. Apparel for the palace should be sumptuous yet pragmatic, allowing for fluid movement while still projecting an aura of regal authority. Opt for luxurious fabrics such as velvet or silk, and don't shy away from bold embellishments such as intricate embroidery, high collars, and flowing sleeves, trains, and cloaks.
For occasions requiring a more overt display of power, practicality must take precedence over pomp. To venture onto the battlefield is to embrace the use of leather and chainmail. Your garb must be plated and reinforced, your armor forged from the finest steel, meticulously crafted to withstand the onslaught of your adversaries while striking fear into their hearts.
Lords or otherwise, we must all take heed of the elements when selecting attire. Cloaks of fur-lined velvet shield against winter's chill, while lightweight silk garments protect from the sun's searing rays, ensuring comfort and resilience in any climate.
Even the ground upon which you tread should tremble in awe of your presence. Choose footwear that commands respect, whether striding through the corridors of your stronghold or trampling over the vanquished on the field of battle. Polished black leather boots are suitable for traversing both castle halls and treacherous terrain. Spiked heels, high and imposing, shall elevate you above the common rabble and leave indelible marks upon the earth, a reminder that you walk where others fear to venture.
For those brave enough to gaze upon your countenance, let your makeup be a testament to your unearthly charm. With a subtle touch, employ deep and dramatic tones to highlight your features, commanding attention to eyes ablaze with the fires of ambition and lips, crimson as spilled lifeblood, that murmur of dominion. You shall simultaneously intimidate and captivate, ensnaring all who behold you in the spell of your allure.
Next, we turn our focus to accessories to complete the ensemble. Leave behind trinkets and baubles fit for peasants- your ornaments should be as formidable and majestic as your reign. Beautifully-wrought jewelry crafted from precious metals and gemstones. Rings adorned with the sigils of one's house. Chains of blackened silver, each link a testament to the bonds of servitude that bind your subjects to your will. A finely wrought dagger, besides making a statement of elegance, can be a captivating plaything and an instrument of coercion. The ever-effective poison ring, a subtle yet stylish tool for dispatching adversaries with a mere flick of the wrist.
As a ruler of darkness, it is only fitting that you acquire for yourself with a crown befitting your station. Choose one crafted from the finest materials, adorned with menacing spikes and intricate filigree. Whether it be decorated with faceted jewels or fashioned from the bones of your fallen foes, let it be synonymous with exquisite taste and unyielding ambition. Wear it with the aloof dignity befitting one who holds dominion over all they survey.
Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, never allow your façade to slip. Keep your garments immaculately tailored, your accessories polished and gleaming, and your demeanor calculating and elegant. Remember, it is not enough simply to look the part of a dark lord. You must live and breathe it, until even the shadows themselves dare not cross your path.
In conclusion, my dear acolytes, remember that true power lies not only in the wielding of swords and sorcery but also in the mastery of one's own image. Embrace the darkness within, let your wardrobe serve as testament to your malevolent magnificence, and revel in the fear and awe that your presence inspires. Now, go forth and conquer the world of fashion with the same ruthless determination with which you seek to conquer all else.