Gothic hairstyles are known for their edgy and dramatic appeal, embracing dark and unconventional aesthetics. These unique hair ideas allow women to express their individuality and make a striking fashion statement. From elegant updos to bold colors, we’ve curated 15+ of the most stylish gothic hair ideas for women, complete with descriptions, styling tips, and links to DIY tutorials.
15+ Goth Hairstyles and YouTube Tutorials That Are Full Of Style
1. The Classic Black Bob: Sleek and Timeless
The classic black bob is a gothic icon, exuding a timeless and edgy charm. This sleek and minimalist haircut is perfect for those who prefer a straightforward, yet bold look. All you need is a flat iron to make your hair extra straight and it will be the star of the show. Nothing else is needed here!
Styling Tip: Use a flat iron to achieve a super-straight finish, and add a touch of shine serum for that extra gloss.
2. Dark Mermaid Waves: Enigmatic Elegance
Dark mermaid waves are a blend of mystery and glamor. These dark, cascading waves bring an enchanting and sophisticated aura to your gothic style. If you already have black (or dark brown) and are looking for an elegant style that doesn’t take too long to achieve, then the mermaid waves are for you! If you don’t want the teasing part of it, you can just use big barrel curling tools and skip teasing. Just think of Jessica Rabbit hair but in black. Yes, we’re bringing goth sexy hair back!
Styling Tip: Curl your hair using a large-barrel curling iron, then gently tease the curls for a relaxed, ethereal wave effect.
3. Romantic Victorian Updo: Elegance in Darkness
The romantic Victorian updo is a masterpiece of intricate braids, curls, and vintage-inspired elegance. It’s an ideal choice for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of romance to your gothic look. You can have a full up do, or just half, depending on your preference! You can braid just the upper part and leave the bottles with some big waves, or just put everything up as a loose updo!
Styling Tip: Braid your hair into two loose braids on the sides before creating the updo for added texture.
4. Fiery Red Locks: Bold and Captivating
Goth doesn’t always mean black! Change things up a bit and go bold with a completely different hair color, especially if dying your hair black would require too much work and maintenance. Fiery red hair makes a striking statement in the gothic world. The bold, rich color adds intensity and charisma to your overall look.
Styling Tip: Maintain the vibrancy of red hair with color-protecting shampoos and conditioners.
5. Dark and Mysterious Undercut: A Bold Statement
The dark and mysterious undercut combines a shaved section with longer hair, creating a bold and unique style. It’s perfect for those who want to stand out. The best part is that you don’t even have to have pitch black hair. A cool color would definitely enhance the goth look, but it doesn’t mean that black is the only choice!
Styling Tip: Keep the undercut fresh by scheduling regular touch-ups, and add styling gel for a sleek finish.
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6. Gothic Fishtail Braid: Intricate Elegance
The gothic fishtail braid is a captivating and intricate hairstyle that embodies the essence of gothic elegance. All hair colors welcome! Part goth, part viking! Black hair will feel right at home with this style, but lighter hair might see some really cool pattern and dimension when going for this look.
Styling Tip: Enhance the depth of the fishtail braid by using a texturizing spray for added grip.
Already got the goth look, but want to learn how to do a fishtail braid: Check out this tutorial:
7. Punky Mohawk: Rebel with Style
The punky mohawk is a rebellious and stylish choice, featuring a spiky crest of hair down the center. It’s a perfect way to express your individuality. Take this whole thing up a notch and color your hair blue or purple. Afraid of the dramatic change? Fear not, you can start with braiding the sides of your head to see how you like (or love) a potential mohawk!
Styling Tip: Use strong-hold hair products to keep the spikes in place and consider adding temporary hair color for a playful twist.
Related: 15 Most Stylish Mom Haircut Ideas to Elevate Your Mom Style
8. Velvet Ribbons: Victorian Accessory
We’re not completely done with the Victorian style. It’s not just about the hair, but the accessories as well, and how we can make it pop! Dark velvet ribbons add a touch of Victorian elegance to your gothic hairstyle, because well, velvet! You can go for the oh so royal color which is purple, or whatever shade of it you like best! Lets showcase your romantic side!
Styling Tip: Secure the ribbon at the base of a ponytail or bun for a romantic and timeless flair.
9. Gothic Bun: Simple, But Elegant
We can all be honest and embrace our love for all things bun. It’s easy, can be messy or not, and still look stunning. Anyone can do it, with most hair lengths and all sorts of different styles. All colors are welcome. Perfect for a night out, or just running errands before picking up the kiddos from school.
If you’re not sure you can pull this off (yes you can), check out this tutorial so you can learn it the easy way!
10. Intricate Gothic Crown Braid: Majestic and Mystical
A little goth, a little Victorian. The crown braid is an enchanting hairstyle that radiates an air of mystique and majesty. They look a lot more complicated to accomplish then it actually is to do it. And that’s all we all want: amazing style with little effort! Whether you are busy with kids or just want the extra time in the morning, this crown braid will make you look gorgeous in no time.
Styling Tip: Tease the crown braid slightly for added volume and a more romantic and gothic look.
11. Dark Elegance of Long Locks: Gothic Glamour
Long, dark, and sleek locks epitomize gothic glamour and elegance, making a bold yet sophisticated statement. Not every style needs to be complicated. If you don’t have straight hair, all you need is a good flat iron (and good heat protectant products) in order to accomplish this. It’s easy to get it done, and easy to maintain until your next wash!
Styling Tip: Invest in a high-quality straightener and use a heat-protectant spray to maintain the sleek finish.
12. Mysterious Side-Swept Bangs: Hidden Gaze
Mysterious side-swept bangs add an element of mystique by partially concealing your eyes, creating an enticing allure. There are lots of ways you can do this, but the main difference is style and length of hair. Some like it shorter and some like much longer. The longer ones will require a bit of extra spray to hold it all together or they will cover your eyes. Regardless, they are stylish and we’re here for it.
Styling Tip: Use a straightener to style the bangs in a gentle sweep to the side, adding to the enigmatic charm.
Related: 15 Ponytail Hairstyles for a Stunning Look
13. Dark Purple Hues: Regal and Sultry
Dark purple hues are a regal choice for a gothic look. The deep and alluring color adds an air of royalty to your style. There are a couple of ways you can do this: For the blondes out there, all you need is a good quality purple hair color product (if you’re going all over). If you already have dark hair, it’s best to talk to a hair consultant first to see what the process would be for you since color stripping would probably be involved. OR, you can use purple hair clip ons. Temporary, but so effective. Regardless, purple is the color of royalty, so go show the world the queen you are!
Styling Tip: Use a sulfate-free purple shampoo to maintain the vibrancy of your purple hair, and consider alternating with black or violet hair colors for added depth and dimension.
14. Sleek Silver Streaks: Futuristic Edge
Sleek silver streaks add a futuristic and edgy touch to your gothic style. The contrast of silver against dark hair is captivating, and best of all, silver hair is totally IN. Either clip some hair extensions for an easy and temporary look, or talk to your hairstylist for the best way to get your silver locks on!
Styling Tip: Regularly use a color-preserving shampoo and conditioner for silver hair to keep your streaks looking vibrant.
15. Blood-Red Ombre: Dark Romance
Blood-red ombre is a combination of dark and deep red shades that evoke a sense of dark romance and intensity. You can do the traditional ombre that changes color towards the end of your hair, or you can really go all out and do the ombre on your roots! Whatever transformation you feel ready for, this look will sure to get heads turning wherever you go!
Styling Tip: Maintain the ombre by using color-protecting products to prevent fading and keep the transition smooth.
Final Thoughts
Gothic hairstyles provide an opportunity to express your unique style. Whether you prefer sleek black bobs, fiery red locks, or intricate braids, these stylish gothic hair ideas are sure to make a captivating statement. So, embrace the dark side of fashion and create a mesmerizing look that’s truly your own.