16 goth hairstyles to inspire your Halloween look

With Halloween right around the corner, it’s time to settle on a look for the spooky celebrations ahead. But if you’re not one for fancy dress, and just want an edgy look for partying and beyond, why not give yourself a gothic makeover? Unsure where to start? Then you’re in luck, as we’ve got a whole host of stylish goth hairstyles up our sleeves, that are sure to give you some major #hairspiration.

All you need to do is sit back, relax, and scroll through all the hot goth ‘dos on offer.

16 goth hairstyles that will make your Halloween game strong

1. Braided pigtails

You can’t talk about goth hairstyles without mentioning Wednesday Addams’ iconic braided pigtails. They’re a quick and easy way to give your mane a spooky flair, making them the ideal ‘do for last minute Halloween parties. Credit: @shreddervonfrankenstein

Editor’s tip: To nail this braided goth look, you’ll need the TONI&GUY Flexible Hold Braid Balm. This easy-to-use balm will make plaiting your mane a breeze, as it’ll provide it with enough grip and structure.

2. Flower crown

Just because you’re going as a goth for Halloween doesn’t mean you have to put a stop to your love for flower crowns! This beauty pairs her fiery, tousled strands with one to nail those creepy woodland vibes. Credit: @joanashino

3. Cat ears

Meow! This is pretty much every goth girl’s backup Halloween hair look, so you can really never go wrong with a good ol’ pair of cat ears. Credit: @katzlittlefactory

4. Goth box braids

Is it just us, or don’t long box braids look amazing when they’re given a gothic makeover? Sweep yours back like this naturalista has done, grab a choker and some round sunglasses, and you’ll be seriously ready to trick or treat. Credit: @proudblackroots

Next read: 11 frightfully chic Halloween ideas for black hair.

5. Undercut with weave

Happen to have a undercut? With the addition of a protective weave hairstyle, you’ll be able to enchant your victims (and get all the compliments!) with this striking mane combo that’ll last way past Halloween. Credit: @killstarco

6. Colourful short goth hair

While goth hairstyles are characteristically defined by being ultra dark and choppy, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t rock other hair colours.

Take this Instagrammer for instance; she’s opted to give her look a contemporary twist by rocking this red punk ‘do. Credit: @unfade_leo

7. Long dark locks

If you’re looking for cute goth hairstyles, but bright colours aren’t your cup of tea, it’s time to bring things back to basics and work a more traditional goth hairstyle. Simply dye your mane a sleek, raven shade of black and cut in some blunt bangs.

This look works especially well if you have long locks, as you can style your hair pin-straight, and tie the whole gothic look together with a spiked choker of your choice! Credit: @ylimekookey

8. Grey goth goddess

If you’re after slightly more muted goth hairstyles, yet ones that are still totally on-trend, look no further than a chic shade of grey.

This light, almost silvery, hue is the ideal colour option to choose if you don’t want to commit to dyeing your locks super dark. Credit: @charlottealicecollier

9. The short ‘do

If you have natural black hair and want to make a statement, why not opt for a drastic mane change by getting an edgy mohawk?

Short goth hair is a bit more daring than the rest, yet is still totally on point thanks to it’s dark hue and unique, sky-high texture. Credit: @vizion_inpitch

10. Two-tone hair + glitter roots

Looking for goth hairstyles that practically scream party? Then it doesn’t get any more festive than this split-colour hairdo with glitter roots. It’s the perfect way to add a little bit of sparkle to your sultry, goth-inspired look. Credit: @melinamalicious

Psst…This is how you can remove glitter from your hair post-Halloween.

Editor’s tip: Want to make sure your glitter roots stay party-proof? Apply the VO5 Fixing Spray For Glitter to your roots before sprinkling your glitter. Trust us, it’ll help your glitz stay put while you dance the night away.

11. Pretty plaits

Add a Victorian feel to your plaits by weaving a satin or velvet ribbon into your braided hairstyle. Not only will it instantly make your goth hairstyle look pretty, but the sight of your mad braiding skills will also make your friends green with hair-envy! Credit: @hair_by_kateb

12. High top fade

What’s not to love about this goth hair look? It’s sweet, cropped and low-maintenance, which makes it a definite winner for busy naturalistas!

Take your hair game up to the next level for your party by teaming your ‘do with a fierce hair accessory. We love elasticated headbands worn across the forehead for that #gothicpartywarrior look. Credit: @vizion_inpitch

13. Bettie Page-inspired bangs

Retro and gothic? Sounds like a strange mix, doesn’t it? But trust us, it does work.

Micro bangs are the secret to nailing this look, so just remember to curl your fringe slightly for a truly Bettie Page-meets-Elvira vibe. Credit: @_dani_vegas_

14. Peekaboo colour

Create a peekaboo effect by spraying your locks with temporary hair colours. It’s great way to discreetly tap into this season’s hottest hair trends without any of the commitment of permanent hair colour! Credit: @july.mary_

15. Vibrant purple

Let’s be honest, there’s no other vibrant hair hue that screams goth better than an almost fluorescent purple! This vivid colour will be sure to have heads turning wherever you go, especially if you pair it with a smokey eye and a stunning burgundy lip. Credit: @annathevoice

Tip: If you’re considering dyeing your locks a cool gothic shade, then you’ll need to switch up your current wash and care system to help maintain your colour vibrancy. We suggest trying the TRESemmé Colour Revitalise Shampoo and Conditioner.

16. Slicked-back

This slicked-back hairstyle subtly feeds into this season’s hottest trend: the wet-look. So do your best impression of Kim Kardashian with this glam vampire-inspired goth hairstyle and you’ll be ready to party ’til dawn. Credit: @evelyn.ellis