15 Bright Hair Color Ideas for Goths That Are Pure Witchcraft

To dye or not to dye? It’s the eternal goth dilemma (at least, for those not blessed with raven locks). Dyeing your hair black is great for spooky vibes—but then you have to let it grow out before you can do anything else with it. And the vicious cycle continues.

Looking for a new gothic hair color that isn’t basic black? Then we have some spellbinding ideas for you! Browse this collection of bright hair color ideas for some dark inspiration before your next hair appointment.

1. Teal of Terror

a woman with teal hair worn up in a hairclip

This dramatic look is pretty low maintenance since you don’t have to worry about touching up the roots. Just add color as needed to refresh your look. Try this vegan formulation for brunettes--no bleach required.

2. Scorching Pink

a woman with hot pink hair and a black leather jacket wearing face glitter

Nothing makes a bold statement like hot pink hair. It’s an unexpected twist for a gothic aesthetic that will give your look a breath of fresh air.

3. Mermaid Hair

a woman with teal and pink hair and a black tanktop

This gorgeous effect is achieved by separating the hair into two layers when applying color. Pink and teal are popular, but you could also go for purple and green. Try Lunar Tides hair color in complementary shades to make your mermaid dreams come true.

4. Peroxide Poisoning

a woman in a black blouse with short blond hair and dark roots

Bleach blond hair has an unstoppable edge—and you can always add color to it whenever you want. (Just make sure there’s no dye in your hair to interfere with the bleaching process.) Use a lightening kit if you're experienced, but if you've never bleached your hair before you should leave it to the pros.

5. Two-Toned

a woman with bangs and half black half red hair leaning on her elbow

Can’t decide between two colors? Why not try both! This two-toned hair color look is perfect for the bold. Go for a vivid, intense red, or the contrast of your choice.

6. Double Streaks

a woman in sunglasses and a beret with dark hair and two blond streaks

Frame your face with crisp blond streaks for a goth-friendly look that is sleek, wearable, and ultra-modern. Use a salon hair coloring kit for precise streaks if you plan to DIY.

7. Shock of Purple

A woman in a black victorian dress and a white veiled hat with black and purple hair and goth makeup

This glaring purple hair dye is perfect for a high-volume trad goth hairstyle. Tease it up with firm hold hairspray for extra altitude.

8. Subtle Streaks

a woman with curly hair with pink and purple streaks

Keep it understated with thin streaks of color—or go for peek-a-boo highlights. Don't want to commit? Try using hair mascara for a temporary pop of color that washes out easily.

9. Blue Monday

This all-over pale blue hair color is the perfect pastel goth hair for those who want an alternative to pink.

10. Dark Auburn

a woman with dyed red hair and a black leather jacket

This dark red hair color is a gothic classic that’s easy to do yourself with box dye, and it’s applied all over here for simple upkeep.

11. Rainbow Locs

a woman with sunglasses and rainbow dreadlocks on a yellow background

These rainbow wrapped dreadlocks create a symphony of color—no hair dye required.

12. Metallic Balayage

two women in black leather jackets with balayage hair color

Balayage hair color creates a subtle gradient—try it in gold or silvery gray for a unique look.

13. Siren Song

a woman with green hair and a black sweater

Greens and teals pair beautifully with goth fashion. Go for all-over color or eye-catching dip dyed tips.

14. Cotton Candy Pink

a woman with light pink hair on a pink background

Pastel pink hair is the crowning glory of any kawaii goth or pastel goth look. Add this permanent color to light blond hair for a pink that won't quit.

15. Black Hair with Pink Streaks

a woman with black hair with pink streaks sitting under a tree

If you love having black hair but want a pop of color, leave one or two streaks undyed so you can add the color of your choice. Alternatively, you can use clip in hair extensions and trim them to the desired length.

This collection of colorful goth hair looks should spark some macabre ideas for your next arcane hair ritual. Hey, we’re all skulls underneath—so why not have some fun!