In the world of hair fashion, few themes captivate the imagination like vampire-inspired hairstyles. These looks exude a mysterious allure, blending elegance with a touch of the macabre, making them perfect for halloween or any event that calls for a dramatic entrance. Whether you’re aiming for a Victorian vampire look or something more modern and edgy, these hairstyles offer a unique way to express your gothic style. This article will delve into captivating vampire hairstyles, each tailored to different hair types, lengths, and occasions. Whether you’re crafting a look for women halloween or seeking a halloween short hair style, these ideas will inspire your next transformation.
The Victorian-Inspired Updo
For a touch of vintage elegance, the Victorian-inspired updo is a must-try. This hairstyle channels the grandeur of the 19th century, with its intricate twists and voluminous curls, making it a perfect choice for women looking to embody a classic vampire aesthetic. The updo can be styled high or low, depending on your preference, and it works beautifully with long hair or curly hair. This look is ideal for formal events or a halloween party where you want to stand out. It’s particularly flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces, highlighting the neck and collarbone. Pair it with a dark, smoky eye to enhance the gothic allure, and you’re sure to turn heads.
To achieve this updo, start by curling your hair with a medium-barrel curling iron. Once curled, section off the top half of your hair and tease it at the roots for added volume. Begin twisting and pinning sections of hair at the crown, allowing some curls to fall freely for a more romantic feel. Secure the style with strong-hold hairspray, such as TRESemmé’s TRES Two Extra Hold Hairspray, to keep everything in place all night. Regular conditioning with a product like Moroccanoil Hydrating Conditioner will keep your hair healthy and shiny, ensuring your updo remains sleek and stunning.
Messy, Voluminous Curls
When you think of vampire hairstyles, you might imagine wild, untamed locks that reflect the chaotic nature of the supernatural. Messy hair with voluminous curls is the perfect way to channel that energy, offering a look that’s both natural and effortlessly chic. This hairstyle is incredibly versatile and can be worn for women with short hair or long hair, making it ideal for those who want to embrace their inner vampire without sacrificing comfort. The messy curls look particularly stunning on round or square face shapes, as they add height and elongate the face. Pair this style with dark lipstick and minimal makeup for a striking contrast that emphasizes the hair’s wild beauty.
To create these voluminous curls, start with damp hair and apply a volumizing mousse, such as the Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse, from roots to ends. Use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to enhance your hair’s natural texture. Once dry, wrap sections of hair around a large-barrel curling wand, alternating directions to achieve a more natural, tousled look. Finish with a texturizing spray like Ouai’s Texturizing Hair Spray to add definition and hold. To maintain your curls, consider using a curl-enhancing shampoo and conditioner, like DevaCurl’s No-Poo Original Cleanser and One Condition Original.
Gothic Braids with a Modern Twist
Braids have long been a staple of gothic fashion, and when paired with a modern twist, they become the perfect hairstyle for a vampire-inspired look. Whether you’re opting for box braids, French braids, or a more intricate braided crown, this style is versatile enough to suit women of all hair types. The key to making this look truly vampiric is to keep the braids tight and sleek, with minimal frizz, giving them a polished yet edgy appearance. This hairstyle works exceptionally well for those with long hair, as the length allows for more intricate designs, but it can also be adapted for short hair by incorporating extensions. It’s a great choice for women attending a halloween event, especially when paired with dark, dramatic makeup.
To achieve these gothic braids, begin by parting your hair into sections and applying a smoothing serum, such as John Frieda’s Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum, to eliminate any frizz. Braid each section tightly, securing the ends with clear elastics. For a modern twist, consider adding metallic hair cuffs or weaving in a ribbon that matches your outfit. Once your braids are complete, spray them with a light-hold hairspray to keep them in place without making them stiff. To maintain the health of your braids, especially if you’re using extensions, use a leave-in conditioner like SheaMoisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner.
The Mullet Revival
The mullet is back in style, and it’s here to make a bold statement in the world of vampire hairstyles. This look is perfect for women who want to combine the rebellious spirit of the 80s with a gothic twist. The mullet features short layers on top with longer strands at the back, creating a stark contrast that’s both edgy and eye-catching. This hairstyle is ideal for those with short hair who want to try something new and daring. It’s particularly suited for square and heart-shaped faces, as the layers add softness around the jawline while maintaining a strong, angular look. The mullet can be styled with a slight wave or worn straight for a sleek finish, making it a versatile choice for both casual outings and halloween parties.
To style a mullet, start by applying a texturizing spray, like Oribe’s Dry Texturizing Spray, to add volume and grit to your hair. Use a flat iron to create subtle waves, focusing on the longer strands at the back. For a sleeker look, straighten the hair and use a styling cream, such as Bumble and Bumble’s Bb. Grooming Creme, to smooth down any flyaways. To keep your mullet looking sharp and healthy, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, like the Ouai Repair Shampoo and Conditioner, to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils.
The Aesthetic Ponytail
If you’re looking for a vampire hairstyle that’s both chic and easy to achieve, the aesthetic ponytail is a fantastic option. This look is all about sleekness and precision, with the hair pulled tightly back into a high or low ponytail. The aesthetic ponytail is perfect for women with long hair who want to keep things simple yet sophisticated. It’s a versatile style that can be worn to a halloween party, a gothic-themed event, or even a casual day out. This hairstyle flatters oval and diamond face shapes, as it highlights the cheekbones and elongates the neck. Pair it with a dramatic cat-eye and dark lipstick for a look that exudes vampiric elegance.
To achieve the aesthetic ponytail, start by straightening your hair with a flat iron to ensure it’s completely smooth. Gather the hair into a ponytail at your desired height, securing it with a hair tie that matches your hair color. For an extra touch of elegance, wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the hair tie and secure it with a bobby pin. Finish with a shine spray, such as Kenra’s Shine Spray, to give your hair a glossy finish. To maintain this sleek look, use a smoothing shampoo and conditioner, like the OGX Smoothing + Shea Sleek Shampoo and Conditioner.
Dramatic Gothic Bun
The dramatic gothic bun is a striking hairstyle that combines elegance with a hint of darkness, making it perfect for women who want to embrace their inner vampire. This updo is characterized by its large, voluminous bun that sits high on the head, often paired with sleek, pulled-back hair to create a stunning contrast. The gothic bun is ideal for women with long hair or natural hair, as the added volume enhances the drama of the style. It’s a perfect choice for formal events, halloween parties, or any occasion where you want to make a bold statement. This look flatters most face shapes, especially round and oval, as it adds height and elongates the face.
To create a dramatic gothic bun, start by applying a volumizing mousse to damp hair, such as the Bed Head by TIGI Superstar Queen for a Day Thickening Spray. Blow-dry your hair while brushing it back to create a smooth base. Gather the hair into a high ponytail and twist it into a large bun, securing it with bobby pins. For added volume, consider using a hair donut as a base for the bun. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray, like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray, to keep the style in place. To maintain the sleekness of the look, use a leave-in smoothing cream, such as the Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Intensely Smooth Leave-In Conditioning Cream.
Dreadlocks with Gothic Flair
For a truly unique vampire hairstyle, consider adding a gothic twist to dreads. This look is perfect for women who want to embrace a bold, edgy style while still paying homage to traditional vampire aesthetics. Dreadlocks can be styled in various ways, from a full head of locks to a combination of dreads and loose hair, allowing for endless creativity. This hairstyle is ideal for women with natural or textured hair, as it enhances the natural volume and adds a sense of mystique. The gothic twist can be achieved by incorporating dark, jewel-toned accessories or weaving in ribbons or beads that match your outfit. This style is particularly flattering for round and square face shapes, as it adds length and structure to the face.
To style gothic dreads, start by sectioning your hair and applying a twisting gel, like the ORS Lock & Twist Gel, to each section. Twist the hair tightly and allow it to lock over time, or use synthetic extensions for instant dreads. To maintain the health of your dreads, regularly moisturize your scalp with an oil like the Jamaican Mango & Lime Island Oil, and use a residue-free shampoo like the Knotty Boy Dreadlock Shampoo to keep your dreads clean without buildup.
Victorian Curls for Short Hair
Victorian-inspired curls bring a touch of timeless elegance to any hairstyle, especially when styled for women short hair. These tightly wound curls create a structured yet soft look, reminiscent of the opulent hairstyles of the Victorian era. Perfect for women attending a halloween event or a gothic-themed party, these curls are ideal for adding volume and texture to short hair. This style flatters oval and heart-shaped faces, as the curls add width at the temples and soften angular features. Pair this hairstyle with a lace choker and deep red lipstick for a look that screams gothic sophistication.
To achieve Victorian curls, start by applying a heat protectant, such as the CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray, to dry hair. Use a small-barrel curling iron to curl small sections of hair, ensuring each curl is tight and defined. Once the curls have cooled, gently separate them with your fingers to create a softer, more natural look. Finish with a light mist of hairspray, like the Paul Mitchell Soft Style Freeze and Shine Super Spray, to hold the curls in place. To keep your curls looking fresh, consider using a curl-defining cream, such as the OGX Locking + Coconut Curls Air Dry Cream, which helps maintain the shape and bounce of your curls.
Gothic Box Braids with a Twist
Box braids are a versatile and protective hairstyle that can be given a gothic makeover for a vampire-inspired look. This style is perfect for women with long hair who want a hairstyle that’s both practical and striking. The gothic twist comes from incorporating dark, rich colors, such as deep purple or midnight black, into the braids, as well as adding accessories like metallic cuffs or chains. Box braids are ideal for women attending a halloween event, as they can be styled in various ways, from updos to half-up, half-down styles. This look works well for all face shapes, as the braids can be customized to frame the face beautifully.
To create gothic box braids, start by sectioning the hair and applying a moisturizing leave-in conditioner, such as the Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream, to each section. Braid each section tightly, securing the ends with clear elastics. For a gothic touch, consider adding colored extensions or weaving in a dark ribbon. Once all the braids are complete, finish with a braid spray, like the African Pride Black Castor Miracle Braid & Scalp Cleansing Rinse, to keep the scalp moisturized and the braids looking fresh. To maintain your box braids, regularly apply a scalp oil, such as the Design Essentials Herbal Complex 4 Hair & Scalp Treatment, to prevent dryness and itching.
Gothic-Inspired Ponytail with Dreadlocks
For a unique fusion of styles, the gothic-inspired ponytail with dreads offers a dramatic and edgy hairstyle perfect for women who want to stand out at a halloween party. This look combines the sleekness of a high ponytail with the texture of dreadlocks, creating a striking contrast that’s sure to turn heads. The gothic twist comes from adding dark accessories, such as spikes or chains, to the ponytail, as well as incorporating deep, rich colors into the dreads. This style works well for women with natural or textured hair, as the dreads add volume and depth to the hairstyle. It’s particularly flattering for heart and oval face shapes, as the height of the ponytail elongates the face.
To create this gothic ponytail with dreads, start by gathering the hair into a high ponytail and securing it with a hair tie. If you don’t have dreads, you can use synthetic extensions to achieve the look. Once the ponytail is secured, wrap a section of hair around the base to conceal the hair tie. For the gothic touch, add accessories like hair cuffs or wrap a chain around the ponytail. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray, like the Got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray, to keep everything in place. To maintain the health of your dreads, use a moisturizing spray, such as the Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey Clarifying Scalp Treatment, to keep your scalp hydrated and itch-free.
Gothic Braided Crown
A gothic braided crown is a perfect hairstyle for women who want to channel their inner vampire queen. This look involves creating a crown-like braid that encircles the head, giving off an air of regality and mystery. The braided crown is particularly well-suited for women with long hair, as it allows for a more intricate and voluminous braid. This style works beautifully for halloween events, gothic-themed parties, or even a dramatic night out. It flatters oval and heart-shaped faces by framing the face in a way that accentuates the cheekbones and jawline. Pair it with dark, dramatic makeup for a look that’s both elegant and haunting.
To create a gothic braided crown, start by parting the hair down the middle and creating two sections. Braid each section tightly, starting from the nape of the neck and working your way up towards the crown. Once both braids are complete, wrap them around the head like a crown and secure them with bobby pins. For a more polished look, smooth down any flyaways with a pomade, like the Aveda Control Paste. Finish with a medium-hold hairspray to keep the braids in place all night. To maintain the health of your hair, especially after tight braiding, use a deep conditioning mask, such as the Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask.
Victorian-Inspired Low Bun
The Victorian-inspired low bun is an elegant hairstyle for women who want to add a touch of vintage charm to their vampire look. This updo sits low at the nape of the neck, with soft, romantic waves framing the face. It’s an ideal choice for women attending a halloween event or a formal gathering where you want to make a sophisticated statement. This style is perfect for women with long hair or medium-length hair, and it flatters oval and heart-shaped faces by elongating the neck and emphasizing the cheekbones. Pair it with vintage jewelry and a bold lip color for a look that’s both classic and captivating.
To create a Victorian-inspired low bun, start by curling the hair with a medium-barrel curling iron to create loose waves. Gather the hair at the nape of the neck and twist it into a loose bun, securing it with bobby pins. Allow a few face-framing strands to fall freely for a softer look. Finish with a light mist of hairspray, like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray, to keep the bun in place. To maintain the shine and health of your hair, use a serum like the Moroccanoil Treatment, which also helps to control frizz and add a sleek finish.
Gothic High Ponytail with Curls
A gothic high ponytail with curls is a dramatic and glamorous hairstyle for women who want to make a bold statement. This look combines the sleekness of a high ponytail with voluminous curls, creating a striking contrast that’s perfect for women with long hair. It’s an ideal choice for a halloween party or any event where you want to stand out. The high ponytail adds height, making it particularly flattering for round and square face shapes, as it elongates the face. Pair this hairstyle with dark, smoky eye makeup and a deep lip color to enhance the gothic vibe.
To achieve a gothic high ponytail with curls, start by straightening the hair to ensure a sleek base. Gather the hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a strong elastic. Use a large-barrel curling iron to curl the lengths of the ponytail, creating loose, bouncy curls. For added volume, tease the roots of the ponytail before curling. Finish with a volumizing hairspray, like the Big Sexy Hair Spray & Play, to keep the curls in place and add extra lift. To maintain the health and shine of your curls, use a curl-enhancing mousse, such as the OGX Locking + Coconut Curls Decadent Creamy Mousse.
Aesthetic Half-Up, Half-Down Style
The aesthetic half-up, half-down style is a versatile hairstyle for women who want to balance elegance with a touch of gothic flair. This look involves pulling the top half of the hair into a sleek updo while leaving the rest of the hair loose, creating a beautiful contrast that’s perfect for women with long hair or medium-length hair. This hairstyle is ideal for halloween parties, gothic-themed events, or even a casual day out. It flatters most face shapes, as the lifted top section adds height and the loose hair softens the overall look. Pair it with subtle gothic accessories for a more understated vampire vibe.
To create an aesthetic half-up, half-down style, start by sectioning off the top half of the hair and securing it with a hair tie or clip. If you prefer a sleeker look, straighten the hair with a flat iron before styling. For a more textured appearance, curl the loose hair with a medium-barrel curling iron. Add a gothic touch by wrapping a ribbon around the base of the updo or adding small decorative clips. Finish with a light-hold hairspray, like the TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray, to keep the style in place. To maintain the health of your hair, especially after heat styling, use a heat protectant spray, such as the CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray.
Gothic Mohawk with Braids
For a bold and edgy vampire hairstyle, consider a gothic mohawk with braids. This look is perfect for women who want to combine punk rock aesthetics with gothic fashion. The mohawk is created by braiding the sides of the hair tightly and leaving the center section loose and voluminous. This hairstyle is ideal for women with medium to long hair, and it works well for halloween events, concerts, or any occasion where you want to make a statement. The gothic mohawk flatters oval and heart-shaped faces by elongating the face and adding height. Pair this look with dark makeup and bold accessories for maximum impact.
To create a gothic mohawk with braids, start by parting the hair into three sections: the top and the two sides. Braid the side sections tightly, securing them with elastics or bobby pins. For the center section, tease the roots to create volume, then curl the hair with a large-barrel curling iron for added texture. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray, like the Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray, to keep the style in place. To maintain the health of your hair, especially after tight braiding, use a scalp oil, such as the Design Essentials Herbal Complex 4 Hair & Scalp Treatment, to prevent dryness and itching.
Gothic-Inspired Bob with Bangs
A gothic-inspired bob with bangs is a sleek and sophisticated hairstyle for women who want to channel their inner vampire with a modern twist. This look features a blunt bob cut with sharp, straight-across bangs, creating a clean and edgy appearance. It’s an ideal choice for women with short hair who want a low-maintenance yet striking style. The gothic bob flatters oval and heart-shaped faces, as the blunt cut adds structure to the jawline and highlights the cheekbones. This hairstyle is perfect for halloween events, gothic-themed parties, or even a day at the office if you’re feeling bold.
To achieve a gothic-inspired bob with bangs, start by having your hair cut into a blunt bob, with the ends cut straight across and the bangs trimmed to sit just above the eyebrows. To style, apply a smoothing serum, like the John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum, to damp hair, and blow-dry using a flat brush to achieve a sleek finish. For added shine, use a flat iron to smooth out any remaining waves. Finish with a shine spray, like the Kenra Shine Spray, to give your hair a glossy finish. To maintain the sleekness of this style, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, like the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo and Conditioner.
Victorian-Inspired Curls with a Modern Twist
Victorian-inspired curls with a modern twist are a glamorous hairstyle for women who want to combine the elegance of the past with a contemporary edge. This look features tight, structured curls reminiscent of the Victorian era, but with a more relaxed and modern finish. It’s an ideal choice for women with curly hair or natural hair who want to embrace their curls in a stylish way. This hairstyle works well for halloween events, gothic-themed parties, or any occasion where you want to stand out. The Victorian-inspired curls flatter most face shapes, as they add volume and texture around the face, creating a soft, romantic look.
To create Victorian-inspired curls with a modern twist, start by applying a curl-defining cream, such as the Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Featherlight Styling Cream, to damp hair. Use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to enhance your hair’s natural curls. Once dry, use a small-barrel curling iron to define any curls that need extra structure. For a modern twist, consider leaving the ends of the curls slightly undone for a more relaxed finish. Finish with a light-hold hairspray, like the Bumble and Bumble Bb. Curl Anti-Humidity Gel-Oil, to keep your curls in place without weighing them down. To maintain the health of your curls, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, such as the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo and Conditioner.
Gothic-Inspired Afro
The gothic-inspired afro is a powerful and statement-making hairstyle for women who want to embrace their natural texture with a touch of gothic flair. This look celebrates the volume and texture of an afro while adding a gothic twist with dark, dramatic makeup and accessories. The gothic afro is perfect for women with natural hair who want to make a bold statement at a halloween event, gothic-themed party, or any occasion where you want to stand out. This hairstyle works well for all face shapes, as the volume of the afro adds balance and symmetry to the face. Pair this look with dark lipstick and smoky eyes for a dramatic, vampiric appearance.
To style a gothic-inspired afro, start by moisturizing your hair with a leave-in conditioner, such as the As I Am Leave-In Conditioner, to keep your curls hydrated and defined. Use a pick to gently lift and shape your afro, focusing on creating volume and symmetry. For added definition, apply a curl-defining gel, like the Eco Styler Olive Oil Styling Gel, to your curls. Consider adding dark accessories, such as black ribbons or metallic hair clips, to enhance the gothic vibe. To maintain the health of your afro, use a deep conditioning treatment, such as the SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque, to keep your hair moisturized and strong.
Gothic Dreads with Beads
Gothic dreads with beads are a unique and eye-catching hairstyle for women who want to combine the edginess of dreads with a gothic aesthetic. This look involves styling dreads with dark, rich colors and adding beads or other accessories to create a dramatic, vampiric appearance. It’s an ideal choice for women with natural hair who want a hairstyle that’s both protective and striking. This style works well for halloween events, gothic-themed parties, or any occasion where you want to stand out. The gothic dreads flatter most face shapes, as they add length and structure to the face. Pair this look with dark makeup and bold jewelry for maximum impact.
To create gothic dreads with beads, start by sectioning your hair and applying a twisting gel, like the ORS Lock & Twist Gel, to each section. Twist the hair tightly and allow it to lock over time, or use synthetic extensions for instant dreads. Once the dreads are in place, add beads or other accessories that match your gothic aesthetic. Consider using black or metallic beads for a darker, more dramatic look. Finish with a moisturizing spray, such as the Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey Shine Pomade, to keep your dreads looking fresh and healthy. To maintain your dreads, use a residue-free shampoo like the Knotty Boy Dreadlock Shampoo to keep them clean without buildup.
Conclusion
The versatility and allure of vampire hairstyles make them a popular choice not just for halloween, but for any occasion that calls for a touch of the dramatic. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a Victorian updo, the rebellious spirit of a mullet, or the striking contrast of a gothic ponytail, there’s a vampire-inspired hairstyle for everyone. We encourage you to try these styles and make them your own, and we’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Share your favorite vampire hairstyle ideas, or let us know how you’ve added your unique twist to these classic looks.
I’m Yevgenia Kopenko, a hairstylist with over 10 years of experience in creating beautiful haircuts and hairstyles. On my blog, I share a wide range of styling ideas, from the latest trends to timeless classics. My goal is to inspire and connect with women who love expressing themselves through their hair. Join me as we explore the art of hairstyling and discover new ways to elevate your look.