No goth aesthetic is complete without a goth hairstyle. Yet, the great thing about goth hairstyles is that there is no “right” or “wrong” way to go about it. Because goth is all about self-expression, you can literally wear your hair any way you want to - and look awesome doing so.
However, if you’re looking for a bit of inspiration, you’ve come to the right place.
Below are the top 10 trendiest goth hairstyles to rock this year. Whether you’re looking for something tame and relaxed or entirely out of the box, you’ll find a ‘do to match your personality below.
1. Goth Mullet
Mullets may have been “out” for the past ten-plus years, but they’re making a fierce comeback. Nowadays, you can’t take two steps without seeing someone rockin’ a mullet.
Naturally, the goth scene has dipped its toes into the mullet zone - only this time, the iconic hairdo gets a gothy makeover that’s as spooky as it is intricate and cool.
For her goth mullet hairstyle, she starts with a “classic” mullet haircut - short in the front and sides and long in the back. Yet, she adds some pizazz with two strands of hair on each side of her head, a pair of v-cut bangs, and ultra-short tapers on top to add height and movement.
2. Classic Updo
If you’re looking for goth hairstyles for long hair, this is a great way to go. She turns this relatively popular updo into one that’s goth-friendly.
She starts with jet-black hair that’s lightly textured for some added depth. Then, she straightens her blunt-cut bangs and face-framing side pieces. Finally, she tosses half of her hair into an elastic band, ensuring it adds some much-needed height and refinement.
Overall, this look is incredibly sleek and sensual. At the same time, though, it’s exotic and mysterious. It's genuinely the idyllic everyday hairstyle for any goth lady.
3. Teased Bombshell
Are you looking for goth hairstyles for short hair dripping with traditional flare? Then you need to consider rockin’ this hairstyle, girl!
This goth hairstyle is all about body.
The look starts with a short, layered haircut mixed with plenty of long and short layers. This immediately adds some texture to the hair. The haircut finishes with blunt bangs that are heavily popular in the goth community.
But what really makes this hairstyle is the massive amount of teasing in the back. Really, it all comes down to backcombing your hair to perfection. Don’t stop backcombing until you’ve reached the desired height - and don’t worry about brushing it out. The crazier, the better.
4. Dreaded Ponytail
Those embracing the cybergoth subculture have many options for hairstyles, but this one tends to be one of the most popular.
To achieve this hairstyle, all you need to do is add some dreadlocks to your mane. The cool thing about cybergoths is that they don’t have to stick to dark and macabre colors - if you want neon shades, such as this bright yellow, you can.
Add in some edgy shaved sides and throw your dreadlocks into a ponytail for a look that absolutely kills.
5. Accessorized Waves
Some might see this hair and think, “No, it’s too cute.” And they’re not exactly wrong. Short, wavy hair has an err of cuteness about it - especially when it’s a bright pink shade like this.
However, we can’t ignore that she drums up this typically “adorable” hair with spooky elements.
For example, she quickly goes from “charming” to somewhat terrifying with the addition of a spiky headband with huge spikes. To ensure she looks 100% gothic, she also uses her clothing and makeup choices to her advantage.
It’s a somewhat “tamer” hairstyle, yet it doesn’t slack on being goth.
6. Messy Bun
Let’s face it - almost every girl loves a messy bun, especially when you just don’t feel like doing anything with your hair (you know exactly what I’m talking about!).
But you might think you can’t enjoy your favorite, simple, and convenient hairstyle because you’re goth.
Think again.
This messy bun proves that you can achieve a gothic aesthetic while wearing a messy bun. You just need to leave a few extra pieces hanging around your face and ensure you have the right bangs to match. Emphasize the gothic appeal with makeup and accessories!
7. Slick Straight
If you’re searching for simple goth hairstyles for short hair or goth hairstyles for long hair, this is probably what you’re looking for.
As “simple” as this hairstyle is, it’s one of the most popular in several goth communities.
It all starts with a simple haircut. You can add some layers, but not too dramatic - for this look. Finish off the style with some blunt-cut bangs a little above your eyebrow. Run a straightener through your mane and call it a day.
8. Romantic Curls
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Many women prefer to dabble in the romantic goth culture, which focuses on more elegant and sophisticated styles - all the while just as eerie as other subcultures.
And this look proves it.
Her long, luscious, and romantic curls are something to admire. Yet, tinted with a blood-red shade and paired with a goth-friendly long black dress, it’s something out of your favorite horror film.
9. Retro Updo
For those wanting to embrace their inner 50s girl, this is the hairstyle for you!
This goth updo hairstyle has plenty of “retro vibes” with a funky gothic twist you’d never see coming.
The split hair - one side blonde and the other jet-black - offers some eye-catching contrast that finishes her gothic aesthetic perfectly.
10. Goth Mohawk
No goth hairstyle truly “wows” quite like a mohawk.
Now, this remarkable woman chooses to spot a blend of pinks and purples in her mane, but you can choose whatever color you’d like.
You also have options in terms of lengths. The image shows an incredibly long mohawk, popular for some goth subcultures. But many other subcultures choose shorter and spunkier versions, which is a-okay.
Embracing the Dark Aesthetic with Goth Hairstyles
Whether you’re looking for thrilling goth hairstyles for long hair or tame goth hairstyles for blonde hair, there’s a look out there to suit your needs. The only question is - which one of these goth hairstyles are you planning to rock?