If you’ve been scrolling Pinterest or TikTok lately, you know one thing is clear—red and purple highlights on dark hair are having their moment. There’s something about this combo that screams confidence and mystery at the same time. Red tones add fiery passion, purple brings moody glamour, and against a dark base, the contrast is jaw-dropping. Whether you want subtle streaks that peek out under sunlight or bold panels that make you the center of attention, this trend is versatile, playful, and oh-so-flattering.
Ready to upgrade your hair game? Let’s dive into ten seriously stunning ways to rock red and purple highlights that will have everyone asking for your stylist’s number.
Red and Purple Highlights Ideas on Dark Hair
1. Fiery Red Streaks with Purple Lowlights
This look is pure drama—the kind that turns heads the second you walk into a room. You’ll get bold crimson highlights layered on top with deep violet lowlights underneath, giving your dark hair a dimensional, edgy vibe. Perfect for round or heart-shaped faces, this style elongates your look and makes your hair appear fuller. Pro tip: pair it with leather jackets and smoky eyeliner for an instant rocker-chic finish.
2. Subtle Burgundy & Violet Blend
Not into loud, in-your-face highlights? This soft burgundy mixed with muted violet is the ultimate low-maintenance choice. It’s elegant, office-appropriate, yet still fashion-forward when the light catches it. Great for long layered cuts, this blend works wonders if you want depth without the commitment of super-bright colors. Keep it glossy with a color-safe shine spray to make the shades pop.
3. Chunky Red and Purple Panels
Channel your inner 2000s queen—but updated. Chunky panels of ruby red and electric purple placed strategically against your dark base create a bold, graphic effect. This look shines on straight hair and works beautifully with center parts for that sleek, modern edge. It’s not for the shy, but trust me, it screams confidence.
4. Wine-Toned Balayage with Purple Accents
Balayage isn’t just for blondes. A deep wine base swept through with violet balayage highlights makes dark hair look rich and luxurious. The soft hand-painted strokes give your hair that “I woke up like this” effortless vibe. Bonus: it grows out beautifully, so you won’t be living at the salon every four weeks. Perfect with cozy fall sweaters and gold hoops.
5. Peekaboo Purple with Red Tips
Want the fun without the full-time commitment? Ask for peekaboo purple highlights hidden under your dark layers, then add fiery red tips to the ends. When your hair is down, it’s mysterious. When you toss it up in a bun or ponytail—bam! Instant color reveal. It’s playful, flirty, and perfect for anyone dipping their toes into bold colors for the first time.
6. Plum and Scarlet Waves
If you live for glossy waves, this combo is a showstopper. Dark plum highlights intertwined with scarlet streaks create a multi-tonal effect that looks especially stunning when styled in loose curls. Perfect for oval faces and date nights, this one radiates glamour. Pro styling tip: curl away from your face to showcase every layer of color.
7. Ombre Fade from Red to Purple
For those who want maximum drama, go for a red-to-purple ombre that cascades down your dark hair like liquid fire fading into midnight. Start with a rich crimson near the mid-lengths, then melt into deep violet at the ends. This look shines brightest on long, straight hair but also turns curls into an absolute masterpiece. Definitely Instagram-worthy.
8. Crimson Highlights with Amethyst Shine
If jewel tones are your thing, this style is your soulmate. Glossy crimson highlights kissed with amethyst shine create a radiant, gemstone-like effect against dark hair. It’s luxe, it’s striking, and it pairs beautifully with statement earrings or bold lipstick. You’ll feel like you’re dripping in glam every time the light hits your hair.
9. Red and Purple Money Pieces
Want all the drama, but just around your face? The money-piece trend works flawlessly with red and purple highlights. Adding bright streaks framing your face gives instant brightness and dimension while still keeping your overall look chic and manageable. It’s perfect if you love bold style but don’t want a full head of color.
10. Midnight Purple with Red Dimension
For a moodier, almost gothic vibe, try a midnight purple base enhanced with fiery red highlights woven subtly throughout. This look feels mysterious and powerful, perfect for night owls who love to own the spotlight. Pair it with edgy fashion—black boots, layered chains, maybe even a bold red lip—and you’ll look unstoppable.
Your Glow-Up Starts Here
And there you have it—ten ways to slay the red and purple highlights on dark hair trend. Whether you’re going full fire-and-ice with chunky panels or keeping it sneaky with peekaboo streaks, this look is guaranteed to get you compliments. Screenshot your faves, send them to your stylist, and don’t be afraid to experiment. After all, hair grows back—but killer style moments last forever.
