Your costume is planned and your makeup is mapped out, but your hair still needs a plan. A great Halloween hairstyle can carry an entire look, even when your costume is simple.
The best news is that you do not need a wig to look incredible on October 31. Your own hair, plus a few clever techniques, can become the star of your costume.
From bubble braids to gothic chignons, these 25 halloween hairstyles complete any costume you can dream up. Every style works with your natural hair and most take under 30 minutes.
Whether it is an office party or a night out with friends, there is a look here for you. Grab your bobby pins, because your best Halloween hair starts now. For more inspiration, the stylists at Lulus share three easy Halloween hairstyles for iconic costumes.
Quick Tips
Before you start styling, these four tips will save you time and keep your look secure all night long.
Prep your hair the night before
Most Halloween hairstyles hold better on second day hair. Wash and roughly dry the evening before for natural texture that grips pins. If hair is freshly washed, dry shampoo adds instant grip.
Stock up on bobby pins and clear elastics
Nearly every look here depends on invisible pins and elastics. Buy more than you think you need, because they vanish at the worst moment.
Use temporary colour for commitment free drama
Halloween is the perfect night to experiment with colour you would never wear daily. Temporary sprays and chalks wash out with one shampoo, so you can go bold without consequences. If you want big curls without heat damage, this heatless headband curl tutorial shows a brilliant overnight method.
Do a trial run before party night
Never attempt a new style for the first time an hour before a party. A quick practice run shows which steps are tricky and how long it really takes.
1. Bubble Braid Witch Ponytail
The bubble braid looks intricate and magical, yet it is one of the easiest styles here. You need only a high ponytail and a handful of elastics.
Place elastics down the ponytail at even intervals, then tug each section outward to form full bubbles. Weave black satin ribbon through for instant witch energy, and perch a pointed hat over the base.
Best for: witch, sorceress, and dark fairy costumes. Pair with: a black dress, smoky eyes, and a pointed hat. Tip: pancake each bubble gently with your fingertips for maximum fullness.
2. Glitter Root Space Buns
Space buns are playful alone, but glitter roots turn them into a full Halloween statement, perfect for alien costumes and pop star looks.
Twist two high pigtails into buns and pin securely. Apply glitter gel along your parting and around each bun base, then press loose glitter over it for sparkle that catches every light.
Best for: alien, fairy, unicorn, and pop star costumes. Pair with: holographic makeup and star shaped accessories. Tip: use a glitter gel base rather than loose glitter alone so it stays put for hours.
3. Sleek Vampire Slick Back
Nothing says vampire like hair that looks expensive and slightly dangerous. This is all about shine and control, and it takes under ten minutes.
Work strong hold gel through damp hair and comb everything straight back, keeping the sides tight. Finish with gloss spray for mirror like shine that flatters every length.
Best for: vampire, villain, and Morticia Addams costumes. Pair with: deep red lips, a black cape, and dramatic jewellery. Tip: cocktail gel with a shine serum to avoid a crunchy finish.
4. Messy Mermaid Waves
Mermaid hair should look like you just emerged from the ocean, so perfection is not the goal. Tousled waves with plenty of texture are exactly right.
Curl large sections with a wide barrel iron, alternating directions, then scrunch in sea salt spray. Tuck shells or pearl clips into the waves and add glitter at the crown.
Best for: mermaid, siren, and sea witch costumes. Pair with: iridescent makeup and ocean toned accessories. Tip: sleep in loose braids the night before for effortless waves with zero heat.
5. Braided Crown with Black Ribbon
A braided crown is romantic and regal, and black ribbon gives it a dark Halloween twist, ideal for edgy princess and gothic bride costumes.
Create two Dutch braids from the temples, bring them up over the crown, and pin into a halo. Weave black velvet ribbon through first, letting the ends trail for drama.
Best for: dark fairy, evil queen, and gothic bride costumes. Pair with: a velvet dress and berry lips. Tip: pancake the braids slightly before pinning for a fuller crown.
6. High Pumpkin Ponytail
This is the cutest festive hairstyle on the list. A bouncy high ponytail dressed with orange ribbon reads instantly as Halloween.
Flip your head upside down and gather hair into the highest ponytail you can manage, then curl the ends for bounce. Wrap orange satin ribbon around the base and tie it in a big bow.
Best for: cute pumpkin, scarecrow, and autumn fairy costumes. Pair with: an orange or rust coloured outfit. Tip: wrap a strand of hair around the elastic before adding the ribbon for a polished base.
7. Twisted Devil Horn Buns
Why buy plastic horns when your hair can do the job? Twisted horn buns are cheeky, fun, and sturdy once pinned properly.
Twist two high pigtails tightly, then coil each upward into a pointed shape rather than a round bun. Pin generously and add red temporary colour at the tips for devilish flair.
Best for: devil, demon, and mischievous fairy costumes. Pair with: a red dress and a pitchfork prop. Tip: backcomb each pigtail before twisting so the horns hold their shape all night.
8. Gothic Low Chignon
Elegant Halloween looks need elegant hair, and the low chignon delivers. It is polished and timeless, perfect for gothic and Victorian costumes.
Twist a low ponytail into a neat bun at the nape and pin as you go, keeping the top smooth. Add a black lace accessory or dark flowers at the side for drama.
Best for: gothic bride, Victorian ghost, and vampire aristocrat costumes. Pair with: lace, velvet, and antique style jewellery. Tip: a light mist of shine spray keeps dark hair looking rich in photos.
9. Wet Look Dark Siren Hair
The wet look is red carpet approved and perfectly spooky, giving mysterious siren energy that suits almost any dark costume.
Comb wet look gel through damp hair evenly, create a deep side part, and smooth everything down and back. Tuck one side behind the ear to show off statement earrings.
Best for: dark siren, vampire, and film noir costumes. Pair with: a slip dress and dark glossy lips. Tip: layer gel over damp, not soaking, hair for shine without drippiness.
10. Spiderweb Braid Updo
This is the showstopper for anyone who loves a statement. A web of braids pinned into an updo looks incredibly detailed, and tiny spider clips make it unmistakably Halloween.
Create several small braids in varying directions, gather them at the back, and pin into a loose updo so the braids cross like web strands. Clip in small spiders and mist with silver glitter.
Best for: spider queen, dark witch, and haunted mansion costumes. Pair with: black lace and smoky eyes. Tip: use braids of different thicknesses for a more organic web effect.
11. Half Up Bat Bow
A bow made from your own hair is a classic party trick, and shaped slightly wider it looks just like bat wings. Cute, clever, and very Halloween.
Loop the top half of your hair halfway through an elastic to form a loop, split it into two halves, and pin each flat to form the bow. Wrap the tail end over the centre and pin underneath.
Best for: bat, vampire, and cute witch costumes. Pair with: winged eyeliner and a black mini dress. Tip: a little backcombing inside each loop keeps the bow plump instead of flat.
12. Voluminous Retro Curls
Big retro curls are pure old Hollywood, and they suit everyone from vintage starlets to pinup witches.
Curl in one inch sections, pinning each curl to cool for maximum hold. Release, brush through gently with a paddle brush, and add a deep side part for authentic glamour.
Best for: old Hollywood starlet, pinup, and retro witch costumes. Pair with: a vintage style dress and red lipstick. Tip: pin curls to cool for at least 15 minutes for curls that survive dancing.
13. Sleek Cat Ear Top Knot
The black cat is a Halloween classic, and this hairstyle means you can skip the headband. Two pointed top knots read instantly as cat ears.
Twist two small high pigtails into pointed knots, pinning each tip upright for that ear like point. Keep the rest sleek and draw on whiskers with eyeliner.
Best for: black cat and catwoman costumes. Pair with: an all black outfit and a feline eye. Tip: position the knots slightly forward on the crown so they read as ears from the front.
14. Fishtail Braid with Orange Ribbon
The fishtail braid looks far more complicated than it is, which makes it perfect for Halloween. Woven with orange ribbon, it becomes a festive statement.
Sweep hair to one side and cross thin outer strands over alternately all the way down, braiding an orange ribbon in as you go. Pull the braid apart gently for fullness.
Best for: autumn fairy, woodland creature, and harvest costumes. Pair with: earthy tones and gold jewellery. Tip: keep your sections small for the most intricate looking fishtail.
15. Undone Top Knot with Black Bow
Effortless with an edge, the undone top knot is ideal when you want to look cute without trying too hard. A black bow adds just enough Halloween spirit.
Twist a high ponytail loosely into a knot, leaving ends poking out for texture, and pull out face framing pieces. Clip a black velvet bow at the base or to one side.
Best for: casual parties and cute witch costumes. Pair with: a cosy black sweater dress. Tip: tease the ponytail before twisting for a fuller, messier knot.
16. Vintage Victory Rolls
Victory rolls are the ultimate retro statement, perfect for 1940s costumes and pinup looks.
Roll two front sections inward into smooth barrels and pin securely at the base so they sit symmetrically. Smooth the back into waves or a low bun and set with strong hold spray.
Best for: 1940s pinup, retro sailor, and vintage Hollywood costumes. Pair with: victory red lips and winged liner. Tip: use a foam roller insert inside each roll for extra height and stability.
17. Dark Romantic Milkmaid Braids
Milkmaid braids are sweet by nature, but styled dark and slightly undone they become hauntingly romantic. Think ghostly heroine rather than farm girl.
Bring two side braids up and across the crown, pinning the ends underneath. Loosen the braids with your fingertips and pull out soft wisps for romance.
Best for: ghost, Victorian heroine, and dark angel costumes. Pair with: a white or black flowing dress. Tip: loosen the braids with your fingertips before pinning for a softer, more romantic finish.
Which Halloween Hairstyle Should You Choose
Short on time or new to styling? This quick comparison helps you pick the right look for your skill level and your evening plans.
| Look | Time needed | Skill level | Best occasion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bubble Braid Witch Ponytail | 15 minutes | Beginner | Costume parties and trick or treating |
| Sleek Vampire Slick Back | 10 minutes | Beginner | Office parties and dinner events |
| Voluminous Retro Curls | 45 minutes | Intermediate | Glamorous evening parties |
| Dark Romantic Milkmaid Braids | 25 minutes | Intermediate | Themed balls and photo shoots |
18. Sleek Middle Part with Colour Streaks
Sometimes the simplest base makes the boldest statement. Glassy straight hair with vivid temporary streaks is modern and edgy.
Straighten in clean sections with a precise middle part, then apply temporary colour spray to face framing sections in Halloween shades. Seal with light hold spray.
Best for: modern witch, cyberpunk, and pop culture costumes. Pair with: graphic liner and minimalist jewellery. Tip: apply colour to dry hair only, and wear gloves to keep your hands clean.
19. Tousled Shag with Dark Roots
The shag is effortlessly cool, and dark roots give it a moody edge that fits Halloween perfectly. Maximum attitude with minimum effort.
Enhance layers with texturising spray, scrunching for piecey definition, and add root shadow spray if needed. Keep the finish matte and lived in.
Best for: rock star, zombie chic, and 1970s inspired costumes. Pair with: leather and smudged eyeliner. Tip: flip your head upside down and massage the roots for instant volume.
20. Elegant Low Bun with Birdcage Veil
A birdcage veil turns the simplest bun into something mysterious and dramatic. This is the hairstyle equivalent of a plot twist.
Create a smooth low bun and secure a birdcage veil fascinator at the crown with pins. Position the netting over one eye for maximum intrigue.
Best for: mysterious widow, vintage mourner, and masquerade costumes. Pair with: a black dress and pearls. Tip: practise positioning the veil before the night so it sits exactly where you want it.
21. Double Dutch Braids with Gold Charms
Double Dutch braids are sporty and fun, but gold charms elevate them into something worthy of a goddess or warrior costume.
Braid two tight Dutch braids from the hairline back on slightly damp hair. Thread small gold charms and cuffs onto the braids at intervals for metallic detail.
Best for: goddess, warrior princess, and Viking costumes. Pair with: gold jewellery and bronzed skin. Tip: braid on slightly damp hair for the neatest, longest lasting result.
22. Old Hollywood Glam Waves
Sculpted Hollywood waves never go out of style, and they are the definitive choice for vintage glamour costumes.
Curl everything in the same direction with a large barrel iron, brush through to merge the curls into smooth waves, and set with clips while cooling. Add a deep side part.
Best for: vintage movie star, flapper, and glamorous ghost costumes. Pair with: a satin gown and red lips. Tip: curling everything in one direction is the secret to waves that flow instead of frizz.
23. Twisted Space Buns with Chains
Space buns get a dark upgrade with delicate chains woven through them. Edgy, modern, and perfect for costumes with attitude.
Make two high twisted buns, then drape thin chains across your parting and around each bun base, securing with hidden bobby pins. Choose lightweight chains so they hold.
Best for: dark fairy, cyber goth, and warrior costumes. Pair with: black outfits and metallic accessories. Tip: choose lightweight chains so they do not pull the buns loose.
24. Loose Boho Waves with Dark Florals
Boho waves are romantic and effortless, and a crown of dark florals makes them hauntingly beautiful. This is Halloween for romantics.
Create loose waves with the ends left straighter, brush through for softness, and place a crown of dark red or plum flowers across your crown like a headband.
Best for: dark fairy, woodland nymph, and boho witch costumes. Pair with: flowing dresses and flower jewellery. Tip: mist the flower crown with hairspray to keep petals fresh looking all night.
25. Candy Apple Red Sleek Blowout
End the list with pure drama. A glossy candy apple red blowout, achieved with temporary colour, is bold and unforgettable.
Apply temporary red colour evenly, then blow dry smooth with a round brush for volume and shine. Finish with shine serum for that lacquered effect.
Best for: poison apple, devil, and Jessica Rabbit inspired costumes. Pair with: a red dress and matching lips. Tip: protect your costume neckline with a towel during application, as temporary red can transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my Halloween hairstyle last all night?
Start with second day hair or add dry shampoo for grip, apply hairspray in light layers, and pin generously. Crisscrossing bobby pins locks updos in place. Carry spare pins for quick fixes.
Can I do these halloween hairstyles on short hair?
Absolutely. The sleek slick back, wet look, and glitter roots work beautifully on bobs and lobs. For buns and braids, try half up versions. Ribbons, veils, and clips do the heavy lifting when length is limited.
What products do I need for Halloween hair?
The essentials are bobby pins, clear elastics, strong hold hairspray, dry shampoo, and smoothing serum. For Halloween drama, add temporary colour spray, glitter gel, and themed accessories. Most looks use products you already own.
How do I remove glitter and temporary colour after the party?
Work conditioner or hair oil through dry hair before showering to loosen glitter and colour without harsh scrubbing, then shampoo twice. Coconut oil on a cotton pad removes stubborn traces from your hairline.
Your Hair Is the Best Costume You Own
No wig, no expensive extensions, no salon appointment needed. The most memorable Halloween looks start with the hair you already have and a little creativity.
Final Thoughts
These 25 halloween hairstyles prove that your costume is only half the story. From bubble braids to gothic chignons, the right hairstyle completes any costume and makes even a simple outfit look intentional. Every look here works with your natural hair, skips the itchy wig, and keeps you comfortable all night long. Save this guide, practise your favourite style before the big night, and get ready for the compliments to roll in. Which of these halloween hairstyles will you try this year?
