There’s a shift in the air, and no—it’s not just the changing seasons. It’s Jenna Ortega season. With the premiere of Wednesday Season 2, the star is stepping into the spotlight with looks that are darkly romantic and quietly powerful, making it clear that Goth Glam is back—and it’s more refined than ever.

But make no mistake: this trend isn’t about Halloween costumes or Hot Topic nostalgia. The new goth glam is elevated, architectural, and softly subversive. It’s about structure over chaos, gloss over grit, and hair that speaks without shouting.

What Is Goth Glam Hair in 2025?

Goth Glam hair blends dark tones, sleek lines, and intentional details to create a mood that’s more modern art than moody teen. Inspired by vintage noir, 90s alt, and high fashion’s recent obsession with the macabre, it’s having a moment—and it’s not going anywhere this fall.

The details:

  • Low ponytails with razor-sharp parts and refined finishes
  • Exaggerated shine that suggests mystery, not mess
  • Shadowy brunette and blue-black hues with high-gloss dimension
  • Braided or wrapped detailing replacing traditional accessories
  • Soft, face-framing bangs or curtain layers to add cinematic depth

It’s a little witchy, a little runway, and 100% deliberate.

 

Why Goth Glam Hair Is Trending Now

The return of goth glam is more than a style cycle—it’s a shift in energy. As minimalism gives way to more expressive silhouettes and moody palettes (see: beauty runways, couture collections, and yes, Jenna Ortega), hair is following suit.

 

After years of undone texture and sun-kissed softness, we’re craving shape, shine, and storytelling. Hair is being used not just to flatter—but to frame emotion. And in goth glam, every strand has purpose.

More and more clients are asking for “sleek but sculptural,” or “soft goth with a fashion edge.” It’s about having something to say, even when you whisper.

 

How to Style Goth Glam Hair

 

This look isn’t high-maintenance—but it is high-impact. Whether you're dressing up for date night or just embracing your darker side, here's how to bring the look to life:

1. Sculpted Low Ponytail

Start with a center part and smooth everything back with a light styling cream or gel. Gather the hair at the nape of the neck, and secure with a wrapped strand or hidden braid instead of a visible elastic.

2. Add Intrigue, Not Accessories

Replace sparkle clips with subtle structure: a wrapped braid, a twisted section, or a knotted detail. Think editorial, not Etsy.

3. Leave the Face-Frame Free

Don’t tuck your fringe or soft layers behind your ears—let them fall forward for that intentionally unpolished edge.

4. Finish with High Gloss

Use a shine mist or serum to enhance dimension. This look thrives in lighting that catches movement.

 

Goth Glam Hair Color Ideas

While black is the classic goth tone, the updated palette includes:

  • Inky Blue-Black: A midnight hue with depth and shine
  • Smoky Charcoal Brown: Cooler than chocolate, softer than black
  • Plum or Merlot Accents: Subtle enough to hint at color, bold enough to shift mood
  • Jet Black with Sheen: Clean, classic, no filler

Bonus points for tone-on-tone glossing or a shine glaze finish—shine is to goth glam what glitter is to Euphoria makeup.

 

Goth glam isn’t about committing to black lipstick or being “dark enough.” It’s about embracing aesthetic tension: polish with edge, elegance with attitude, softness with severity. Whether you’re going all in with a sculpted braid and smoky eye, or just updating your hair with a sleek part and rich tone, the energy of goth glam is there.