Short purple hair sounds like something you’d see on a cool cartoon character or that effortlessly chic barista who always gets your name right. But hear me out: I went purple. I chopped it all off. And no, I didn’t lose a bet or go through a midlife crisis—I did it on purpose. Spoiler alert: it was one of the best style moves I’ve ever made.
If you’re wondering whether short purple hair is bold or bonkers, I’ve got you. In this post, I’ll share what it’s really like to rock this color, how to pull it off without looking like a grape Fanta commercial, and 20+ ideas that’ll make you say, “Yep, I need that look.” Whether you’re flirting with lavender, dreaming of deep plum, or sitting in your stylist’s chair wondering, “Can I actually do this?”, you’re in the right place.
When I switched from safe brunette to edgy violet, I expected a few double-takes. What I didn’t expect? The confidence boost. Short purple hair isn’t just a hairstyle—it’s a whole vibe. Plus, it’s surprisingly versatile (yes, even for Monday morning Zoom meetings).
So, if you’ve been hovering over Pinterest boards, stuck between Should I? and What if I look like a troll doll?, take a deep breath. I’ve been there, dyed that—and I’ve got all the juicy details to help you decide if this bold little haircut is your next big mood.
1. Vibrant Purple Pixie
I went for the vibrant purple pixie when I was craving something bold but low-maintenance.
It’s edgy, artsy, and perfect for accentuating cheekbones. This style works best if you love statement looks with minimal styling time.
I just tousle it with a bit of pomade and I’m out the door. It’s a great intro cut if you’re curious about short purple hair.
Check out more pixie cut ideas for all face shapes on DailyHairstyle.
2. Lavender Short Bob
There’s something dreamy about a lavender short bob—it’s soft, playful, and somehow still classy.
I wore this during spring and got compliments from everyone, even my grandma.
It flatters most face shapes and works wonders on fine to medium hair. Add a little wave for a romantic finish.
For more inspiration, check out these short purple hair ideas that’ll totally elevate your look.
3. Plum Purple Crop
The plum purple crop was my “moodier” phase—and I loved it. Deep purple tones like this make short hair feel luxe and dramatic.
It’s ideal for olive to deep skin tones, and the color doesn’t fade as fast. A dab of shine serum makes the hue pop beautifully.
For more ideas on chic short cuts, check out short hairstyles for women over 60.
4. Pastel Purple Shag
This cut gave me total 70s rockstar vibes. The pastel purple shag is perfect if you want movement and texture without looking too “done.”
It’s especially great for naturally wavy hair. I used a salt spray and air-dried it—super easy, super cute.
5. Deep Purple Buzz Cut
Buzzing it all off in deep purple was one of my boldest moves. But wow, it felt freeing.
This look screams confidence and surprisingly requires almost no upkeep (besides re-dyeing).
It’s a power move for anyone feeling adventurous with their short purple hair journey.
6. Lilac Textured Bob
I tried this after growing out a pixie, and the lilac textured bob was a fun transition.
The layers add bounce, and lilac brings a fresh, youthful energy. It’s subtle enough for work, but still totally cool. Use a lightweight mousse to bring out the texture.
7. Violet Purple Undercut
This one turned heads—literally. A violet undercut is bold, rebellious, and unexpectedly flattering.
I kept the top longer for styling options, while the undercut gave it edge. Pair with a graphic eyeliner look for max impact.
8. Amethyst Short Layers
This cut and color gave my hair life when it was feeling flat and boring.
Amethyst tones bring dimension, and short layers add volume without much effort.
Works best if you have straight or slightly wavy hair. Just blow-dry with a round brush for that “salon-fresh” vibe.
9. Purple Ombre Pixie
I didn’t know short hair could do ombre until I tried this. With deeper roots fading to a light purple tip, the ombre pixie is playful yet polished.
It’s perfect if you’re growing out your color too. A styling wax helps define the fade and layers.
10. Magenta Purple Bob
Magenta is not for the shy—this bob pops. I wore it with a side part and blunt ends for drama.
It flatters warm and cool undertones alike and makes short purple hair feel glam. Just keep color-safe shampoo on standby!
11. Icy Purple Short Crop
This icy purple crop gave off major futuristic energy. It’s sharp, sleek, and super modern.
I went all in with a silver-lilac tone, and it looked amazing against fair skin. Use a purple toning mask weekly to keep the chill hue intact.
12. Eggplant Purple Taper
This one’s a fall favorite for me. The eggplant purple taper blends richness and structure—great for anyone wanting a low-key but fashion-forward cut.
It grows out gracefully too. A bit of hair oil keeps the deep color glossy and smooth.
13. Neon Purple Short Shag
Neon purple and a shag cut? Talk about main character energy. I wore this for a music festival and honestly didn’t want to go back to regular colors.
This one thrives on boldness and texture, so don’t be afraid to scrunch and style wildly.
14. Subtle Purple Balayage Bob
This style was my “I want purple, but not too much” phase. The balayage adds dimension while keeping things soft.
It’s workplace-friendly but still fun. I curled the ends slightly to show off the color variation—so pretty in natural light.
15. Royal Purple Mini Bob
There’s something regal about a royal purple mini bob. It’s sleek, powerful, and frames the face beautifully.
I paired it with a middle part and sharp angles for drama. This style screams confidence without trying too hard.
16. Purple Peekaboo Short Cut
Peekaboo purple is like a secret you want people to find out. I kept the top dark and dyed the underlayers a bright purple.
Perfect for those who want color without the full commitment. Bonus: it’s fun to style with half-up looks to reveal the surprise underneath.
17. Soft Lilac Pixie
When I needed a break from bold, I went soft—and this lilac pixie was perfect. I
t’s delicate, feminine, and low-effort chic. It especially flatters lighter complexions. I used a smoothing cream to keep it airy but neat.
18. Dark Purple Asymmetrical Bob
This one was my go-to when I wanted to feel edgy and elegant. The asymmetry adds flair, while the dark purple gives it richness.
It looks amazing when flat-ironed sleek or tousled for texture. Super flattering on oval and heart-shaped faces.
19. Purple Tinted Bowl Cut
Okay, I know what you’re thinking—bowl cut?! But trust me, with the right stylist and a lavender tint, it’s fashion-forward.
I wore this during a creative rut and it weirdly sparked inspiration. Keep it glossy and geometric for max impact.
20. Matte Purple Short Layers
Matte purple is where edgy meets modern. No shine, just bold color and structure.
I loved this with messy layers and a soft side fringe. It’s perfect for those wanting short purple hair with a fashion editorial twist.
