20 Best Purple Ombre Hair Colour Ideas to Try This Year
Discover the best purple hues for your hair type.
Purple ombre hair is a fun, playful hair colour trend that can range in hue from pastel, silvery lilac to almost neon purple. You can opt for the traditional “dip dye” ombre where colour is placed at the ends. Other options include reverse ombre, or dyeing your hair platinum blonde, pastel or a metallic shade, and then finishing off your style with a purple ombre.
However you can imagine purple ombre hair, it can be created! Spend time with your colourist going over all of the options open to your hair type and texture. More than likely, though, dark hair will need to be pre-lightened, as creative colours show up better on lighter hair. However, rest assured that no matter what shade your base is, there is a purple ombre look for you.
So what are you waiting for?! Check out some of our favourite purple ombre hair ideas, below.
Purple Bouquet Ombre
The colours of this purple ombre hairstyle reminds us of a floral bouquet, with strands of silvery lilac, pastel and darker purple hues.
Graduated Violet
Can’t decide between going for a vibrant purple or a more subdued pastel hue? You can have both with this two-in-one which blends from a darker shade at the roots to pastel lilac at the ends.
Editor’s tip: If these purple ombre looks are calling out to you, you’ll need to make sure you’re using a colour-safe shampoo and conditioner to keep the colour looking vibrant. Our go-to for coloured hair? The TRESemmé Colour Revitalise Shampoo and Conditioner, which help to keep coloured hair vibrant and luminous for up to 11 weeks. This duo also contains UV filter technology to help protect against dullness and damage.
Two-Tone Purple
Looking for an unforgettable look that’ll truly set you apart? Channel the Harley Quinn vibes with this two-tone purple ombre hair look, with two contrasting purple hues.
Ombre Lob
Don’t let having short hair stop you from living your best ombre life! Ombre looks amazing on all hair lengths and can actually make even more of an impact on shorter hair. Case in point: this Instagrammer’s sleek violet lob.
Mermaid Ombre
Want everyone to really take notice of your purple ombre hair? Then team it up with really light hue, like a platinum blonde and finish it off by styling with loose, mermaid waves.
Metallic Lilac
If understated is more your vibe or you’ve got darker brunette hair, consider this muted metallic lilac hue, which boasts more of an ashy tone.
Grape Ombre
This is a pretty cool combo; bright fuchsia and grape purple come together to create this fun and vibrant look.
Purple Pony
Ombre can transform even the most basic hairstyles, like this magenta ponytail.
Editor’s tip: Colouring your hair can leave it feeling dry, which can lead to frizz and dullness. Hair oils are great for giving your strands some much-needed moisture. Apply a few drops of the VO5 Invisibly Light Hair Oil through from the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair. It will make your hair feel soft and smooth and looking ultra shiny.
Violet Ombre
Adding different tones of purple with highlights instantly gives any look a more bespoke effect that’s unique to you! Ask your colourist for a consultation before your colour appointment so that you can talk through which shades will work best with your skin tone and current hair colour.
Straight Hair Ombre
We often see ombre hair on wavy or curly hair but ombre is also great for adding a touch of colour to straight hair, without having to change from your go-to style.
Purple Natural Hair
Whether it’s a slight violet tint or a bold contrasting hue, purple ombre will transform your natural curls and really make them pop.
Purple Braids
We love the subtle tones of purple in this fishtail braid (ombre hair doesn’t have to be flashy!). The proof that deep purples can complement dark hair and provide a soft, barely-there look. Credit: @beautybyashley
Purple Wedding Hair
Purple hair might not sound like your usual go-to colour for a wedding but this Instagram post has definitely convinced us otherwise. Credit: @hairbyjenaj
Parma Violet Hair
Applying a soft lilac colour to your ends is a great way to subtly tap into the trend. This lovely Instagrammer proves this with her platinum blonde and Parma Violet sweets inspired dip-dye look. Credit: @hairriet
Hidden Colour
Why not use deep purples to enhance the shape of your new cut? We love how the violet is concentrated underneath and veiled by soft, blonde layers. Credit: @nailsbyabbysj
Reverse Ombre
Roots don’t have to be dreaded. Turn the purple trend on its head and experiment with a reverse ombre by gradually working purple hues into platinum-blonde shades (bright purple is a great way to celebrate your roots!). Credit: @nataliadidmyhair
Sweet Candy Hues
Candy pinks perfectly complement purple. So it seems natural to consider the blend before your next trip to the salon. Add it to the ends of blonde hair for a striking, sunset-inspired look.
Editor’s tip: Treating your hair to regular masks is key to maintaining the condition of coloured hair. The TRESemmé Colour Shineplex Mask is a sulphate-free deep conditioner which provides intense nourishment to dry, coloured hair. Infused with camellia oil for vibrancy and shine, work it into your hair care routine once a week to keep your strands happy and healthy.
Dark Purple Ombre
If you already have a dark hair colour, consider enhancing it with a purple ombre. Bright colours don’t just look great on light hair! Credit: @tiffanymhair
Ombre with an Undercut
We love the deep, indigo purple roots created by this Instagrammer – especially with the ‘secret’ chevron-patterned undercut. Credit: @musicaljay88
Crimped
Crimping and purple ombre hair? Before you shake your head, just have a look at Instagrammer ‘90s-inspired look. The ’90s are having a huge revival right now and this look is the perfect way to get involved with this throwback trend. Credit: @okidokiokami