Okay, so here’s the thing about plum hair—it’s basically the perfect “I’m interesting but not trying too hard” color choice. Bold? Yes. Mysterious? Absolutely. But somehow it still manages to look put-together, you know? Whether you’re going for that deep, vampy vibe or more of a soft pastel situation, plum just… works. Plus (and this is the real selling point), it makes your hair look ridiculously shiny.
If you’ve been doom-scrolling through Instagram thinking “could I actually pull off purple hair?”—consider this your sign. I’ve pulled together 21 plum hair ideas that’ll seriously upgrade your look. Doesn’t matter what your vibe is or what kind of hair you’re working with. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Plum with Rose Gold Tips
Add some romance with rose gold tips on your plum base. It’s soft, feminine, and just different enough.
What makes it work:
- Subtle but special
- Medium/long hair looks best
- Spring vibes
Classic Deep Plum Look
You really can’t mess this up. Deep plum is dramatic without being too much, sophisticated without trying too hard. It’s perfect if you want to test the waters of bold color but aren’t quite ready for, like, electric purple.
What makes it work:
- Looks good on literally everyone
- That shine though
- Works year-round
Plum Balayage
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/66029103_2591285497572046_1694374739859132365_n-e50721a0c52b496789602f1946db97a4.jpg)
Want dimension but not the commitment? Plum balayage is your friend. The color basically melts from your natural shade into these gorgeous plum ends. And the best part? It looks salon-fresh for weeks.
What makes it work:
- Grows out nicely (no harsh lines!)
- Adds crazy depth
- Brunettes, this is your gateway drug
Plum with Black Roots
Keep it edgy with black roots and plum lengths. Modern, bold, and honestly? Perfect if you hate frequent touch-ups.
What makes it work:
- Low maintenance queen
- That contrast tho
- Works on any length
Plum Highlights on Brown Hair
Not ready for the full plunge? Just add some plum highlights to your brown base. It’s subtle but you’ll definitely notice when the light hits.
What makes it work:
- Perfect starter color
- Adds warmth without being obvious
- Makes brown hair look expensive
Plum and Magenta Blend
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-621669490-38bcff0b34214feb990d7cdead71c9d5.jpg)
Can’t choose between purple and pink? Don’t. This blend is fun, vibrant, and nobody else will have it.
What makes it work:
- Playful AF
- Creative types, this is for you
- Looks insane in braids
Plum Ombre
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ombre2-e69d682ac25c41e59cf77a1e03b42f85.jpg)
For when you want drama. The transition from natural to plum is a total statement—but surprisingly easy to maintain.
What makes it work:
- Grows out beautifully
- Long hair looks amazing
- Instant head-turner
Plum Red Velvet
This shade is… well, it’s delicious. Deep and rich with just enough red to make things interesting.
What makes it work:
- So. Much. Shine.
- Universally flattering
- Special occasion hair
Plum Peekaboo Highlights
Want color that’s there when you want it, hidden when you don’t? Peekaboo highlights are your answer. Tuck them under your top layer and surprise people.
What makes it work:
- Fun but professional
- Hide them for work
- Any hair type can rock this
Plum with Blue Undertones
Cool girls, listen up. The blue undertones make the plum look even richer and give it this amazing depth.
What makes it work:
- Unique and modern
- Cool skin tones rejoice
- Changes in different light
Plum and Blonde Balayage
Talk about contrast. This combo is bold, unexpected, and very 2025.
What makes it work:
- Maximum impact
- For the adventurous
- Best on longer hair
Plum with Caramel Lowlights
Warm it up with caramel lowlights. The result? Rich, multi-dimensional color that works all year.
What makes it work:
- Softens the look
- Adds crazy shine
- Brunettes looking for change—this is it
Plum Bob
Short, sleek, modern. A plum bob is dramatic but somehow still totally wearable.
What makes it work:
- Chic and sophisticated
- Straight or wavy, doesn’t matter
- Low maintenance life
Plum with Silver Highlights
Add some shimmer. The silver pieces catch light and make your plum base pop even more.
What makes it work:
- Unique combo
- Special occasion worthy
- Any length works
Short Plum Pixie
Short hair + plum = chef’s kiss. Makes your cut look sharper and way more modern.
What makes it work:
- Bold confidence
- So easy to maintain
- Fresh start energy
Plum with Violet Ends
Drama, anyone? This blend is creative, bold, and guaranteed to turn heads.
What makes it work:
- Artistic vibes
- Long/layered hair looks best
- Festival ready
Plum All Over
Sometimes simple wins. All-over plum is classic, striking, and never goes out of style. It’s basically the ultimate power move.
What makes it work:
- Timeless and bold
- Anyone can wear it
- Always relevant
Plum with Burgundy Lowlights
Add richness with burgundy lowlights. Deep, dimensional, and perfect when the leaves start changing.
What makes it work:
- Warm and deep
- Flatters everyone
- Gorgeous in updos
Plum with Pastel Lavender Highlights
For something softer and more whimsical. The contrast is dreamy—very fairy tale princess meets modern girl.
What makes it work:
- Soft and feminine
- Medium/long hair ideal
- Creative souls, this is you
Plum with Rose Brown Roots
Subtle, romantic, and perfect if you want color without screaming about it. The blend is soft and grows out like a dream.
What makes it work:
- Low maintenance win
- Natural grow-out
- Universally flattering
Final Thoughts: Purple Reign
And there you have it. 21 ways to make plum work for you. Whether you’re ready to go full vampire queen or just want a whisper of purple, there’s something here for everyone. Look—life’s too short for boring hair. Make 2025 the year you actually do the thing. Your most vibrant, confident self is waiting.
