Black hair is effortlessly stunning, but adding highlights can take it to a whole new level. Whether you’re looking for a subtle touch of color or a bold transformation, highlights can enhance your natural beauty, add dimension, and create a mesmerizing effect. From balayage to ombre, soft streaks to bold pops of color, we’ve rounded up 20 dreamy black hairstyles with highlights that will inspire your next salon visit.
1. Caramel Balayage on Curls
Caramel balayage is one of the most popular choices for black hair because of its natural, sun-kissed effect. It blends beautifully into curls, adding warmth and depth without overpowering the hair’s natural beauty. This style is perfect for those who want a soft, romantic look that works for both casual and formal occasions.
Best for: Medium to long curly hair
Styling Tip: Use a curl-enhancing cream to define the curls and make the highlights pop.
2. Honey Blonde Streaks on a Sleek Bob
A sleek black bob with honey-blonde highlights creates a striking contrast that exudes sophistication. This look is sleek, elegant, and perfect for those who love a polished hairstyle.
Best for: Short to medium-length hair
Styling Tip: Use a flat iron for a bone-straight finish and apply a shine serum for a glossy effect.
3. Auburn Ombre on Long Layers
Auburn ombre highlights are the perfect way to add a fiery touch to long black hair. The gradual fade from dark roots to rich auburn tips creates a dramatic yet natural look.
Best for: Long layered hair
Styling Tip: Curl the ends with a large barrel iron for soft waves that showcase the color beautifully.
4. Chunky Blonde Highlights on a Textured Lob
For a bold, retro-inspired look, chunky blonde streaks on a textured lob are a must-try. This style brings back the 90s vibe with a modern twist, making it ideal for fashion-forward women.
Best for: Shoulder-length hair
Styling Tip: Use a texturizing spray to enhance volume and movement.
5. Mahogany Highlights on Natural Curls
Mahogany highlights add warmth and richness to black natural curls, giving them a subtle yet stunning dimension.
Best for: Natural and curly hair
Styling Tip: Use a moisturizing curl cream to prevent frizz and keep curls hydrated.
6. Burgundy Highlights on a Pixie Cut
Burgundy highlights create a bold and edgy contrast against a pixie cut. The deep red tones add vibrancy while keeping the style chic and stylish.
Best for: Short hair
Styling Tip: Apply a lightweight styling wax for definition and texture.
7. Golden Brown Balayage on Loose Waves
Golden brown balayage is perfect for those who want a natural, blended look. This shade adds warmth to black hair while enhancing loose waves.
Best for: Medium to long wavy hair
Styling Tip: Use a curling wand to create soft waves that highlight the color transitions.
8. Copper Highlights on Coily Hair
Copper highlights stand out beautifully on coily hair, adding brightness and energy to the look.
Best for: Coily and kinky textures
Styling Tip: Keep your hair hydrated with a leave-in conditioner to maintain shine.
9. Silver Streaks on a Sleek Ponytail
A sleek black ponytail with silver streaks gives off an ultra-modern and sophisticated vibe.
Best for: Straight or relaxed hair
Styling Tip: Use edge control to create sleek baby hairs for a polished finish.
10. Rose Gold Ombre on Box Braids
Box braids with rose gold ombre tips add a fun and feminine touch to this protective style.
Best for: Braided styles
Styling Tip: Use mousse to set the braids and keep them fresh.
11. Chocolate Brown Highlights on Long Straight Hair
Chocolate brown highlights provide a subtle contrast to black hair, offering a rich and sophisticated look.
Best for: Long, straight hair
Styling Tip: Apply a smoothing serum for a silky finish.
12. Platinum Blonde Face-Framing Highlights
Platinum blonde highlights around the face create a striking contrast that brightens up the complexion.
Best for: Any hair length
Styling Tip: Protect your blonde highlights with a purple shampoo to avoid brassiness.
13. Red Velvet Balayage on Layered Curls
Red velvet balayage adds a sultry, deep red hue to black curls, creating a romantic and bold look.
Best for: Layered curly hair
Styling Tip: Use a curl refresher spray to keep the curls looking fresh.
14. Lavender Highlights on Shoulder-Length Waves
Lavender highlights give black hair a dreamy, pastel touch that’s both whimsical and stylish.
Best for: Wavy and curly hair
Styling Tip: Apply a heat protectant before curling to maintain the vibrancy of the color.
15. Ash Blonde Highlights on a Tapered Cut
A tapered natural cut with ash-blonde highlights creates a cool, edgy effect.
Best for: Short natural hair
Styling Tip: Use a curl sponge to enhance the texture.
16. Teal and Blue Peekaboo Highlights
Teal and blue peekaboo highlights add a playful and vibrant surprise to black hair.
Best for: Any hair type
Styling Tip: Style in a half-up, half-down look to show off the colors.
17. Golden Blonde Ombre on Locs
Golden blonde ombre on locs creates a regal and striking effect.
Best for: Locs
Styling Tip: Use lightweight oils to keep the locs healthy and vibrant.
18. Bronze Highlights on a Curly Fro
Bronze highlights give a curly afro extra dimension and warmth.
Best for: Afro-textured hair
Styling Tip: Use a pick comb for volume.
19. Soft Pink Streaks on Wavy Hair
Soft pink streaks add a fun and trendy touch to black wavy hair.
Best for: Medium to long wavy hair
Styling Tip: Use a color-safe shampoo to keep the pink vibrant.
20. Rainbow Highlights on Straight Hair
A mix of pastel rainbow highlights against black hair creates a whimsical, statement look.
Best for: Straight hair
Styling Tip: Keep hair smooth with a silk wrap at night to maintain the color.
Final Thoughts
Adding highlights to black hair can instantly transform your look, whether you prefer soft, natural tones or bold, vibrant hues. With endless possibilities, you can experiment with different styles and shades to find what best suits your personality and vibe. Don’t forget to pin your favorite look on Pinterest for inspiration!
Which dreamy black hairstyle with highlights is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!