Coloring short hair with highlights is the most simple approach to make it edgy and intriguing. Whether you adore your pixie cut or can’t wait for your short crop to grow out, you can add highlights and lowlights to give your new hairstyle depth, tone, and structure. There are countless variations, ranging from standard blonde highlights to bright pink or platinum. If you don’t like them, you can easily color over them, but you’ll probably want to try out a new color every few months.

Blonde ‘lights on a brown base have already become classics, but you may also experiment with less typical combinations, such as blonde and red, brown and blue, teal, rose gold, and golden blonde. More suggestions with illustrations are provided below.

1. A Subtle Take on Chunky Highlights

Chunky highlights, reminiscent of their ’90s heyday, are back in vogue. However, the trend has evolved to embrace a softer, more subtle approach. Rather than starkly defined streaks, today’s chunky highlights offer a gentler, blended look, adding depth and dimension to your hair while maintaining a touch of nostalgia for the iconic styles of the past.

2. Shaggy Bob with Caramel Highlights

Dare to be bold with a shaggy bob adorned with caramel highlights. This dynamic combination injects warmth and vibrancy into brown hair, creating a striking contrast that catches the eye. Whether you’re a brunette or have black locks, these caramel highlights offer a versatile option to elevate your look and make a statement.

3. Punk Rock Perfection

Unleash your inner rebel with a hairstyle that exudes punk rock perfection. Platinum highlights, chunky blue streaks, and contrasting roots come together to create a bold and edgy statement. Embrace your individuality and make a fierce impression with this electrifying hairstyle that pays homage to the rebellious spirit of punk.

4. Blonde on Blonde

Blonde on blonde may seem redundant, but the subtle nuances in shade can transform your look. From platinum to honey blonde, these highlights add depth and dimension to your locks, creating a sun-kissed effect that’s both natural and radiant. Embrace the versatility of blonde highlights to enhance your style and brighten your overall appearance.

5. Dark Hair, Bright ‘Lights

Elevate your look with a bold contrast of dark hair and bright highlights. From deliberate ombre touches to iconic platinum streaks, this hairstyle offers a modern twist on a classic look. Channel your inner Madonna and embrace the timeless allure of dark hair with eye-catching highlights that demand attention.

6. Dark Red Hair with Copper Highlights

Make a bold statement with dark red hair adorned with copper highlights. The rich, vibrant hues add depth and intensity to your locks, creating a striking look that commands attention. Whether you’re a fan of bold colors or prefer a more understated style, this combination of dark red and copper highlights offers a versatile option to suit your individual taste.

7. Chocolate Vanilla Swirl

Indulge your sweet tooth with a hairstyle that’s as delicious as it is stylish. Combining brown highlights with blonde hair creates a swirl of color reminiscent of your favorite ice cream treat. Embrace the unexpected with this playful twist on traditional highlighting techniques and let your hair be the ultimate dessert.

8. An Extreme ’90s Throwback

Take a trip down memory lane with an extreme ’90s throwback hairstyle. Stark contrasts between light brown and blonde highlights capture the essence of the era’s iconic looks, while expert blending ensures a seamless finish. Embrace the nostalgia of the ’90s with a modern twist on classic highlights that’s sure to turn heads.

9. Blonde All Over

Embrace the light side with an all-over blonde look that’s sure to make a statement. From icy platinum to golden hues, these highlights add depth and dimension to your locks, creating a radiant and youthful appearance. Whether you’re a natural brunette or looking to lighten up your locks, blonde highlights offer a versatile option to suit any style.

10. Hair on Fire

Set your hair ablaze with red highlights that add warmth and vibrancy to your locks. Paired with blonde undertones, these highlights create a striking contrast that’s both bold and beautiful. Embrace your fiery side and make a statement with this dynamic hairstyle that’s sure to turn heads wherever you go.

11. Wavy Bob with Subtle Highlights

Elevate your bob with subtle highlights that add movement and dimension to your locks. Careless waves and light strands create a feminine and stylish look that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you have fine hair or are looking to add volume, this wavy bob with subtle highlights is sure to turn heads and make a statement.

12. A Real Rose Gold

Achieve the coveted rose gold look with dynamic highlights that blend yellow blonde with rosy light brown tones. The result is a stunning combination that exudes romance and sophistication. Whether you’re a fan of bold colors or prefer a more subtle approach, this rose gold-inspired hairstyle is sure to capture attention and leave a lasting impression.

13. Red on Black

Make a bold statement with red highlights against a dark black base. Opt for a dark auburn hue with a cherry gleam for a softer and more nuanced look that exudes confidence and allure. Whether you’re a natural brunette or rocking black locks, red highlights offer a versatile option to elevate your style and make a statement.

14. Highlighted Faux Hawk

Channel your inner punk rocker with a highlighted faux hawk that’s sure to command attention. This edgy hairstyle features dark hair with brassy blonde tips for a bold and statement-making look. Whether you’re heading to a concert or just want to stand out from the crowd, this highlighted faux hawk is the perfect choice for those who dare to be different.

15. Fade to Blonde

Transition seamlessly to blonde with beautifully blended highlights that complement darker roots. This low-maintenance style allows for natural root growth, making it perfect for those on the go. Embrace the versatility of blonde highlights and say goodbye to constant touch-ups with this effortlessly chic hairstyle.

16. The Black and White Angel

Embrace drama with platinum highlights on short black hair for a bold and striking look. This dramatic contrast exudes punk rock vibes and is incredibly photogenic, making it perfect for those who love to stand out. Whether you’re heading to a concert or just want to make a statement, this black and white angel-inspired hairstyle is sure to turn heads and leave a lasting impression.

17. Feathered Pixie with Undercut

For those who love extreme short haircuts, a feathered pixie with an undercut is the ultimate option. Choppy texture, contrast transitions, and asymmetrical bangs create an edgy and bold look that’s sure to turn heads. Add strategically placed highlights to accentuate the unique shape and movement of this daring hairstyle.

18. Highlights and Lowlights with an Edge

Turn heads with a mix of dark brown, violet, and chunky highlights in shades of blue-black and purple. This bold and dynamic combination, paired with an edgy cut, creates a masterpiece of hair color that’s as unique as you are. Whether you’re a fan of bold colors or prefer a more subtle approach, this hairstyle is sure to make a statement and leave a lasting impression.

19. A Hint of Red

Add warmth and personality to your short hair with subtle red highlights against a dark base. Whether you’re a natural brunette or rocking black locks, these understated red accents add depth and dimension for a look that’s effortlessly chic and stylish.

20. Sweet Sorbet Streaks

Channel your inner pixie dream girl with a whimsical blend of pink, purple, fuchsia, and orange highlights. Reminiscent of a sweet sorbet sunset, this playful and vibrant hairstyle is the perfect way to showcase your personality and creativity. Embrace your unique style and let your hair be the ultimate canvas for self-expression.