Why Rias Gremory's Hair Means More Than You Think In High School DxD

Besides cosplay fans probably giving anime wig manufacturers a booming customer demand for red tops, Rias' hair is also an instant indicator of her powerful family lineage. In various points in the series, her nickname the "Crimson-Haired Ruin Princess," is mentioned. However, in volume 2 of the light novel series (via Yen Press), she implies that she tires of being known as just that. Yet, it's hard to shake the nickname because the Gremory Clan is one of the highest-ranking devil families that are instantly distinguishable thanks to their crimson-colored hair. Throughout the "High School DxD" anime series, various members of the Gremory family have made an onscreen appearance. This includes Rias' father Zeoticus, her nephew Millicas, and brother Sirzechs Lucifer who all feature the trademark crimson color and show their powerful abilities.

The only Gremory Clan member that doesn't sport the color is Rias' mother Venelana, who came into the family thanks to her marriage with Zeoticus. However, it's thanks to her mother that Rias got her famous nickname in the first place. In the short story compilation of "High School DxD DX. Vol. 1" (via High School DxD Wiki)," Zeoticus compares Rias' power to her mother as "cute." This is because in her prime, thanks to her powerful Bael lineage, Venelana was known as the "Brown-Haired Ruin Princess." It appears that Rias' nickname about her hair is also a homage to her mother. It's clear that hair in the Gremory household plays a massive part in the family as it seems to relate to their power.