As women age, embracing their natural beauty and finding hairstyles that enhance their features becomes essential. Long hairstyles can add elegance, sophistication, and a youthful touch to your look. Whether you’re attending a formal event, heading to the office, or simply want to refresh your everyday style, these 32 stunning long hairstyles are perfect for women over 40. Let’s dive into the details and explore how each hairstyle can work for different face shapes and personal styles.
1. Demi Moore – Top Knot Bun
Demi Moore has always been a symbol of timeless beauty, and her top knot bun is no exception. This chic hairstyle adds height and structure, making it an excellent choice for those who want to exude confidence and grace. The top knot bun works well for all face shapes, especially if you have a round face, as it elongates your features and draws attention upward.
Why It Works:
- Adds volume at the crown, creating a slimming effect.
- Versatile and suitable for both casual and formal settings.
Pro Tip: Use a smoothing serum or gel to tame flyaways and maintain a polished finish.
2. Kate Hudson – Voluminous Curls with Side Part
Kate Hudson’s voluminous curls with a subtle side part bring a playful yet sophisticated vibe. This hairstyle is perfect for adding a youthful charm while maintaining elegance.
Best For:
- Women with oval or heart-shaped faces.
- Those who want to highlight their cheekbones and eyes.
Styling Tip: Use a curling wand to create soft, bouncy curls. Finish with a lightweight hairspray to hold the curls in place without weighing them down.
3. Sandra Oh – Wavy High Ponytail
Sandra Oh demonstrates how to elevate a classic ponytail with waves and volume. A wavy high ponytail is ideal for formal events or when you want to look polished yet approachable.
Key Features:
- Adds height and elongates the face.
- Perfect for women with square or oblong face shapes.
Quick Tip: Tease the hair at the crown before securing the ponytail for added volume.
4. Naomi Watts – Retro Curls
Step back in time with Naomi Watts’ retro-inspired curls. This vintage hairstyle exudes glamour and works exceptionally well for women with fine or straight hair.
How to Achieve:
- Use hot rollers or a curling iron to create tight curls.
- Set the curls with a strong-hold hairspray for a lasting finish.
Best For:
- Round or oval face shapes.
- Adding a touch of nostalgia to your look.
5. Drew Barrymore – Sleek Half-Updo
Drew Barrymore’s sleek half-updo is a minimalist yet fail-proof option for any occasion. This hairstyle keeps your hair off your face while maintaining a professional appearance.
Why Choose It:
- Works for all face shapes.
- Easy to style and maintain throughout the day.
Pro Tip: Add face-framing highlights to accentuate your features and brighten your complexion.
6. Michelle Yeoh – Simple and Elegant Low Bun
Michelle Yeoh’s low bun with side bangs is the epitome of understated elegance. This hairstyle is perfect for formal gatherings or corporate meetings.
Benefits:
- Keeps your look clean and sophisticated.
- Ideal for women with oval or diamond-shaped faces.
Styling Advice: Secure the bun with bobby pins and use a shine-enhancing serum for a glossy finish.
7. Gabrielle Union – Straight Hair with Middle Parting
Gabrielle Union proves that poker-straight hair with a middle parting can be both modern and flattering. This hairstyle frames the face beautifully and creates a slimming effect.
Perfect For:
- Women with round or square faces.
- Adding a sleek, polished touch to your look.
Enhancement Tip: Incorporate lighter shades at the ends to draw attention downward and elongate your face.
8. Halle Berry – Feathered Bangs with Layered Ends
Halle Berry’s feathered bangs paired with layered ends are a timeless choice for women over 40. This hairstyle softens facial features and adds movement to your locks.
Face Shape Suitability:
- Oval or heart-shaped faces.
- Accentuates the eyes and eyebrows.
Quick Tip: Style the bangs with a side parting and flipped-out ends for a fresh take on this classic look.
9. Helena Bonham Carter – Waves and Tendrils
Helena Bonham Carter’s simple waves with tendrils framing the face are effortlessly chic. This hairstyle is particularly flattering for women with boxy or angular face shapes.
Why It’s Flattering:
- Softens harsh jawlines.
- Adds a romantic, feminine touch.
Pro Tip: Use a flat iron to create loose waves and finish with a texturizing spray for a tousled effect.
10. Jennifer Aniston – Classic Layers with Face-Framing Highlights
Jennifer Aniston’s iconic layered cut with face-framing highlights remains a favorite among women over 40. This hairstyle enhances facial symmetry and adds dimension to your hair.
Best For:
- Round or oval face shapes.
- Creating a balanced and youthful appearance.
Styling Tip: Blow-dry your hair with a round brush to add volume and smoothness.
11. Jennifer Connelly – The Low Bun
Jennifer Connelly’s low bun is a go-to for elegant simplicity. Paired with bold makeup, such as dark red lipstick, this hairstyle makes a statement.
Why It’s Elegant:
- Streamlines your look for formal events.
- Complements women with oval faces.
Pro Tip: Pull out a few strands around the face for a softer, more relaxed vibe.
12. Julia Roberts – The Beehive
Julia Roberts’ beehive hairstyle is a showstopper. The high volume at the crown elongates the face and adds drama to your overall look.
Face Shape Suitability:
- Long or oval faces.
- Draws attention to the eyes and mouth.
Trivia: Pair the beehive with curtain bangs or face-framing layers for a modern twist
13. Marisa Tomei – A Vintage Feel
Marisa Tomei’s slightly wavy blunt hairstyle with a side parting exudes timeless elegance. This retro-inspired look is perfect for women who want to channel vintage glamour while maintaining a modern edge.
Why It Works:
- The side parting accentuates the cheekbones, adding structure to the face.
- Ideal for women with square or oval faces.
Pro Tip: Use a flat iron to smooth out any frizz and finish with a shine-enhancing spray for a polished look.
14. Octavia Spencer – The Side Bun
Octavia Spencer’s low side bun with side-swept bangs is the epitome of sophistication. This hairstyle is particularly flattering for women with round faces, as it elongates the face and draws attention to the eyes.
Key Benefits:
- Slims the face by diverting focus upward.
- Perfect for formal events or professional settings.
Quick Tip: Secure the bun with bobby pins and use a texturizing spray for a soft, tousled effect.
15. Rachel Weisz – The Curly High Pony
Rachel Weisz’s curly high ponytail is a playful yet elegant choice for women over 40. The volume at the crown adds height, while the curls at the ends create a fun, youthful vibe.
Best For:
- Oval or oblong face shapes.
- Adding drama and dimension to your look.
Styling Advice: Use a curling wand to create loose curls and secure the ponytail with a strong elastic band.
16. Sandra Bullock – Side-Swept Hair
Sandra Bullock’s side-swept hairstyle is a masterclass in understated elegance. The side parting and soft curls at the ends draw attention to the lower half of the face, creating a slimming effect.
Why It’s Flattering:
- Adds maturity and grace to your appearance.
- Works well for women with round or square faces.
Enhancement Tip: Add subtle highlights around the face to brighten your complexion and enhance your features.
17. Sofia Vergara – Middle Parting With Waves
Sofia Vergara’s middle-parted waves are both simple and stunning. This hairstyle frames the face beautifully, making it ideal for everyday wear.
Face Shape Suitability:
- Round or oval faces.
- Accentuates the jawline and slims the cheeks.
Pro Tip: Use a curling wand to create loose waves and finish with a lightweight serum for a glossy finish.
18. Taraji P. Henson – Wavy Side-Sweep
Taraji P. Henson’s wavy side-swept hairstyle is bold, confident, and effortlessly chic. The harsh ends add a modern twist, while the waves bring a touch of femininity.
Why It’s Modern:
- Accentuates the eyes and eyebrows.
- Perfect for women with heart-shaped faces.
Styling Tip: Use a volumizing mousse before blow-drying to add body and texture.
19. Tina Fey – The High Bun
Tina Fey’s high bun is a favorite among women over 40 for its simplicity and elegance. This hairstyle adds height and works wonders for those with larger foreheads.
Why It’s Versatile:
- Suitable for all face shapes.
- Easy to style and maintain.
Quick Tip: Tease the hair at the crown before securing the bun for added volume.
20. Toni Collette – Tapered Bangs
Toni Collette’s tapered side bangs are perfect for framing the face and adding length to round, heart-shaped, or square faces. This hairstyle combines practicality with style, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
Why It’s Practical:
- Softens angular features.
- Adds a touch of sophistication.
Pro Tip: Style the bangs with a round brush for a sleek, polished finish.
21. Uma Thurman – Half Ponytail With Side Bangs
Uma Thurman’s half ponytail with side-swept bangs is a simple yet stylish option for any occasion. This hairstyle keeps your hair off your face while maintaining a relaxed vibe.
Why It’s Versatile:
- Works for all face shapes.
- Effortless to recreate at home.
Quick Tip: Add a few face-framing layers to enhance your features.
22. Kelly Hu – Naturally Straight
Kelly Hu’s naturally straight hair is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. If you have straight hair, embrace it and let your natural texture shine.
Best For:
- Slightly round faces.
- Minimal styling effort.
Enhancement Tip: Use a round brush while blow-drying to add volume at the roots.
23. Lucy Liu – All Tied-In Ponytail
Lucy Liu’s mid-height ponytail is a classic choice for women over 40. This hairstyle is sleek, polished, and perfect for professional settings.
Why It’s Professional:
- Keeps your hair off your face.
- Ideal for oblong or oval faces.
Pro Tip: Use a smoothing serum to tame flyaways and achieve a sleek finish.
24. Charlize Theron – Bun With A High Puff
Charlize Theron’s low bun with a high puff is a sophisticated option for women with long faces. The puff at the crown softens the face and adds dimension to the overall look.
Why It’s Elegant:
- Balances sharp facial features.
- Exudes confidence and poise.
Quick Tip: Use a volumizing spray at the roots to create the puff effect.
25. Kate Beckinsale – Flair Waves In A Ponytail
Kate Beckinsale’s flair waves in a ponytail are perfect for women over 40 who want to keep things simple yet stylish. The light curls add volume and frame the face beautifully.
Why It’s Chic:
- Slims the face and enhances facial symmetry.
- Works for all hair textures.
Expert Tip: Tuera A. Jacobs suggests using clip-in extensions or a drawstring ponytail to achieve this look if your hair lacks volume.
26. Lauren Graham – The Pin Up
Lauren Graham’s pin-up hairstyle is a nod to vintage glamour. The small puff at the top adds height and creates a striking silhouette.
Why It’s Glamorous:
- Draws attention to your features.
- Perfect for special occasions.
Pro Tip: Tease the hair at the crown with a fine-tooth comb to create volume.
27. Rebecca Romijn – Face Framing Half Ponytail
Rebecca Romijn’s mismatched parting and face-framing half ponytail are effortlessly chic. The waves and highlights add depth and dimension to her look.
Why It’s Stylish:
- Highlights your facial features.
- Works for all face shapes.
Quick Tip: Use a curling wand to create soft waves and finish with a texturizing spray.
28. Courtney Cox – Layers
Courtney Cox’s layered hairstyle is a godsend for women over 40. The layers frame the face, add volume, and create a feminine, youthful appearance.
Why It’s Youthful:
- Adds movement and bounce to your hair.
- Perfect for all hair types.
Pro Tip: Ask your stylist for long layers to maintain length while adding dimension.
29. Lisa Kudrow – The Bouffant
Lisa Kudrow’s bouffant bun with a side parting is a great option for women with chubby faces or large foreheads. The deep side-swept bangs help narrow the lower half of the face.
Why It’s Flattering:
- Diverts focus from the forehead.
- Adds sophistication to your look.
Quick Tip: Use a volumizing mousse to create the bouffant effect at the crown.
30. Nicole Kidman – Braid It!
Nicole Kidman’s messy braid is a gorgeous choice for women who want to add a touch of bohemian charm to their look. The side parting and upturned hair add volume and accentuate the eyes.
Why It’s Versatile:
- Works for casual and semi-formal settings.
- Adds a playful yet elegant vibe.
Pro Tip: Pull out a few strands around the face for a softer, more relaxed appearance.
31. Jennifer Lopez – Straight Hair With Bangs
Jennifer Lopez’s sleek straight hair with bangs is the epitome of sophistication. The bangs add a youthful touch, while the straight locks frame the face elegantly.
Why It’s Trendy:
- Complements all face shapes.
- Adds a chic and modern edge.
Enhancement Tip: Pair this hairstyle with bold makeup for a glamorous look.
32. Rashida Jones – Blunt With Bangs
Rashida Jones’s blunt haircut with bangs is a modern classic. The bangs frame the face and accentuate her sharp features, making it a go-to for women who want a confident and chic demeanor.
Why It’s Bold:
- Adds definition to your facial structure.
- Perfect for women with angular features.
Pro Tip: Use a flat iron to keep the ends sleek and polished.
Versatile Styling Options
To keep your long hairstyles fresh and dynamic, consider these versatile styling tips:
- Accessories: Add clips, headbands, or scarves to elevate your look for formal occasions.
- Seasonal Changes: Opt for layers in summer for a breezy feel and sleek cuts in winter for warmth and sophistication.
- Day-to-Night Transition: Create a textured braid or half-up style during the day, then let your hair down for an effortless evening vibe.
- Volume Control: Use dry shampoo or teasing techniques to add body and fullness for special events.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right long hairstyle can make a world of difference in how you feel and present yourself. These 32 hairstyles cater to various face shapes, hair textures, and personal preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Remember, the key to looking youthful and confident lies in choosing a style that complements your features and reflects your personality. Experiment with these ideas, and embrace the beauty of aging gracefully!
